The following women have been recognized as some of the most influential in media and entertainment for 2026:
: Named a 2026 TIME Woman of the Year for her revelatory performances and leadership in the creative arts. The following women have been recognized as some
: A 2026 BAFTA Fellow and top executive who oversees both film and television divisions at a major studio, shaping beloved global franchises. only are women
Despite the visibility of top leaders, structural challenges remain. In the news sector, only are women, even though they make up a larger share of the working journalist population. Additionally, women are roughly 7% less likely to use the internet than men globally, a "digital gender gap" that impacts content reach in rural and developing areas. The following women have been recognized as some