Variety’s Inaugural Power of Women London: Honorees and Presenters Announced

Variety is set to host its inaugural Power of Women London event on June 3, celebrating a group of influential figures who have made significant impacts in both the entertainment industry and their philanthropic endeavors. The event, held in partnership with A+E Global Media’s Lifetime, will spotlight five honorees, each of whom will be featured on a dedicated cover of the magazine’s accompanying issue.

Event Details and Hosting

The ceremony will be hosted by Ania Magliano, a stand-up comedian and cast member of “Saturday Night Live UK” who is also known for her work as an anchor on the show’s “Weekend Update” segment. As part of the weeklong programming for SXSW London, for which Variety serves as an official media partner, the event aims to highlight the intersection of creative influence and social advocacy.

The 2026 Honorees and Their Presenters

This year’s honorees represent a diverse array of talent, paired with prominent figures from the film and theater industries who will serve as presenters:

• Emilia Clarke: Best known for her role in “Game of Thrones,” Clarke is being honored for her work with SameYou, a charity dedicated to brain injury recovery. She will be introduced by director Thea Sharrock.
• Emma Corrin: Recognized for their portrayal of Diana, Princess of Wales in “The Crown,” Corrin is the first non-binary honoree to be featured in the Power of Women series. They are being recognized for their advocacy with War Child and will be presented by actor Josh O’Connor.
• Cynthia Erivo: An award-winning performer with accolades across film, television, and theater, Erivo is highlighting The Shameless Fund, which supports LGBTQ+ causes. Edward Enninful OBE will present the honor.
• Hannah Waddingham: The “Ted Lasso” star and upcoming “SNL UK” host is representing Make-A-Wish UK. She will be presented by actor Tom Francis.
• Suki Waterhouse: The indie pop artist, who is preparing for the release of her album “Loveland” and a subsequent tour, is being honored for her support of Facing the World, a foundation that assists children with facial disfigurement. She will be introduced by filmmaker Sam Taylor-Johnson.

Industry Impact and Recognition

Beyond the individual honorees, the event will serve as the backdrop for the release of Variety’s Women’s Impact Report: London. This report identifies and recognizes the most influential women currently shaping the U.K. Media and entertainment landscape. All individuals named to the Impact List have been invited to attend the June 3 ceremony.

The event is supported by Lifetime, which serves as the presenting partner. Trinny London will provide curated gift bags for all attendees and honorees, featuring a selection of the brand’s makeup and skincare products.

Key Takeaways

• Inaugural Milestone: This marks the first time the Power of Women event series is held in London.
• Philanthropic Focus: Each honoree is paired with a specific charity or foundation, emphasizing the intersection of celebrity and social impact.
• Strategic Partnership: The event is integrated into the broader schedule of the inaugural SXSW London festival.

As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, events like Power of Women London highlight the growing importance of using creative platforms to drive meaningful social change. By bridging the gap between high-profile performances and grassroots advocacy, the ceremony underscores the influence that today’s leading figures wield in shaping public discourse.