Variety’s Awards Circuit has updated its Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar predictions page, with the latest category commentary dated Sept. 18, 2026 — though, for now, the analysis remains brief: “More to come.”
The update places the adapted screenplay race inside the broader framework of Variety’s awards prediction coverage, which tracks the current standings for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards. The prediction pages are curated by Variety chief awards editor Clayton Davis and are described as a snapshot of the race rather than a reflection of personal preference for any contender.
As presented, the Best Adapted Screenplay page does not yet offer a detailed breakdown of the category’s leading scripts, rankings or campaign momentum. The page includes an image captioned “The Invite,” but the supplied material does not provide additional confirmed details about that title or its position in the race.
Variety notes that its awards forecasts remain fluid, with races subject to change based on buzz, events and formal or informal polling. The outlet says its predictions are updated every Thursday, underscoring that the adapted screenplay contest — like the rest of the awards field — is still in motion ahead of the formal Oscar voting calendar.
Key Oscar Dates Ahead
The update arrives as the Academy’s season timeline begins to come into sharper focus. The Governors Awards are scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 15, when honorary Oscars will be presented to Glenn Close and Ridley Scott.
Preliminary voting for the Oscars shortlist in 12 categories will take place from Dec. 7-11, with the shortlist announcement set for Tuesday, Dec. 15. The eligibility period closes on Dec. 31, 2026.
Nominations voting will run Jan. 11-15, 2027, followed by the official Oscar nominations announcement on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2027.
The 99th Oscars are scheduled for Sunday, March 14, 2027. Conan O’Brien will host the ceremony, which will air live at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.
What Happens Next?
For Best Adapted Screenplay, the immediate question is when fuller category commentary will be added. The current update signals that additional analysis is still forthcoming, while the broader predictions hub continues to track all Oscar categories as the season develops.