From Pac-Man to South Park: The Animation Winners of the 2026 Telly Awards
Skwigly
This season’s Telly Awards celebrated animation in all its forms – from beloved characters returning to screens to brands bringing products to life through stunning visual storytelling. These winners prove that animation isn’t just a medium; it’s a canvas for creativity without limits.
Character-Driven Brilliance
Bodega Virtual brought the nostalgic gaming icon back to life with “Pac-Man 45th Anniversary,” earning recognition for Editing. BUCK captured wanderlust with “Airbnb Experiences – ‘The Grand Adventure‘” in 3D/CG Animation.
Fresh TV continued their legacy with “Total Drama Island,” earning recognition for Directing in a series that proves animated comedy can deliver hilarious storytelling season after season. Meanwhile, Paramount TV Media’s “South Park” took home Comedy honors, reminding us that animation remains one of the most potent vehicles for social commentary and humor.
Animation Innovation
San Juan’s TransPerfect brought athletic excellence to animated life with “2024 Paris Olympic Games,” demonstrating how 3D/CG Animation can capture the energy and emotion of live sports. “Porter: The Journey of Craftsmanship” and AQuest’s “Tailoor | Mind The Balance” showcased how independent animators are pushing the boundaries of branded storytelling through meticulous 3D/CG work.
Animation with Purpose
Cascade PBS proved animation serves missions beyond entertainment with “Viewers Like Me – Cascade PBS,” a Non Profit piece that demonstrated how PBS has built community and connection. Tomakti Studio’s “The Little Things That Moves The World” in 3D/CG Animation found poetry in the everyday, while Gravity Global delivered with “Those who dream of transformative flight, love E2” showcasing innovative Use of Animation.
Castano Group’s “A Full Season” in 3D/CG Animation rounded out television’s animated offerings, proving that whether it’s a 30-second spot or a full series, animation captures attention and holds it.
From gaming nostalgia to holiday campaigns, from Olympic glory to environmental messaging, these winners show that animation remains one of the most versatile and visually stunning forms of storytelling – limited only by imagination.