Celebrity Perspectives on Horror and Existential Fears at TIME100 Next Gala
Stars share their cinematic preferences and personal fears during the 2026 Halloween season.
1Gala Event Context
The 2026 TIME100 Next Gala took place on October 29 in New York City at Pier 59. This high-profile gathering served as a platform for industry leaders and rising stars to discuss seasonal themes. The event was presented by major corporate partners including Rolex, Toyota, American Airlines, Danantara, Project Management Institute, and Target.
2Classic Horror Preferences
Attendees highlighted various cinematic influences during the event. Actor Cooper Hoffman identified the classic film Rosemary’s Baby as a top recommendation, while Dominic Sessa opted for Resident Evil. These selections reflect a diverse appreciation for horror history, ranging from psychological thrillers to modern survival-based narratives that define the genre's enduring appeal among current performers.
3Modern Filmmaking Insights
Filmmaker Curry Barker demonstrated extensive genre knowledge by citing A Nightmare on Elm Street and Hereditary as significant influences. Currently, Barker is developing a new project titled Anything But Ghosts, scheduled for release in May 2027. His approach bridges traditional horror tropes with contemporary storytelling techniques to engage modern audiences effectively.
4Existential Digital Anxiety
Comedian Chloe Fineman offered a unique perspective by shifting the focus from fictional horror to real-world concerns. She described social media platforms like Instagram as a source of existential dread, equating the digital landscape to a horror movie. This sentiment underscores the growing psychological impact of constant connectivity and news consumption on public figures.
5Supernatural Personal Experiences
Actress Joey King, known for her role in Practical Magic 2, discussed her personal encounters with the supernatural. She admitted to suppressing psychic sensitivities after experiencing frightening events during her youth. Despite her professional involvement in witch-themed narratives, she remains hesitant to consult mediums, fearing the potential revelation of her own future.
6Industry Creative Trends
The intersection of celebrity culture and horror media remains a potent marketing tool for the entertainment industry. By aligning personal fears with professional projects, actors like Paapa Essiedu, who is starring in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter adaptation, maintain high levels of audience engagement. These public discussions humanize stars while promoting their upcoming creative ventures.
7Corporate Sponsorship Dynamics
The involvement of diverse sponsors like Rolex and the Project Management Institute at the TIME100 Next Gala highlights the commercial integration of cultural events. These brands leverage the visibility of high-profile attendees to reinforce their market presence. Such partnerships are essential for funding large-scale industry gatherings that facilitate networking and professional brand alignment.
8Cultural Seasonal Impact
The Halloween season acts as a catalyst for media professionals to explore darker thematic elements in their work. From nostalgic film choices to discussions on existential digital threats, the gala captured a snapshot of current cultural anxieties. These insights reflect how creative professionals process fear, both as a form of entertainment and a reality.
Original article: TIME — Celebrity Perspectives on Horror and Existential Fears at TIME100 Next Gala