The 33rd Annual Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame is set to honor 14 distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the media industry. This year's cohort includes some well-known names such as Drew Barrymore, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and George Cheeks, Co-CEO of Paramount Global.
The gala event, which will take place on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at New York's Ziegfeld Ballroom, promises to be a night of celebration for the honorees and their achievements. In addition to the individual awards, the event will also feature the presentation of the Iconic Show Award to the beloved daytime drama "Days of our Lives," which is marking its 60th anniversary this November.
According to Charlie Weiss, chairman of the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame, "The Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame is proud to recognize this extraordinary group of leaders, innovators, and creative pioneers who have shaped the media landscape in profound ways. Each honoree has not only excelled in their field but has also driven meaningful change across the industry." This statement underscores the importance of the contributions made by the 2025 inductees.
Among the honorees, Drew Barrymore is recognized not only for her work as an actress but also for her role as a director, producer, and host of "The Drew Barrymore Show." Barrymore is also a co-founder of the production company Flower Films, which has produced several successful projects over the years.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, known for her role in the hit series "Abbott Elementary," will receive the Humanitarian Award for her philanthropic efforts through the DIVA Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the arts.
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro will be honored with the Hall of Fame’s Chairman’s Award, recognizing his contributions across Disney’s platforms worldwide. This award highlights Pitaro’s influence in shaping sports media and entertainment.
The gala will also honor other notable figures in the industry, including Kristin Dolan, CEO of AMC Networks; Richard A. “Dick” Foreman, President of Richard A. Foreman Associates, Incorporated; Michael Gelman, Executive Producer of "Live with Kelly & Mark"; David Kline, President of Spectrum Reach; Mark Marshall, Chairman of Global Advertising & Partnerships at NBCUniversal; Arthur Smith, Chairman & CEO of A. Smith & Co. Productions; Jon Steinlauf, Chief U.S. Advertising Sales Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery; Sandra Stern, Vice Chairman of Lionsgate Television Group; and Rob Weisbord, Chief Operating Officer and President of Local Media at Sinclair, Inc.
Additionally, Melani Griffith will receive the Technology Leadership Award, acknowledging her role as Chief Growth Officer at Google Fiber. This award reflects the increasing importance of technology in the media landscape and Griffith's contributions to this field.
A portion of the proceeds from the gala will be donated to The Broadcasters Foundation of America, a charitable organization that provides financial assistance to those in the broadcasting industry facing acute need due to critical illness, accidents, or other serious misfortunes. This commitment to giving back exemplifies the spirit of the honorees, who have not only achieved personal success but also seek to uplift their colleagues.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame remains a vital institution that recognizes the pioneers and innovators who shape the industry. The upcoming gala promises to be a memorable event, celebrating the achievements of those who have made a lasting impact.
With the induction of these remarkable individuals into the Hall of Fame, the 2025 ceremony will not only honor their past contributions but also inspire future generations in the media and entertainment fields.