Hollywood’s Rising Power Players: The Next-Gen Executives Shaping 2025’s Film & TV Slate

The Hollywood industry is witnessing a significant generational shift. A new list from The Hollywood Reporter spotlights the rising executives under 35 who are now steering major projects. These young professionals are making key decisions at top studios, agencies, and production companies.

Their work is defining the upcoming slate of films and series. From blockbuster franchises to acclaimed indie dramas, their influence is growing rapidly. This marks a pivotal moment for the entertainment business.

Diverse Paths to Power in Modern Hollywood

The backgrounds of these new leaders are remarkably diverse. According to The Hollywood Reporter’s 2025 feature, many took unconventional routes to their current roles. Vilma Castaneda, a 33-year-old film exec at A24, previously curated multimedia installations at the Guggenheim museum.

Another standout is Ben Brown, 30, Head of Scripted TV and Film at Peyton Manning‘s Omaha Productions. He is expanding the company’s slate, including the Glen Powell Hulu comedy Chad Powers. Over at Vertigo, 35-year-old senior VP Andrew Childs shepherds major horror projects like a Night of the Living Dead revival for Amazon.

These executives are managing massive budgets and A-list talent. James Flannery, a 30-year-old director at Netflix, oversees drama series like the upcoming adaptations of Harlan Coben and Dan Brown novels. They are proving that age is no barrier to handling high-stakes creative and financial responsibilities.

Spotting Talent and Defining the Cultural Zeitgeist

A key strength of this new cohort is an eye for undiscovered talent. Manager Aaron Folbe, 32, discovered YouTuber Curry Barker and helped sell his horror film Obsession to Focus Features for nearly $15 million. Similarly, producer Alex Coco, 35, has moved from winning an Oscar with Sean Baker’s Anora to producing a feature debut for director Jordan Firstman.

Their tastes are directly shaping what audiences will watch next. At Apple TV+, Mikaela Burton, 32, helps steer shows like Shrinking and the upcoming Margo’s Got Money Troubles adaptation. Meanwhile, United Artists executive Olivia Heighten, 34, is working on major tentpoles like Jerry Bruckheimer’s F1 and a Highlander reboot.

This generation is blending art with commerce seamlessly. They champion original voices while navigating the demands of global franchises and streaming algorithms. Their work ensures a dynamic future for both film and television.

The ascent of these Hollywood rising executives under 35 signals a vibrant and transformative era for the industry. Their collective vision is now the driving force behind tomorrow’s hits.

Thought you’d like to know

Who are some of the rising executives featured?

The list includes Ben Brown at Omaha Productions, Mikaela Burton at Apple TV+, and Vilma Castaneda at A24. It also highlights managers like Aaron Folbe and agents like Jenna Gates at UTA who guide top talent.

Why is this group considered important for Hollywood?

These executives under 35 are greenlighting projects and managing major slates at influential companies. They control significant budgets and are responsible for discovering the next generation of hit shows and films.

What kind of projects are they working on?

Their projects range from big-budget blockbusters like the *F1* movie to indie award contenders like *Sing Sing*. They are also deep in streaming, managing series for Netflix, Hulu, and Apple TV+.

How did many of them start their careers?

Many began in agency mailrooms or as assistants. Others came from unrelated fields like museum curation or digital media before finding their way into development, production, and management roles in Hollywood.

What defines their approach to the industry?

They are known for championing original storytellers and leveraging new platforms. They combine a passion for distinctive content with sharp commercial instincts for franchise and IP development.