Variety500 Entertainment Leaders and Icons
Intro
Intro

What is Variety500?

Welcome to the sixth annual edition of Variety500, an index of the 500 most influential business leaders shaping the global media industry.

Updated Dec. 28, 2022, the Variety500 reflects the accomplishments of its members over the previous 12 months. They were selected by the Variety editorial board, which conducted extensive research for its selections.

For more on our internal selection process, you can view a full rundown here.

Spotlight

The Walt Disney Company

Robert Iger

CEO

He cut his stint as investor and con­sultant short to once again run the company he turned into a powerhouse.

Beyoncé

For almost a decade, the element of surprise has been her pet marketing tool. 

Lightstorm Entertainment

James Cameron

This consummate cinema elder statesman has at last unveiled the follow-up to his top-grossing film. 

Kim Kardashian

Arguably the world’s most famous woman, she remains in the headlines while growing her staggering wealth.

Bad Bunny

It’s not enough to say he was the top draw among Latin artists this year, as no artist had a bigger 2022. 

Paramount Global

Shari Redstone

Chairman

She’s emerged from her late father’s shadow to control and transform her family’s shiniest asset.

Tyler Perry Studios

Tyler Perry

Principal

After building an empire with his prolific comedic film and TV output, he’s taken a dramatic turn as an auteur.

Michelle Yeoh

She’s an incredible talent who is finally getting the acknowledgement she deserves.

Sian Heder

The onetime actor became the first filmmaker to score a best picture Oscar win for a streaming service. 

S.S. Rajamouli

This director has raised the bar for Indian films, in terms of both scale and box-office success. 

Robert Iger
Beyoncé
James Cameron
Kim Kardashian
Bad Bunny
Shari Redstone
Tyler Perry
Michelle Yeoh
Sian Heder
S.S. Rajamouli