Maggie Gyllenhaal to lead Venice Film Festival 2026 jury as President

The actress will oversee awards including Golden Lion as Venice returns in September 2026 festival season focus awards

Maggie Gyllenhaal has been confirmed as Jury President for the 83rd Venice Film Festival, set to take place from September 2 to September 12, 2026. The announcement was made by La Biennale di Venezia following a recommendation from festival director Alberto Barbera, who recently had his mandate extended through to the 2028 editions.

Gyllenhaal becomes the latest major figure in global cinema to take on the role, following a line of previous jury presidents that includes Alexander Payne, Isabelle Huppert, Damien Chazelle, Julianne Moore, Bong Joon Ho and Cate Blanchett. The position places her at the centre of one of the most closely watched awards platforms in international film, where the jury decides the Golden Lion for Best Film along with several other major prizes.

In a statement, Gyllenhaal expressed her appreciation for the appointment, highlighting Venice as a festival that consistently supports distinctive cinematic voices. She said she was honoured to take on the responsibility and described her approach as one shaped by curiosity, admiration and enthusiasm for filmmakers working today. Her comments reflected an emphasis on openness rather than judgement, aligning with the festival’s long standing focus on artistic discovery.

Alberto Barbera praised Gyllenhaal’s career trajectory, describing it as marked by consistency, intelligence and artistic courage. He highlighted her evolution from acclaimed actor to filmmaker, referencing her directorial debut with The Lost Daughter, which premiered in Venice in 2021 and won Best Screenplay. He also noted her recent work as a director on The Bride!, which further established her position behind the camera.

Gyllenhaal’s career spans both acting and directing, with notable performances in films such as Donnie Darko, Secretary, The Dark Knight, Crazy Heart and The Kindergarten Teacher. She has also been recognised for her work in television and for her writing, including the children’s book series Freckleface Strawberry. Her move into directing has been widely regarded as a significant extension of her creative profile in contemporary cinema.

The Venice Film Festival jury is responsible for awarding key honours including the Golden Lion, Silver Lion for Best Director, the Grand Jury Prize, acting awards known as the Coppa Volpi, and additional distinctions for screenplay and emerging talent. The remaining jury members for the 2026 edition are expected to be announced closer to the festival.

Gyllenhaal’s appointment arrives as anticipation builds around Venice’s 2026 programme, with early speculation already circulating about potential major international premieres.