Iris Knobloch reappointed as President of the Festival de Cannes

The Board of Directors has unanimously re-elected Iris Knobloch as President of the Festival de Cannes for a second three-year term. This new mandate, beginning in July 2025, will cover the 2026, 2027 and 2028 editions. This decision reflects a renewed vote of confidence in her leadership, acknowledging her achievements, ensuring stability, and enabling the continuation of the Festival’s strategic initiatives.

Iris Knobloch expressed her gratitude to the Board of Directors: “I am profoundly honored to once again receive the trust of our Board of Directors. I take great pride in the success of the past two editions and I am excited to continue this journey alongside our General Delegate Thierry Frémaux and our dedicated teams in the years to come. Together, we will continue working hand in hand to nurture and enhance this magnificent Festival, a unique platform where all films, voices, and talent find their place.

Safeguarding the Festival’s artistic excellence, championing creative freedom and upholding the Festival’s humanistic values will be the priorities guiding my efforts. I will continue to protect the independence of the selection process, relentlessly support emerging talents, and ensure that Cannes remains a place where cinematic creativity and technological innovation intersect and enrich one another.

I also reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that the Festival remains a space of equality and recognition for all, with a special focus on empowering women to showcase their incredible creativity. 

For nearly 80 years, the Festival de Cannes and cinema have shared a unique and enduring love story. We will strive to ensure that this exceptional institution remains a beacon for artists and films worldwide.”

Iris Knobloch has had an outstanding career at Warner Bros. and Time Warner, holding executive positions in New York, Los Angeles, London and Paris. She has collaborated with some of the most influential figures in world cinema and notably championed The Artist by Michel Hazanavicius, the first French film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture following its selection at Cannes. A passionate advocate for European values and a strong supporter of both French and International filmmaking, Iris Knobloch is recognized as a trailblazer in the evolving landscape of the film industry. Her forward-leading vision, dedication to diversity and commitment to innovation in the creative industries have earned her widespread respect. She has served as President of the Festival de Cannes since July 2022.