Academy Welcomes 529 New Members Including Jenna Ortega and Jacob Elordi

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially expanded its voting body by extending invitations to 529 new members. This latest intake of industry professionals continues a long-term trend of growth for the organization, which now boasts nearly double the membership it held just a decade ago. As the Academy works to evolve its composition, these new members are poised to influence future voting cycles for the prestigious Oscars.

Among the notable figures invited to join this year's class are Jenna Ortega, Jacob Elordi, Teyana Taylor, Josh O'Connor, and Simu Liu. Should all invited individuals accept, the total membership of the film institution will reach 11,319, including 10,338 who are eligible to vote. For context, in 2016, the total membership stood at approximately 6,000, illustrating the organization's significant expansion over the past several years.

Expanding Diversity and Global Representation

This initiative for growth is largely driven by a sustained effort to enhance diversity and inclusivity within the Oscars voting ranks. In 2015, the organization faced intense scrutiny—marked by the #OscarsSoWhite movement—when the composition was reported to be 75% male and 92% white, with all acting nominees being white. Following the addition of the new 529 members, the current breakdown shows the body is 64% male and 75% white. Furthermore, international influence has grown substantially, with members from outside the United States now accounting for 22% of the group.

Regarding the demographics of the new class, 42% are women, 56% come from underrepresented communities, and 53% hail from countries outside the U.S. The organization stated that their selection process remains focused on professional qualifications while prioritizing representation and equity. While the class sizes were once close to 1,000 in previous years, the growth rate has become more controlled in recent times, with 534 members invited last year.

As the institution itself expands, the awards ceremony is also incorporating new elements. The organization recently awarded its first honor for casting and plans to introduce an award for stunt design in 2028. Other entertainment figures invited include Anthony Ramos, Bill Skarsgard, Mia Goth, Jon Bernthal, and Stephen Fry, alongside filmmakers like Josh and Benny Safdie. The industry is already looking toward the 99th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 14, 2027, which will feature Conan O'Brien as the host for his third consecutive year.