With 2026’s awards season well and truly underway, researchers from Northerner have revealed the strange and surprisingly strict rules stars will have to follow this year. From drinking to acceptance speeches, there’s a long list of both official and unspoken rules that can catch celebs out.
Limits on alcohol and no smoking
While there’s famously no limit on the alcohol available at the Oscars, the Grammys is a different story. Performers attending the Grammys award shows are strictly forbidden from consuming alcohol. There is zero tolerance for drinking before or during the show, although it’s doubtful that celebrities will be breathalised to ensure this rule is followed!
Smoking is also prohibited outside of designated outdoor smoking areas, which might be one of the reasons why celebs like Josh Brolin opt for nicotine pouches. Shockingly, A-list actor Sean Penn was caught smoking a cigarette at the Golden Globes earlier this year, which, of course, is banned indoors. He was even pictured next to Leonardo DiCaprio with an ashtray at his table; Leo himself had been papped previously vaping at his table.
Stay in your lane
It might not be obvious to viewers, but celebrities actually have lanes for photography based on their status. A-list celebs get separate lanes that give photographers the best access for photos, while lesser-known stars get funnelled off to the side. Photographers will also require non-famous people to step away from their famous dates, and they do so by reportedly using the polite phrase “can we get a fashion?” which is supposedly well known to mean “get out of the shot.”
Rules for seat fillers: Seen not heard
Seat fillers are responsible for holding seats for guests when they mingle at the bar or go for a toilet break. It’s the seat fillers that help keep the audience full and free of gaps for the television audience at home. Seat fillers have to arrive hours before the show (as early as 10 am) and stick to a strict dress code, including wearing a badge that lets staff know they are working as a seat filler. They are also advised not to speak unless spoken to, so grabbing a sneaky selfie with your favourite actor is definitely a no-go!
45 seconds to make your speech
There are also surprising limits on acceptance speeches. In 2010, the amount of time recipients had to make their speech was reduced to just 45 seconds, and this includes the amount of time it takes to get from your seat to the stage! Stars are also banned from swearing, any form of violence, or discussing ‘controversial’ topics. More than one star has been banned for breaking these rules, including Will Smith, who received a ten-year ban for slapping Chris Rock, and Richard Gere, who received a 30-year ban for ‘off-script’ comments on politics in China.
No Movement During Live Segments
Celebrities who step out of the main hall during a live presentation, whether for a drink or a bathroom break, are prevented from immediately re-entering the audience due to a strict “no-movement” policy, with their seats temporarily filled by seat fillers. This rule was evident at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards. While Snoop Dogg presented, Leonardo DiCaprio was stopped by security when he tried to return to his seat, forcing him to wait on the side of the ballroom. He was joined by Selena Gomez and Chase Sui Wonders, who also had to remain outside the audience until the broadcast switched to an advert break.
