The Hollywood Reporter’s editor-in-chief says the publication has received major industry recognition while pursuing a more news-focused and ambitious editorial strategy. The letter argues that the awards matter because they indicate that THR’s journalism is reaching readers during a difficult period for both Hollywood and digital media.

THR won 44 prizes at the Southern California Journalism Awards, including 20 first-place awards, reportedly more than any other publication. Individual honours went to journalists including Gary Baum, Seth Abramovitch, David Rooney and Scott Feinberg; THR also won best website, while its video work and cover art were recognised. The publication says it has grown its audience in six months of 2026 despite declines in social-media and search traffic, and plans new video, podcast and newsletter projects.