Variety is bringing its acclaimed Sports & Entertainment franchise to New York City in its first-ever interview studio featuring conversations with the voices shaping the future of the sports and entertainment business on July 16.
From elite athletes and team owners to marketers, media executives and streaming leaders redefining how sports content is created, distributed and consumed, the studio will bring together the industry’s most influential voices for six conversations exploring the future of sports storytelling, fandom and culture.
Off a historic 2026 NBA championship title, Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks will speak with Kristin Lemkau, CEO of J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, about the importance of financial education for athletes and Brunson’s role in inspiring the next generation as member of the JPMorganChase Athlete Council.
“Sports and entertainment have become increasingly interconnected, influencing culture in profound and lasting ways,” said Dea Lawrence, co-president and publisher of Variety. “We’re thrilled to launch this new interview studio in New York as a premier destination for insightful conversations with the athletes, creators, executives and storytellers shaping the future of this dynamic intersection.”
Conversations will also feature Jay Williams, ESPN personality, entrepreneur and investor; Russell Wilson, Super Bowl champion quarterback, entrepreneur and sports owner; Jimmie Johnson, seven-time Nascar Cup champion and team owner, Legacy Motor Club; Kristyn Cook, EVP and Chief Agency, Marketing and Sales Officer at State Farm; and Carolyn Braff, VP Sports and Entertainment, PepsiCo.
Dani Cushion, Chief Marketing Officer, Teads, will speak about the changing ways fans watch and interact with sports and the new opportunities emerging for brands to capture attention and drive meaningful impact.
With the high-spirited and kinetic backdrop of New York City, Variety’s curated interview studio will spotlight those at the forefront of the conversation in the converging world of sports, entertainment, and streaming.
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