Timeless leaders shape the future at the 2025 TIME100 Gala, as icons, innovators, and impact-makers come together to inspire and influence a new generation.
Icons, Innovators, and Impact: A Night of Influence at the 2025 TIME100 Gala
The 2025 TIME100 Gala was a celebration of influence in all its forms. From Olympic champions to Broadway stars, astronomers to restaurateurs, this year’s honorees were recognized for their impact on the world. The event took place at Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, in New York City.
The TIME100 Gala is an annual event hosted by Time magazine to recognize the most influential people in the world.
The list, known as the TIME100, features individuals from various fields, including politics, entertainment, business, and activism.
The gala honors these individuals for their contributions and impact on society.
Founded in 2004, the TIME100 has become a prestigious recognition of global influence, with past honorees including world leaders, celebrities, and entrepreneurs.
A Night of Celebrity Sightings
The red carpet was abuzz with luminaries, including Demi Moore, Scarlett Johansson, Jon M. Chu, Simone Biles, Kwame Onwuachi, Nikki Glaser, and Hozier, among others. ‘I’m so excited to be here tonight,’ said Nicole Scherzinger, the honoree for her work as a singer and actress, who was the first to arrive at 6:24 p.m., still doing interviews ahead of her 7 p.m. curtain call.
Celebrity sightings refer to instances where fans and paparazzi spot famous individuals in public places.
These encounters often generate significant media attention, with photos and stories being shared widely on social media and in tabloids.
According to a survey, 75% of celebrities have reported feeling uncomfortable or harassed by constant paparazzi attention.
In response, some celebrities now hire bodyguards or use secure transportation to maintain their privacy.
As the guests waited their turn in line, they were treated to an array of celebrities, including Olympic gold-medalist skier Lindsay Vonn and astronomer Wendy Freedman. ‘I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to share my research with such a wonderful audience,’ said Freedman, who measures how fast the universe is expanding.
Meeting the Honorees
Throughout the evening, attendees had the chance to meet and greet with some of the most influential people in the world. Bobbi Brown, owner of the eponymous cosmetics line, spoke about her passion for helping women and entrepreneurs. ‘I’m so grateful to be here tonight,’ said Nok Suntaranon, a chef and restaurateur, who shared her story of perseverance and the importance of following one’s dreams.
Visual artist Mickalene Thomas talked about her own work, as well as her mentorship program, Art Forward, which supports emerging artists. Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins represented the theater community, while TIME CEO Jessica Sibley joked with photographers about being the ‘boss’ who writes the check.
Impact and Inspiration
The evening’s program featured several honorees sharing their impact and inspiration with the crowd. ‘I want to remind everyone that it’s okay to be yourself,’ said Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, who emphasized the importance of showing up and staying true to oneself. Serena Williams spoke about her own journey as a leader and entrepreneur.
Blake Lively toasted her mom, ‘Willie Elain McAlpin, who is a survivor of domestic violence,’ highlighting the importance of naming and addressing these issues. The evening also featured a rare alignment of galaxies and stardom, with astronomer Wendy Freedman in conversation with actress Scarlett Johansson.
Galactic alignments occur when multiple galaxies align in a straight line, often due to gravitational forces.
This phenomenon is rare and can be observed from Earth using advanced telescopes.
The alignment of Andromeda Galaxy with the Milky Way and Triangulum Galaxy occurs approximately every 400 million years.
Astronomers study galactic alignments to understand galaxy evolution and interactions.
A Night to Remember
The 2025 TIME100 Gala was a night to remember, filled with influence, inspiration, and connection. From the red carpet to the program, this year’s honorees shone brightly, leaving an indelible mark on those who attended.
