The 34 winners of the 2026 Peabody Awards have been announced.
Entertainment and documentary titles had a strong showing with a total of 11 and 10 wins, respectively, in each category. Among networks, HBO earned the most wins with six: three in the documentary category for The Alabama Solution, Pee-wee as Himself and Thoughts and Prayers, and three for the TV series Heated Rivalry, The Pitt and The Rehearsal. Apple TV, Disney+, Hulu, Netflix and PBS all tied in second place with two awards each.
“The winners of the 86th annual Peabody Awards reflect Peabody’s mission to honor storytelling that has the potential to change culture, whether it’s examining the destructive tactics of ICE, viewing terminal illness through a deeply personal lens, or resisting attempts to stifle free speech, we look forward to recognizing and celebrating these winners,” Jeffrey P. Jones, executive director of Peabody, said in a news release.
Winners were chosen by a unanimous vote of 28 jurors from more than 1,000 submissions across television, podcasts/radio and the web in entertainment, news, documentary, arts, children’s/youth, public service, and interactive/immersive programming and media.
The 86th Annual Peabody Awards will be held on May 31 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. As previously announced, special honorees include Amy Poehler, who will be presented with the Peabody Career Achievement Award; Sterlin Harjo, who will receive the Peabody Trailblazer Award; James L. Brooks, who’ll be honored with the Inaugural Industry Icon Award; and PBS Kids, the Industry Award.
The full list of winners follows.
NEWS
“Fault Lines: ‘Kids Under Fire’ and ‘The Disappearance of Dr. Abu Safiya’” (Al Jazeera English)
“Fault Lines” tackles the Gaza conflict in two excellent packages. “Kids Under Fire” follows Dr. Mimi Syed as she advocates for more attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where she treated at least 18 children with gunshots to the head or chest. “The Disappearance of Dr. Abu Safiya” tells the story of another doctor, one who continued to treat patients at a northern Gaza hospital even as the Israeli military forcibly cleared the region and attacked the hospital until he was taken into indefinite custody. He continues to be detained 16 months later amid reports that he’s been subjected to “severe torture,” according to the United Nations.
Al Jazeera English
“Immigration Crackdown” (PBS News Hour)
“PBS News Hour” presented comprehensive and sustained coverage of the Trump administration’s radical changes in U.S. immigration policy, including birthright citizenship, refugee resettlement, asylum procedures, mass deportations, military deployments to U.S. cities, and institutional realignments inside immigration enforcement agencies. The program’s reporting included breaking news coverage as well as deeper historical context, policy analysis, institutional accountability, and real-world impact.
PBS News Hour
“Los Angeles Burning” (ABC News and KABC, Los Angeles)
Reporters from both the local and national ABC News organizations mobilized across Los Angeles for thorough, on-the-scene coverage of the catastrophic fires of January 2025, even as two dozen of the local reporters were evacuated from their own homes and two had homes that burned to the ground. The coverage was crucial to residents trying to decide when to leave and when to return, while continuing coverage highlighted preparedness, environmental justice, infrastructure, and lasting effects.
ABC News and KABC-TV, Los Angeles
“Restrained” (ABC / KMBC 9)
A KMBC 9 investigation revealed that at least 102 individuals across 29 states died or were injured due to the misuse of restraint chairs by law enforcement, often involving excessive force such as beating or tasing restrained inmates, highlighting significant gaps in training and policy. Following the investigation, more than 50 sheriffs in Missouri and Kansas updated their restraint policies, and the National Institute for Jail Operations recommended the content for national training, signaling a push for reform in how restraint systems are managed in correctional facilities.
KMBC 9
“The Rise and Fall of Terrorgram” (PBS)
“The Rise and Fall of Terrorgram” investigates how young people are radicalized by online extremist communities to commit acts of terror, highlighting the dangerous influence of unregulated internet spaces that foster hate and violence. Through compelling interviews and meticulous research, the documentary exposes the methods used by extremists and traces the expansion of the Terrorgram network, revealing the vulnerabilities of youth to online fearmongering rooted in racism, antisemitism, and homophobia.
FRONTLINE (PBS), ProPublica
PODCAST AND RADIO
Divine Intervention
“Divine Intervention” is a ten-part audio documentary that uncovers the radical Catholic left’s resistance during the Vietnam War, highlighting the bold actions of nuns and priests who challenged the FBI and staged the first political sanctuary in centuries. Through the personal stories of activists and intense courtroom battles, host Brendan Patrick Hughes explores themes of faith, rebellion, and the complexities of confronting injustice, ultimately offering a compelling blueprint for modern activism.
Wonder Media Network and iHeart Media
Scam Inc
“Scam Inc” is an eight-part narrative podcast from “The Economist” that uncovers the vast and organized world of online fraud, estimated to generate more than $500 billion annually, rivaling the illegal drug trade. Through meticulous reporting, the series reveals the complex operations behind modern scams, featuring stories of victims and scammers, while prompting global conversations among leaders in technology and policy to address this escalating crisis.
The Economist
When We All Get to Heaven
“When We All Get to Heaven” is a ten-part audio documentary that uncovers the powerful stories preserved in 1,200 cassette tapes from a queer church in San Francisco during the AIDS crisis, highlighting the resilience and creativity of LGBTQ Christians amid loss and isolation. Through a blend of archival recordings and contemporary interviews, the series illustrates how the church became a sanctuary for its community, honoring both their faith and queerness while fostering joy and connection during a time of profound grief.
Eureka Street Productions
DOCUMENTARIES
The Alabama Solution (HBO Max)
In 2019, filmmakers gained rare access to document a revival meeting inside an Alabama prison, leading to a six-year investigation into the state’s deadly prison system, characterized by corruption, violence, and neglect. By communicating with incarcerated activists Robert Earl Council and Melvin Ray, the film exposes systemic issues, including brutal conditions and high mortality rates, while advocating for transparency and justice in a system that often operates in secrecy.
HBO Documentary Films; Hit The Ground Running
Come See Me in the Good Light (Apple TV)
Poet-activist Andrea Gibson and their partner Megan Falley confront Andrea’s incurable ovarian cancer diagnosis as cameras follow them, exploring how this journey deepens their love and appreciation for life. The documentary encourages open conversations about mortality while showcasing the couple’s resilience, humor, and art, ultimately serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and joy.
Apple / Tripod Media / Amplify Pictures / Treat Media / Something Fierce Productions
Mr. Nobody Against Putin (BBC Four)
Following Pavel “Pasha” Talankin, a beloved Russian teacher who is reluctantly pulled into the state propaganda machine amid the invasion of Ukraine, this film documents the troubling transformation of his school and community. As he captures intimate footage of the regime’s militarization of youth and faces increasing danger, Pasha becomes an international whistleblower, ultimately planning a perilous escape from Russia.
Made in Copenhagen in co-production with Pink
No Other Land
Basel Adra, a young Palestinian activist from the Masafer Yatta region, documents the destruction of his community by Israeli forces while he and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham fight against their starkly unequal realities. Their film, created by a Palestinian-Israeli collective during oppressive times, aims to challenge the ongoing expulsion and propose a vision of equality.
Antipode Films
Pee-wee as Himself (HBO Max)
Pee-wee as Himself explores the complex life of Paul Reubens, known as Pee-wee Herman, highlighting his artistic influences and the backlash he faced, particularly after his 1991 arrest. The film captures the emotional struggle between Reubens and the filmmaker over narrative control, ultimately paying tribute to his legacy as a groundbreaking artist while addressing issues of identity, sexuality, and the impact of public perception on personal lives.
HBO Documentary Films presents an Elara & First Love Films Production
Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk
Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk provides an intimate view of life in Gaza through video calls between director Sepideh Farsi and Palestinian photojournalist Fatma Hassona, who captures the struggles and resilience of her generation amid ongoing conflict. Tragically, Fatma and her family were killed by an Israeli airstrike shortly after the film’s selection for the Cannes Film Festival, making it a heartfelt memorial to her life and artistry.
Rêves d’Eau Productions
Southpaw—The Life and Legacy of Jim Abbott (ESPN)
Jim Abbott, born without a right hand, defied the odds to become a celebrated baseball pitcher, achieving fame in the Major Leagues and notably pitching a no-hitter for the New York Yankees in 1993. His journey, marked by struggles with being a reluctant role model, continues to inspire and resonate with disabled and limb-different individuals worldwide, making “Southpaw” a powerful narrative about ingenuity and identity.
ESPN
Thoughts & Prayers (HBO Max)
Thoughts & Prayers explores the normalization of gun violence in America by highlighting the culture and industry that has emerged around survival, including lockdown drills and bulletproof backpacks. The film shifts the focus from traditional narratives of policy and victimhood to the everyday experiences of individuals adapting to a life of constant threat, raising critical questions about whether these safety rituals signify true preparedness or a surrender to violence.
HBO Documentary Films presents a Tony Tina Production
ARTS
Fela Kuti: Fear No Man
Fela Kuti: Fear No Man is a podcast series hosted by Jad Abumrad that explores the life and impact of Fela Kuti through innovative sound design and more than 200 interviews, highlighting the musician’s role in shaping post-colonial Nigeria and the African independence movement. The series intricately weaves personal stories with broader cultural and political narratives, demonstrating the power of art and activism, and has already garnered significant acclaim, making its way into educational curricula.
Audible, Higher Ground, Western Sound and Talkhouse
Sly Lives! (a.k.a. The Burden of Black Genius) (Hulu, Onyx Collective)
This documentary explores the life and legacy of Sly Stone and his groundbreaking band, Sly & the Family Stone, while delving into the broader themes of the pressures and complexities faced by Black artists navigating success. Through interviews with other influential artists, the film highlights the emotional and societal burdens that accompany their achievements, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in celebrating their contributions to music and culture.
MRC, Network Entertainment Inc., Two One Five Entertainment Inc., RadicalMedia, Stardust Films LLC, ID8 Multimedia, Inc., and Sony Music Entertainment
ENTERTAINMENT
Adolescence
Netflix’s limited series Adolescence presents a narrative through four single-take episodes that follow 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper), who is arrested for the murder of his female classmate, revealing the complexities of his crime and its impact on those around him. Praised for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, the series tackles pressing issues such as the “manosphere” and social media influence on the young, prompting widespread discussions about digital safety and the experiences of today’s youth.
Warp Films, Matriarch Productions and Plan B for Netflix
Andor (Disney+)
Lucasfilm’s political thriller series serves as a prequel to the Star Wars film Rogue One, chronicling the transformation of Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) from a cynical bystander to a pivotal rebel hero against the totalitarian Empire, while exploring the personal sacrifices and choices that fuel a revolution. The series emphasizes hope and the power of collective action, providing a nuanced look at both the rebels and the individuals within the Empire, ultimately highlighting the enduring relevance of its themes of oppression and resistance in today’s world.
Lucasfilm Ltd.
Common Side Effects (Adult Swim)
Common Side Effects follows Marshall Cuso (voiced by Dave King), a mushroom expert in Peru who discovers a potentially revolutionary fungus called “the Blue Angel” that could heal various ailments, only to find himself pursued by the DEA and pharmaceutical companies. The series, depicted through hand-drawn animation, explores themes of wellness, corporate greed and personal struggles, emphasizing the potential for collective healing and change in a chaotic world.
Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, and Williams Street
Dying for Sex (FX / Hulu)
This series, based on a true story, explores the life of Molly Kochan (Michelle Williams), a woman living with terminal cancer who navigates her illness and childhood trauma, blending comedy and profound honesty in a way that challenges traditional narratives around death and sexuality. The creators aimed to portray authentically the complexities of living with cancer by consulting experts and individuals with similar experiences, ultimately depicting a life filled with both struggle and healing, while emphasizing the importance of embracing life’s realities rather than conforming to societal expectations.
20th Television
Forever (Netflix)
Netflix’s Forever, adapted from Judy Blume’s novel, reimagines first love through the lens of Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha (Lovie Simone)—two Black high school athletes in 2018 Los Angeles, exploring the pressures of ambition and mental health. The series poignantly addresses the complexities of teenage struggles, particularly through Justin’s undiagnosed ADHD and Keisha’s experience of trauma, emphasizing the importance of unconditional support and the intersection of mental health with race and class in today’s world.
A Netflix Series
Heated Rivalry (HBO Max)
Heated Rivalry follows hockey stars Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) as their secret romance evolves amidst their fierce rivalry in professional hockey, exploring themes of ambition, love, and self-discovery over eight years. As they chase glory on the ice, they grapple with their undeniable feelings for each other, questioning whether they can balance their competitive careers with a powerful, yet vulnerable, love.
Accent Aigu Entertainment in association with Bell Media’s Crave
Jimmy Kimmel Live! (ABC)
For more than 23 years, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has used humor and satire to critique powerful figures and reflect American culture, embracing the responsibility of comedy to reveal truths amid political volatility. The show faced unprecedented challenges as President Trump’s second administration came to power, culminating in a brief suspension by ABC (at the behest of the FCC) that sparked a bipartisan defense of free expression on the airwaves, ultimately reinforcing the importance of satire as a vital form of democratic speech.
20th Television in association with KIMMELOT
Mussolini: Son of the Century (MUBI)
This compelling portrayal of Benito Mussolini (Luca Marinelli)—as he transforms from a socialist journalist to Italy’s ruthless dictator—explores the rise of fascism through a hypermodern lens that emphasizes political manipulation and corruption. Adapted from Antonio Scurati’s novel, the series delves into the darker aspects of Mussolini’s character, illustrating how his toxic masculinity and exploitation of fear led to his ascent, while inviting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of his story in today’s political landscape.
Sky Studios and Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment, a Fremantle group company, in co-production with Pathé, in association with Small Forward Productions, in collaboration with Fremantle, CINECITTÀ S.p.A. and Sky
The Pitt (HBO Max)
The Pitt explores the immense challenges faced by emergency room physicians and nurses in a crumbling American healthcare system. Through gripping narratives, the series highlights issues such as mental health struggles, violence against healthcare workers, and the impact of rising healthcare costs, revealing the dedication of frontline workers as they face down a crisis exacerbated by chronic underfunding and societal neglect.
HBO Max in association with John Wells Productions, R. Scott Gemmill Productions, and Warner Bros. Television
Pluribus (Apple TV)
Carol Sturka (Rhea Seehorn) emerges after a global crisis as one of the few humans immune to a virus that creates a harmonious hive mind, and her story explores profound existential questions about individuality, happiness, and the nature of human connection. As Carol grapples with her personal grief and the loss of her wife, she embarks on a mission to dismantle the collective’s utopia, questioning whether true happiness can exist without the freedom to choose, and what it truly means to be human in a world stripped of conflict and suffering.
Sony Pictures Television in association with Apple
The Rehearsal (HBO Max)
Season 2 of “The Rehearsal” showcases Nathan Fielder’s innovative storytelling, using his “rehearsal” approach to life to make a genuine impact on the aviation community with discussions about communication, training, and mental well-being. The season’s creative approach not only garnered critical acclaim but also contributed to meaningful legislative changes, such as the Mental Health in Aviation Act, highlighting Fielder’s unique ability to blend entertainment with social relevance and public understanding.
HBO in association with Blow Out Productions
CHILDREN’S/YOUTH
Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney+)
Lunella Lafayette (voiced by Diamond White), a genius teen and protector of her New York City neighborhood, takes on the challenges of superhero life alongside her massive partner, Devil Dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore). This animated series combines vibrant visuals and original music to tell relatable coming-of-age stories that emphasize themes of honesty, friendship, and community empowerment, all while ensuring diverse representation through collaboration with organizations dedicated to authenticity.
Flying Bark Productions, Disney Television Animation, Disney Branded Television
INTERACTIVE & IMMERSIVE
Cleared by Fire
Cleared by Fire is an interactive documentary that explores the tragic 2005 Haditha massacre, where U.S. Marines killed 25 civilians, including a grandfather and a young girl, yet no one was held accountable. Using a blend of investigative reporting, 3D reconstructions, and personal narratives, the project allows viewers to engage with multiple perspectives and conflicting accounts surrounding the incident, aiming to restore individuality and humanity to the victims who are often reduced to mere statistics in discussions of war.
The New Yorker
“ICE Sweeps Georgia”
This social video series by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution captures the realities of immigration enforcement in Georgia, a state experiencing significant ICE activity. By employing vertical video and real-time reporting, the series presents deeply reported, character-driven stories that humanize the impact of immigration policies, and has reached nearly 2.8 million views on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“Investigating War Crimes in Gaza”
Al Jazeera’s investigation uncovers war crimes in the Gaza Strip using photos and videos posted by Israeli soldiers on social media, revealing illegal activities such as destruction, looting, and murder. By compiling a vast database of this material and sharing it through impactful social videos, the project has reached millions, providing vital eyewitness testimonies and interactive resources to document the atrocities faced by the people of Gaza.
Al Jazeera English
South of Midnight
South of Midnight is a unique video game that immerses players in the rich, culturally grounded landscapes of the American South, blending magic and realism as they follow Hazel, a heroine on a quest to find the mother she lost to a hurricane. Drawing from Southern Gothic traditions, the game explores themes of history, identity, and resilience, featuring mythical creatures inspired by local folklore, while its dynamic music and audio design enhance the emotional depth of the story, creating an experience that feels both intimate and vividly alive.
Compulsion Games
