Variety has published its annual New Leaders list for 2026, honouring entertainment industry professionals aged 40 and under who have made a significant impact across disciplines such as talent representation, production, programming and strategic partnerships. The list highlights rising figures who provide crucial links between creative ideas and their execution, recognising achievements in signing breakout talent, shepherding hit shows and building award-tipped slates.

– Cara Alpert (Agent, UTA) — signed comedy star Meg Stalter before her breakthrough in "Hacks" and "Oh, Mary!", and represents talents including Fortune Feimster, Leanne Morgan and Veronika Slowikowska.
– Andrea Alvarado (Director, comedy series, Netflix) — has worked on "Grace and Frankie" and "Emily in Paris", and will collaborate with Darren Star on new series "Uncorked".
– Maggie Burkhead (Senior VP of programming, Fifth Season) — oversees more than 60 titles, including Netflix hit "His & Hers" and the upcoming "East of Eden" adaptation starring Florence Pugh.
– Rob Cassandro (Talent agent, Innovative Artists Entertainment) — represents Isa Briones and Maxwell Jenkins, and guided "Pluribus" breakout stars Carlos Manuel Vesga and Samba Schutte.