Netflix’s Jinny Howe is keynote speaker at the Banff World Media Festival
Netflix executive Jinny Howe, who took on the role as head of US and Canadian scripted series in August, has been added to this year’s Banff World Media Festival as the year’s first confirmed keynote speaker. The Banff Summit Series is part of the 47th annual Banff World Media Festival, taking place this year from June 14 to 17 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
“Jinny Howe’s leadership is helping shape the stories audiences around the world watch,” said Bell Media President Sean Cohan, who also serves as chairman of Banff’s board of directors. “Her work exemplifies the creativity, innovation and global perspective that defines this festival, and we look forward to attendees hearing her insights firsthand.”
Howe has been with Netflix since 2018 and was previously vice president of drama. Series launched under her watch include the Emmy-winning limited series “Beef,” the Shonda Rhimes phenomenon “Bridgerton,” the critically acclaimed “Maid” and the buzzy “Indenting Anna.” Her credits also include “The Night Agent,” “The Diplomat,” “The Lincoln Lawyer,” “His & Hers,” “XO Kitty,” “Sirens” and “Untamed.”
Upcoming on Howe’s Netflix slate are “Little House on the Prairie,” “The Altruists” starring Julia Garner and “The Hawk” starring Will Ferrell. Before joining Netflix, Howe spent thirteen years at John Wells Television, where she most recently served as Executive VP of Television and worked on series including “Shameless,” “Southland” and “Animal Kingdom.”
The Banff Summit Series has previously included speakers such as Chuck Lorre, Anjali Sud, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Paula Kerger, Rob Wade, Pearlena Igbokwe, Bela Bajaria, Keith Le Goy, Ted Sarandos and Maverick Carter.
Spain has been named Banff’s ‘Country of Honor’ this year. The Banff World Media Festival has also announced nominees for the 2026 Rockie Awards International Program Competition, taking place on Tuesday, June 16 during the annual event. The event, hosted by Allana Harkin (“Full Frontal With Samantha Bee”), will take place at the same time as the Banff Gala Awards. View the full list of nominees here.
