TIME Reveals 2026 TIME100 Next List With Rising Stars Spotlighted Across Global Covers

TIME unveiled its 2026 TIME100 Next list on Sept. 30. It showcases 100 figures who are molding entertainment, business, sports, science, and politics. The yearly list features three worldwide covers spotlighting singer-songwriter RAYE, actor Ashley Padilla, and comedian Druski.

Honorees fall into five categories: Phenoms, Artists, Leaders, Innovators, and Advocates. Seven musicians made the 2026 roster. RAYE appears among Leaders, Sombr is a Phenom, and PinkPantheress, Conan Gray, Megan Moroney, Alex Warren, and Joshua Henry are Artists. Troye Sivan joins the Advocates category.

"We launched TIME100 Next in 2019 with the belief that the nature of influence was changing," TIME Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs wrote. "We created TIME100 Next knowing that influence can now come early and, when it does, through channels that work outside the establishment."

RAYE finished a 51-date tour in 2026. She released a No. 1 album, This Music May Contain Hope. Anya Taylor-Joy penned the tribute for RAYE, who will perform at the TIME100 Next event in New York City on Oct. 29.

Megan Moroney is the sole country music artist on the list. Tate McRae wrote her tribute.

Athletes on the list include Filipino tennis player Alexandra Eala, recognized as an Innovator. Rafael Nadal wrote her tribute, recalling their time at the Rafa Nadal Academy. "At just 19, Alex beat three Grand Slam champion players at the 2025 Miami Open. This year, she won the WTA 500 tournament, becoming the first player from the Philippines to break into the world's top 20."

Other honorees include actors Joey King, Charles Melton, Eiza González, Cooper Hoffman, and Dominic Sessa. Athletes Arch Manning and Tyrese Maxey also appear. Tributes came from Matthew McConaughey and LeBron James.

The youngest person on the 2026 list is cricket player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at 15. The event on Oct. 29 will feature appearances from Druski, Conan Gray, Eiza González, and more.