“NATPE Global remains North America’s largest and most important gathering for the global content community, and NATPE Honors celebrates the leaders and innovators shaping the future of the entertainment industry,” said EVP, Executive Director, NATPE Global Executive Director Claire Macdonald. “This year’s cohort features some of the boldest, most creative, and influential names in the business today.”
The 2026 NATPE Honors award recipients are:
North Star Award: Recognizing career achievements and leadership that have set new industry standards during times of change.
Kristin Dolan (Chief Executive Officer, AMC Networks), honored for leading AMC Networks’ evolution from a traditional cable business into a global, streaming- and technology-focused content company driven by premium storytelling and innovative partnerships.
Shift Disturber Award: Honoring leaders whose bold vision is driving transformative change across the industry.
Sean Cohan (President, Bell Media), recognized for his leadership in transforming Bell Media into a globally distinctive media company, producer, and streamer through strategic partnerships.
İzzet Pinto (Founder and CEO, Global Agency), recognized for reshaping global distribution by championing regional storytelling, building East–West pathways, and launching internationally successful formats.
Cause + Action Award: Celebrating purpose-driven leadership and impact through social good.
Wendy McMahon (Former President and CEO, CBS News and Stations, CBS Media Ventures, and The Walt Disney Company), recognized for championing journalistic integrity and advancing local and network news through innovation, community-focused reporting, and new independent journalism models.
New Establishment Award: Recognizing emerging leaders whose ideas and creative work are redefining the future of the industry.
Courtney Mock (SVP, Scripted Television Development, Lionsgate), honored for identifying and delivering audience-driven content, from original hits (The Studio, The Hunting Wives) to high-profile IP (Midnight Sun, Oldboy).
Honorees Sean Cohan, Kristin Dolan, and Wendy McMahon will also appear on the NATPE Global conference stage for keynote conversations.
Chief Content Officer Mary Maddever said, “this year’s NATPE Honors recipients reflect the spirit of transformation that underscores the 2026 theme of Convergence.” NATPE Global will bring together established media leaders and emerging collaborators—from brands to creators—to explore how new partnerships are shaping the future of the industry.
NATPE Global 2026 will welcome more than 300 confirmed buyers and feature an expanded program slate, including a newly launched Scripted strand highlighting premium drama and narrative content. The week will begin with the co-located Realscreen Summit, bringing together leading voices in unscripted content. Featured keynote speakers include Fox Television Network President Michael Thorn, All3Media CEO Jane Turton, and Anaïs Baker, Head of International Formats at Amazon MGM Studios.
