Imagine a Hollywood where young stars aren't just acting on screen—they're the ones calling the shots behind the scenes, and their take on the industry's future is blowing the lid off traditional norms. But here's where it gets controversial: Are these rising talents ready to rewrite the rules, or are they just echoing the chaos of the streaming wars? Dive in to discover what the Next Gen execs really think.
This piece is part of The Hollywood Reporter’s annual Next Gen initiative, spotlighting the brightest young minds shaping entertainment. For a full dive into the 32nd annual Next Gen list of emerging executives under 35, check it out right here.
To truly grasp the pulse of today's Hollywood workplace for the younger crowd, THR reached out anonymously to alumni from its recent Next Gen rosters. These surveys, conducted over the past couple of years, probed everything from company policies and favorite streaming platforms to head-to-head comparisons between big-shot CEOs like Warner Bros. Discovery's David Zaslav and Disney's Bob Iger—and yes, even debates over whether comfy sandals like Birkenstocks belong in a professional setting.
Let's unpack the findings below, breaking down what they reveal about the evolving landscape of Hollywood careers.
Office Policies and Emerging Tech
A staggering 59.6 percent of the surveyed Next Gen alumni admitted they're completely in the dark about whether artificial intelligence will revolutionize or ruin the film and TV world. To put that in perspective, AI is a tool that's already transforming scriptwriting, special effects, and even audience analytics, but these young pros are unsure if it's a game-changer or a threat to jobs and creativity. On one side, 22.6 percent leaned towards "destroy," fearing it could homogenize storytelling or displace human artistry. Meanwhile, just 12.8 percent optimistically chose "save," envisioning it as a booster for innovation. And this is the part most people miss: In an industry built on human imagination, how do we balance cutting-edge tech with the irreplaceable spark of originality? Is AI the future's ally or a creative killer?
Fashion Forward: What Counts as Office Attire in 2025?
Shifting gears to style, the survey touched on whether casual footwear like Birkenstocks is office-appropriate. For beginners wondering, Birkenstocks are those iconic, comfy sandals often associated with beach vibes, but in Hollywood's relaxed offices, they might just be the new norm. This ties into broader trends of remote work and hybrid setups, where formal suits are giving way to comfort. But here's where it gets controversial: Are we sacrificing professionalism for coziness, or is this a smart evolution that boosts productivity? Many Next Gen folks seem to think so, embracing a wardrobe that reflects the industry's youthful, creative energy.
Excitement Levels: DC Studios Edges Out Marvel
When asked about studio buzz, 70.2 percent of the alumni expressed greater enthusiasm for DC Studios compared to Marvel Studios, which only captured 29.8 percent. For context, DC Studios, under James Gunn's leadership, is rebooting superhero franchises with fresh takes on characters like Superman and Batman, while Marvel has dominated with its interconnected MCU. This preference might reflect a hunger for underdog stories or a desire for more gritty, diverse narratives over Marvel's polished blockbusters. As an example, DC's recent "Joker" films explored darker themes, appealing to those seeking depth beyond spectacle. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this a sign that Hollywood's pendulum is swinging towards originality over franchise fatigue, or just a temporary fad? What do you think—does DC's edge mean Marvel needs to rethink its formula?
CEO Showdown: Zaslav Versus Iger
Diving into executive rankings, the survey compared the performances of key entertainment CEOs. Specifically, it pitted Warner Bros. Discovery's David Zaslav against Disney's Bob Iger, prompting alumni to weigh in on who they're rooting for. Zaslav, known for his aggressive cost-cutting and streaming strategies at Warner, often sparks debate for his bold moves in merging properties like HBO and Discovery. Iger, Disney's long-time leader, is celebrated for expanding the empire through acquisitions and theme parks. This head-to-head highlights the contrasting styles: Zaslav's no-nonsense approach versus Iger's visionary expansions. For novices, think of it as choosing between a strategic surgeon (Zaslav) and a creative architect (Iger). And this is the part most people miss: In a volatile industry, does Zaslav's ruthlessness signal necessary evolution, or is Iger's steady hand the safer bet for long-term innovation?
Dream Roles: What’s the Ultimate Hollywood Gig?
Dream jobs in entertainment? A top film or TV producer claimed the top spot, with 34.4 percent of votes from Next Gen alumni. This role involves overseeing everything from scripts to budgets, making it the ultimate creative powerhouse. Coming in second was a streamer's head of content at 23.3 percent, reflecting the dominance of platforms like Netflix. Third was the CEO of an entertainment company (13.3 percent), fourth head of a talent agency (8.9 percent), and fifth film studio chief (7.8 percent). Fun write-ins included "tech company CEO" (maybe eyeing Silicon Valley giants) and even Larry Ellison, the Oracle co-founder, for his tech-entertainment crossover potential. For example, a producer like Jordan Peele not only creates hits like "Get Out" but also shapes cultural conversations. But here's where it gets controversial: In a world obsessed with algorithms and AI, is the producer's seat still the pinnacle, or are streaming execs the new kings? Does this say more about our fascination with storytelling or the lure of corporate power?
Streaming Dominance and Future Trends
Finally, the survey explored streaming preferences, underscoring how platforms are reshaping Hollywood. Alumni ranked their go-tos, highlighting a shift towards personalized, on-demand content. This supremacy isn't just about binge-watching—it's about who controls the narrative in an era of endless options. For instance, services like Hulu or Disney+ are winning hearts by offering exclusive originals, much like how traditional TV gave way to cable.
And this is the part most people miss: As young execs ponder these changes, it begs the question: Is Hollywood evolving for the better, embracing innovation, or racing towards oversaturation? Do you agree that DC's rise signals a superhero renaissance, or is Marvel's model unbeatable? Share your thoughts in the comments—what's your take on CEOs like Zaslav and Iger? Is AI a savior or a scourge for creativity? We'd love to hear your controversial opinions!*
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