Variety’s 2026 NYC Power List Highlights Mamdani, Knicks, and Media Shifts

Key points

• Mayor Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji are recognized as the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of NYC, noted for their high popularity and national media attention.
• The New York Knicks’ starting five, led by Jalen Brunson, are featured for winning the NBA title, the city’s first in 53 years, which united the city and drew over 2 million people to the victory parade.
• Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway are highlighted for their roles in 'The Odyssey,' which is nearing $2 billion in worldwide grosses, and Hathaway’s upcoming projects including 'Verity' and a potential adaptation of the novel 'Yesteryear.'
• Media leadership changes are noted, including Bari Weiss and Tom Cibrowski’s efforts to rebrand CBS News as more MAGA-friendly, and Mark Thompson’s tenure as CNN CEO amid Warner Bros. Discovery’s ownership.
• The list includes cultural figures like Spike Lee, Robert De Niro, and Greta Gerwig, as well as sports figures like Roger Goodell and James Dolan, reflecting broad influence across politics, sports, and entertainment.

Background

This list follows recent developments in NYC politics and culture, such as Mamdani’s push for affordability and his efforts to make major events like the U.S. Open accessible to residents. It also coincides with Matt Damon’s recent film activities, including his work on 'The Odyssey' and a new sci-fi project with the Daniels. The media landscape in NYC has seen significant shifts, with changes in leadership at major networks and the impact of political figures on media content.

Why it matters

The list provides a snapshot of the individuals and entities driving New York City’s cultural and political influence in 2026. It highlights the intersection of politics, sports, and media, showing how figures like Mamdani and the Knicks have shaped public discourse and unity in the city. The media changes reflect broader trends in news consumption and political alignment, impacting how information is disseminated and consumed in the city.

What to watch

Watch for the impact of Mamdani’s policies on NYC affordability and media, the continued success of the Knicks and their cultural influence, and the outcomes of media leadership changes at major networks. Also, monitor the release of new projects by figures like Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway, and the potential effects of the Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition on media ownership and content.