This is not April Fool’s Day. James L. Brooks, the industry titan behind television series such as “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Taxi,” “The Simpsons,” and films such as “Broadcast News,” has been named the Peabody Award’s first industry icon honor.
Mr. Brooks will receive the award at the 86th Peabody Awards Ceremony on May 31st at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.
“James L. Brooks has shaped the way we understand television as both an art form and a cultural force,” said Peabody Awards Executive Director Jeffrey Jones. “His work combines humor, humanity and sharp social insight that have influenced generations of storytellers. We are honored to recognize his extraordinary achievements with the inaugural Industry Icon Awards.”
Brooks has won three Academy Awards and 21 Emmy Awards for his work over the years. “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Lou Grant” and “The Simpsons” have also won Peabody Awards. His other film work includes “Terms of Endearment” and “As Good as It Gets.” He started Gracie Films in 1986, starting with “The Tracey Ullman Show,” which led to “The Simpsons.” Gröning originally produced it as a “Tracy Ullman” interstitial, then Brooks and Sam Simon developed it into its own series.
Brooks will receive the Career Achievement Award along with actress, producer and podcast host Amy Poehler. Starlin Harjo, creator of “Reservation Dogs,” won the Trailblazer Award. Programmer PBS Kids will receive the institutional award.
Nominees for the 2026 Peabody Awards will be announced on April 7 and April 9, followed by winners later that month.
