TIME Unveils 2025 List of Most Influential People Amid Global Change

NEW YORK, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIME has released its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, characterized by figures from various fields including politics, business, and entertainment. This year’s roster reflects a dynamic shift in global leadership, with notable changes that resonate deeply within society.

Among the recognized leaders is former President Donald Trump, who has been featured on the list for the seventh time, alongside Vice President J.D. Vance. This highlights the significant presence of political figures this year, as the list comprises six members of the Trump administration, marking the largest political cohort since Barack Obama’s presidency in 2009.

TIME Chief Executive Officer Jessica Sibley stated, “The 2025 TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people recognizes the leaders shaping the world today and defining its future.” This year’s list also includes a record 16 corporate CEOs, illustrating the rise of business leaders in navigating today’s complex challenges.

In addition to political and corporate leaders, the list features individuals fighting for justice, equality, and democracy in a time when rights issues are increasingly urgent. TIME’s Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs noted, “What does the 2025 TIME100 tell us about the forces shaping our lives?” highlighting its diverse representation from 32 countries.

This year’s youngest honoree is 22-year-old French swimmer Léon Marchand, who captivated audiences at the Paris Olympics, while the oldest is Muhammad Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel laureate now leading Bangladesh’s interim government.

TIME’s journalists produced in-depth profiles on several notable figures from the list. Belinda Luscombe spent time with Snoop Dogg, who she described as a “battering ram” against cultural barriers, and Billy Perrigo interviewed Demis Hassabis, co-founder of Google DeepMind, to explore his insights into technological advancements.

Sean Gregory visited Serena Williams’ farm in South Florida, discovering how the tennis icon is reshaping both sports and investment landscapes. Meanwhile, Andrew Chow accompanied Ed Sheeran to a St. Patrick’s Day show, revealing how the artist has revitalized his creative process post-challenges.

Lucy Feldman spoke with the Substance star, who emphasized the importance of storytelling for women in their 60s, stating, “In fact, this is an incredibly powerful, exciting, and alive time.” This sentiment resonates throughout the 2025 TIME100 list, which illustrates a blend of resilience and innovation across various fields.

The formal unveiling of the TIME100 will take place at both the TIME100 Summit and Gala, with events scheduled for April 23 and 24 in New York City. The summit will convene leaders to discuss solutions for pressing global issues, featuring high-profile speakers like Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and WHO director-general Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The gala will feature performances by Ed Sheeran and Myles Smith, with Snoop Dogg serving as the host. TIME’s partnership with ABC will culminate in a primetime special to air on May 4, allowing viewers a glimpse into the influential gathering celebrating this year’s honorees.

For full details, including the complete list of honorees and their respective tributes, readers are encouraged to visit TIME’s official website. This year’s list highlights the diverse contributions and transformative impacts of those recognized, illustrating how they are shaping the world today.