François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, along with Iris Knobloch, President of the Festival de Cannes, and Thierry Frémaux, Director of the Festival de Cannes, will bestow the esteemed 2024 Women In Motion Award upon Dame Donna Langley, Chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group and Chief Content Officer. The official presentation will take place during the Women In Motion dinner in Cannes on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
The award honors Langley's exceptional career marked by unwavering leadership and a commitment to fostering inclusivity within the film industry, both on and off-screen. Langley's influence extends globally, earning recognition for her role in shaping culturally significant films that amplify diverse voices. Over nearly two decades, she has championed storytelling that reflects the multifaceted world we live in, challenging Hollywood's norms and advocating for inclusive casting and hiring practices.
Langley's impact transcends her executive role, as she actively supports initiatives promoting women's empowerment and inclusion. Her strategic leadership has not only revolutionized distribution models but also paved the way for increased visibility of underrepresented narratives worldwide.
A trailblazer in her own right, Langley is the first British female to helm a major Hollywood studio, earning her the prestigious Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the Queen’s 2020 New Year’s Honour List. This accolade recognizes her contributions to popular culture and her dedication to expanding opportunities for women and people of color in the entertainment industry.
Since its inception in 2015, the Women In Motion initiative has celebrated the creative achievements of women in culture and the arts, reshaping societal perspectives. Langley joins an illustrious list of past recipients, including Jane Fonda, Geena Davis, and Viola Davis, among others.
In acknowledgment of Langley's significant contributions, Pinault, Knobloch, and Frémaux commend her tireless efforts to dismantle gender barriers and promote diversity, affirming the collective commitment to a more equitable and inclusive film industry. Langley's leadership exemplifies the spirit of Women In Motion, driving positive change and inspiring future generations.
