The Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress is an annual award presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). It recognizes an actress who has delivered an outstanding performance in a supporting role in a film released during the previous calendar year. The award is part of the Academy Awards ceremony, commonly known as the Oscars. Since its inception in 1936, the award has celebrated numerous talented actresses, contributing to the recognition of their vital roles in storytelling. Nominees are selected by members of the Academy, and the winner is determined through a voting process among the members.