Variety has announced the lineup for its 2026 Power of Women event, taking place on 23 September in Beverly Hills in partnership with Lifetime. The event honours accomplished women in the entertainment industry and celebrates four main honourees who will appear on the cover of Variety's special issue, alongside profiles in the annual Women's Impact Report highlighting industry leaders.

The four principal honourees—Jennifer Hudson, Pearlena Igbokwe, Melissa McCarthy and Sharon Stone—will be presented by high-profile figures including Channing Dungey (CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group), Queen Latifah, Lauren Graham and Marc Maron. The event also recognises additional awardees: Paige DeSorbo receives the Variety Courage Award for her advocacy supporting abuse survivors, Issa Rae is honoured with the Entertainment Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and "The Jennifer Hudson Show" receives the Changemaker Award for amplifying diverse voices and fostering meaningful conversations.