Jennifer Todd named producer of 2026 Governors Awards
The Academy has tapped Memento producer Jennifer Todd to lead the 17th Governors Awards on Nov. 15, 2026, succeeding Jennifer Fox after seven years. It is Todd's first time producing the honorary Oscar ceremony, which will honor Glenn Close, Ridley Scott, Floyd Norman, and Thalberg winners Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler.
When the academy taps 8216memento8217 producer Jennifer Todd for the Governors Awards, she takes over an event Fox led for seven years. Todd is a former governor of the Academy's Producers Branch and now steps into the producer role for the first time.
Key Takeaways
- Jennifer Todd will produce the 17th Governors Awards on Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood.
- She replaces Jennifer Fox, who produced the event for seven years.
- Honorary Oscars go to Glenn Close, Ridley Scott, and Floyd Norman; Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler receive the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award.
- Todd previously co-produced the 89th and 90th Oscars with Michael De Luca, both Emmy-nominated telecasts.
- The ceremony is presented in partnership with Rolex.
Why did the Academy choose Jennifer Todd?
Howell Taylor said the organization is thrilled to have Jennifer leading this year's Governors Awards. Her producing expertise will undoubtedly create a beautiful evening celebrating the artistry of this year's exceptional honorees, Taylor added.
Over the last 30 years, Todd has produced a wide range of films, among them Christopher Nolan's breakthrough feature Memento, which earned two Oscar nominations. Her credits also include Boiler Room, Must Love Dogs, Prime, Across the Universe, Alice in Wonderland, Celeste and Jesse Forever, and the Austin Powers franchise.
Who is being honored at the 2026 Governors Awards?
Honorary Oscars will be presented to actor Glenn Close, director Ridley Scott, and animator Floyd Norman. Producers Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler will receive the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award.
According to Variety, the Honorary Award is given to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or outstanding service to the Academy. The Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award is presented to a creative producer whose body of work reflects a consistently high quality of motion picture production.
What experience does Todd bring to the role?
Although this is her first time producing the Governors Awards, Todd is no stranger to the Academy's marquee broadcast. She co-produced the 89th and 90th Oscars alongside producer Michael De Luca.
Both telecasts were nominated for outstanding special class program and outstanding variety special (live) at the 69th and 70th Emmy Awards, respectively. Todd said she is delighted to have the opportunity to produce this cherished Academy event and looks forward to honoring the remarkable achievements of five artists with a tribute that reflects the lasting cultural impact they have made. For more awards-season updates, see our Streaming & TV Alerts coverage.
When and where will the ceremony take place?
The ceremony is set to take place Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood, in partnership with Rolex. Todd replaces Jennifer Fox as producer of the 17th edition of the Governors Awards.
The 2026 event will present Honorary Oscars to Close, Scott, and Norman, while Vachon and Koffler accept the Thalberg Memorial Award.