California Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

Sacramento, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, along with the California Museum, have announced the 19th class of the California Hall of Fame. The inductees, formally enshrined on March 19, 2026, at the California Museum in Sacramento, represent a diverse group of leaders and luminaries whose achievements embody California’s spirit of resilience and creativity. This year’s class as well highlights Los Angeles as a global hub of culture and innovation.

2026 California Hall of Fame Inductees

• John L. Burton: A lifelong public servant and legislator, Burton was a fierce advocate for civil rights, healthcare and foster youth. He died in September 2025.
• Jamie Lee Curtis: The Hollywood star, with a five-decade career and an Academy Award-winning performance in “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” is also an Emmy and Golden Globe winner and bestselling children’s book author. She was born in Santa Monica and has spent her life in LA.
• Riane Eisler: A pioneering systems scientist, cultural historian, and author of the international bestseller “The Chalice and the Blade,” Eisler has advanced a vision of human rights and caring, sustainable societies that has influenced leaders and movements worldwide.
• Janet Evans: One of the greatest distance swimmers of all time, Evans was the first American woman to win four individual Olympic gold medals in swimming. She currently serves as Chief Athlete Officer for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
• Carl Lewis: Widely regarded as the greatest American track and field athlete, Lewis dominated the sprinting and long jump events in the 1980s and ‘90s, amassing nine gold medals across four Olympic Games.
• Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles: America’s first all-women mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles has been a defining force in the male-dominated genre for over three decades. The ensemble is based in LA.
• Nobuyuki Matsuhisa: Known as “Nobu,” Matsuhisa is a highly influential chef with 40 restaurants spanning five continents, including his first in Beverly Hills.
• Terry McMillan: The acclaimed author wrote successful novels including “Waiting to Exhale” and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”
• Arnold Schwarzenegger: Though he served as the 38th Governor of California, Schwarzenegger is a quintessential Angeleno who built his fame in Venice Beach. The world champion bodybuilder, actor, businessman and philanthropist resides in Brentwood.

“From the State Capitol to Los Angeles, from bestselling books to Olympic triumphs, the inductees of the 19th class of the California Hall of Fame have reshaped our culture and our communities,” said Governor Newsom. “Resilient and innovative, these leaders and luminaries represent the best of the California spirit.”

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom added, “This year’s class embodies the very best of California — creativity, resilience, and a spirit of community. These honorees remind us that innovation and courage flourish when people are lifted up by those around them. With deep ties to Los Angeles — a city whose influence and imagination continue to shape culture worldwide.”

For more details on the California Hall of Fame, visit CaliforniaMuseum.org.