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The foremost personalities in Hollywood are congregating for the 2026 Screen Actors Guild Awards, now known as the Actor Awards presented by SAG-AFTRA. With the event soon to commence, many spectators are also thinking back to the previous year’s master of ceremonies, Kristen Bell, who presided over the 2025 festivities.
This year’s candidates shine a light on prominent works such as One Battle After Another — which is in the lead among movies with seven nominations — as well as remarkable acting in Hamnet, Sinners, Marty Supreme and well-known television programs including The Studio, The White Lotus and Adolescence.
From the cause for the event’s title change to the nominated individuals and viewing details, here’s all the essential information about the 2026 Actor Awards.
Why Are the SAG Awards Called the Actor Awards?
Commencing with the 2026 presentation, the Screen Actors Guild Awards have officially been rechristened as the Actor Awards presented by SAG-AFTRA. This alteration brings the show’s name in accordance with its acclaimed statuette, The Actor, and highlights the event’s specific position as the singular major industry honors decided solely by fellow artists.
When declaring the renaming prior to the 32nd yearly event, the coordinators clarified that the updated designation more accurately communicates the show’s “authentic essence and status as the one industry distinction conferred upon actors, by actors.” The name The Actor Awards originates from the statue itself and, as the organization indicated, commemorates “the impact of human expression.”
Who Is Hosting the 2026 SAG Actor Awards?
For the 2026 event, Bell will be returning as the host. This will be her third turn to spearhead the show, following her prior hosting roles in 2018 and again in 2025.
What Channel Are the 2026 SAG Actor Awards On?
The 2026 Actor Awards will be broadcast live and exclusively on Netflix. This is a component of a long-term collaboration with the streaming platform, with the telecast commencing at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
Can You Watch the 2026 SAG Actor Awards for Free?
No — this event is exclusively accessible via Netflix, so a subscription is needed to view the show in real time. There isn’t a traditional television showing or free online transmission linked particularly with the occasion.
In the US, Netflix’s packages currently begin at $7.99 per month for the tier that includes ads, whereas the Standard ad-free option is $17.99 monthly, and the Premium choice is $24.99 each month. These prices might fluctuate marginally based on area, though viewers will require a current, paid subscription to observe the 2026 Actor Awards.