Entertainment
Women in Entertainment to Host 2025 Summit in Los Angeles on June 17

Women in Entertainment has confirmed that it will hold its eighth annual summit on June 17, 2025, at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, California. This one-day event will bring together well-known voices from the entertainment industry to discuss current trends and the future of media.
The summit will include a full schedule of panel talks, fireside chats, and interactive discussions. The event is designed to support and highlight women in media, film, television, digital content, and new technology. It aims to give women space to share ideas, connect, and lead important conversations in the entertainment world.
The speaker lineup for the 2025 summit is impressive. Among those scheduled to appear are Kathy Bates and Jennie Snyder Urman, both connected to the TV series Matlock. They will be joined by Erin and Sara Foster, creators of the show Nobody Wants This. Sheila Ducksworth, who leads the CBS Studios and NAACP Venture, is also taking part. Nikki Toscano, co-creator and executive producer of Long Bright River, will bring her insights to the event. Lisa Taddeo, known for creating Three Women, is another major name on the list. The president of STARZ Networks, Alison Hoffman, will also attend.
Other speakers include Diana Dapito from Audible, Ashley Williams from Hallmark’s Make Her Mark directing program, and Laurel Duquette from Snap Inc. Sarah Malkin of Meta’s Reality Labs, Candissa Williamson from Hartbeat, and Leslie Koch of TelevisaUnivision are also part of the lineup. From the unscripted television world, Sara Rea of Hello Sunshine and FredAnthony Smith of SMAC Entertainment will speak. Candice Lim from Slate Magazine and Jessica Lee Gagné, a director on the series Severance, are also among the participants. John Mass from Content Partners and Tobias Queisser, CEO of Cinelytic, round out the diverse list.
The summit will focus on many key topics. One major theme is how the economics of content creation are changing. Speakers will explore how streaming platforms, ad-supported models, and digital-first approaches are affecting budgets and success. Another topic is the growing power of niche platforms. Today, audiences are no longer tied to major studios or traditional channels. Instead, they seek content that speaks directly to them. This shift is giving rise to smaller but more loyal fan bases.
Genre trends are another subject of discussion. What kinds of stories are gaining popularity? How do audience tastes change in response to real-world issues? The summit will look at how creators respond to new trends, such as the rise of true crime, limited series, and interactive formats. The role of technology will also be a central part of the conversation. From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, new tools are opening fresh ways to tell stories. Speakers will share how they are using these tools while still focusing on human connection and meaningful storytelling.
Another important part of the summit will be discussions about gender equity and leadership. The entertainment industry has made progress in promoting women to top roles, but there is still more work to do. The summit aims to inspire more women to take charge of their creative work, manage teams, and build careers on their terms.
Women in Entertainment started with the goal of increasing visibility for women in media. Over the years, it has become a trusted platform where leaders, creators, and newcomers can share resources and make change happen. Events like this summit help build a more balanced and inclusive industry.
This year’s event will not only feature experienced professionals but also offer young talents the chance to learn and connect. Attendees can expect to walk away with fresh ideas, strong contacts, and a better understanding of the challenges and chances in entertainment today.
The Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles provides a fitting backdrop for this important event. Known for hosting events that spark dialogue and inspire change, the venue matches the mission of Women in Entertainment. With easy access, a beautiful setting, and space for large crowds, it is the perfect place to gather professionals from across the entertainment world.
As June 17 approaches, excitement for the summit continues to grow. Many in the industry see it as a key event that brings together talent, vision, and leadership. For those looking to understand where entertainment is headed and who is shaping its future, the 2025 Women in Entertainment Summit will be a date to remember.