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Time 100
Awarded forInfluence
DateAnnually since 2004; 21 years ago (2004)
Presented byTime magazine
Websitetime.com/100-most-influential-people

The Time 100 is a list published by the American news magazine Time of the 100 most influential people in the world. First published in 1999 as the result of a debate among American academics, politicians, and journalists, the list is now a highly publicized annual event. It is generally considered an honor to be included on the list, but, much like the magazine's Person of the Year, Time makes it clear that entrants are recognized for changing the world, regardless of the consequences of their actions. The final list of influential individuals is exclusively chosen by Time editors, with nominations coming from the Time 100 alumni and the magazine's international writing staff.[1] Only the winner of the Reader's Poll, conducted days before the official list is revealed, is chosen by the general public.[2] The corresponding commemorative gala is held annually in Manhattan, and has emerged as one of the world's most celebrated galas as well as high fashion events.

In 2019, Time began publishing the Time 100 Next list, which "spotlights 100 rising stars who are shaping the future of business, entertainment, sports, politics, science, health and more".[3]

Selection criteria

[edit]

In 2000, Time's editors identified "three rather distinct qualities" when choosing people to be listed. Time's editor-at-large Michael Elliott wrote:

First there were those who came to their status by means of a very public possession of power. President George W. Bush is the pre-eminent example others, though they are rarely heard from in public, nonetheless have a real influence on the great events of our time. Think of Ali Husaini Sistani, the Grand Ayatullah of Iraq's Shi'ites, who in effect has a veto on plans to transfer power from those who occupy his country to its people. Still others affect our lives through their moral example. Consider Nelson Mandela's forgiveness of his captors and his willingness to walk away from the South African presidency after a single term.[4]

For the 2007 list, managing editor Richard Stengel clarified that the Time 100 focused on the most influential people rather than the hottest, most popular, or most powerful people. He said:

Influence is hard to measure, and what we look for is people whose ideas, whose example, whose talent, whose discoveries transform the world we live in. Influence is less about the hard power of force than the soft power of ideas and example. Yes, there are Presidents and dictators who can change the world through fiat, but we're more interested in innovators like Monty Jones, the Sierra Leone scientist who has developed a strain of rice that can save African agriculture. Or heroes like the great chess master Garry Kasparov, who is leading the lonely fight for greater democracy in Russia. Or Academy Award-winning actor George Clooney who has leveraged his celebrity to bring attention to the tragedy in Darfur.[5]

History

[edit]

2000s

[edit]

From 2005 to 2008, Time magazine awarded one of Darko Mladenovic's Ray crystal sculptures to each Time 100 honoree. These sculptures were produced by Swarovski.[6]

In 2009, the winner of the online poll was 4chan founder Christopher Poole, who received 16,794,368 votes. Time claimed that their technical team "did detect and extinguish several attempts to hack the vote".[7] However, it was shown weeks before the poll ended that the results had been heavily influenced by hackers. The first letters of the top 21 names spell out "marblecake also the game". Marblecake was an obscene 4chan meme, and #marblecake was the name of the Internet Relay Chat channel used for communication by some of the participants in rigging the poll.[8][9]

2010s

[edit]

In its online presentation, Time introduced the 2010 list as follows: "In our annual Time 100 issue, we name the people who most affect our world".[10] The overall list was organized with four main sub-lists: Leaders, Heroes, Artists, and Thinkers.[10] Oprah Winfrey continued a streak that began in 2004, having been included on every Time 100 list, and was one of 31 women on the list. While 2012 saw a break in Oprah's streak, she would be a finalist four more times during the decade and returned to the list in 2018. The 2010 list included many expected names and some surprises such as Scott Brown, who HuffPost described as a premature selection at that point in his career.[11]

The 2010 list included 10 Indians,[12] but according to a local news station in India, Time faced criticism when they excluded Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan from the list, even though he was supposedly "in the race".[13] According to Rob Cain of Forbes, "Khan is the biggest and most revered figure [in India]", and Khan's fan following is one of the largest in Bollywood.[14]

The announcement of the list was celebrated by a black tie gala at the Time Warner Center in New York City on May 4, 2010. Time readers contributed to the selection through an online vote of over 200 finalists.[15]

Time introduced the 2011 list as follows: "Meet the most influential people in the world. They are artists and activists, reformers and researchers, heads of state, and captains of industry. Their ideas spark dialogue and dissent and sometimes even revolution. Welcome to this year's Time 100."[16] The announcement was celebrated with a black tie event in New York City on April 26, 2011.[17] The honorees were joined by A-list celebrities at the Jazz at Lincoln Center for the event. Time readers contributed to the selection through an online vote of over 200 finalists.[18]

The list included familiar leaders, particularly U.S. president Barack Obama and German chancellor Angela Merkel, as well as "newcomers" to the global press.[19] The list included numerous figures representing the Arab Spring in the Middle East, including rebels, political leaders, and news correspondents. Media figures unrelated to the Arab Spring were also listed.[20] Additionally, Prince William and Kate Middleton were part of the list during the week before their wedding.[21] The list also included Katsunobu Sakurai, the mayor of Minamisōma, Fukushima, which was the city most affected by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.[19]

Revealed on April 24, 2014, the 2014 list featured Beyoncé on the U.S. cover and Robert Redford, Jason Collins, and Mary Barra on international covers.[22] The list included 41 women, the most in the list's history.[23] The gala was held on April 29, 2014, in New York City.[24]

Time managing editor Nancy Gibbs commented:

The Time 100 is a list of the world's most influential men and women, not its most powerful, though those are not mutually exclusive terms. Power, as we've seen this year, can be crude and implacable, from Vladimir Putin's mugging of Crimea to North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's summary execution of his uncle and mentor Jang Song-thaek. Those men made our list, but they are the outliers, and not just because we generally seek to celebrate the best work of the human spirit. The vast majority of this year's roster reveals that while power is certain, influence is subtle. Power is a tool, influence is a skill; one is a fist, the other a fingertip. You don't lead by hitting people over the head, Dwight Eisenhower used to say. That's "assault, not leadership." ... To assemble the list, we rely on our journalists around the world and our Time 100 alumni (many of whom are as influential as ever). ... If there is a common theme in many of the tributes, it's the eagerness to see what some engineer, actor, leader or athlete will do next. As much as this exercise chronicles the achievements of the past year, we also focus on figures whose influence is likely to grow, so we can look around the corner to see what is coming.

— Nancy Gibbs, "The Ties That Bind the 100"[25]

At age 14, Spanish-British born actress Millie Bobby Brown became the youngest person to be listed on the 2018 list, when Stranger Things was in its third season.[26] The 2018 list also included two Israelis: entrepreneur and WeWork founder Adam Neumann; and actress and model Gal Gadot.[27][28]

In the 2019 list, Time chose authors to write the honorees' blurbs. Some of the pairings include Gal Gadot writing about Dwayne Johnson, Shawn Mendes writing about Taylor Swift, Shonda Rhimes writing about Sandra Oh, Ava DuVernay writing about Gayle King, and Beyoncé writing about Michelle Obama.[29]

2020s

[edit]

The 2020 list included Indian actor Ayushmann Khurrana, rapper Megan Thee Stallion, comedian Phoebe Waller-Bridge, tennis champion Naomi Osaka (her second time being included), F1 driver Lewis Hamilton, attorney Nury Turkel, American football player Patrick Mahomes, and environmental justice advocate Cecilia Martinez.[30]

On September 15, Time revealed the 2021 list, distributed into the categories Icons, Pioneers, Titans, Artists, Leaders and Innovators. Each category has a highlighted section of personalities being featured on the Time magazine cover, naming Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as Icons, Billie Eilish as Pioneer, Simone Biles as Titan, Kate Winslet as Artist, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Leader and Jensen Huang as Innovator.[31] Furthermore, Time held a readers poll prior to the reveal of the editors list, asking whether certain personalities should be included in that year's annual list. Nearly 1.8 million votes were cast, with Britney Spears claiming the top spot while also being featured as an Icon.[32]

Editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal commented on the current working circumstances at Time and the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on the annual gala:

For the second year in a row, Time journalists assembled this project working apart, across time zones and continents. It was overseen for the fifth year by Dan Macsai, editorial director of the Time100, working with Ng, as well as Jennifer Duggan, Merrill Fabry, Lucy Feldman, Cate Matthews, Nadia Suleman and designer Katie Kalupson. Though COVID-19 prevented us from hosting our annual gala (back next year!), we are bringing the list to life once again through a Time100 TV special (Monday, Sept. 20, at 10 p.m. E.T. on ABC).

— Edward Felsenthal, "How We Chose the 2021 Time100"[33]

The 2024 list included Dua Lipa, Dev Patel, 21 Savage, Jenny Holzer, and Lauren Blauvelt.

The 2025 list included Ahmed al-Sharaa, Yoshiki, Serena Williams, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, and Snoop Dogg.[34]

Multiple appearances

[edit]

Each category is given equal weight every year, but some people make repeat appearances over time.

The following list includes individuals who have appeared at least three times. The order is based on the number of times each person has been listed in Time 100. Those who are tied are listed alphabetically. Some individuals, such as Nelson Mandela, have also been listed in the one-off Time's list of "The Most Important People of the 20th Century". They are listed in bold.

Listed six times or more

[edit]
  • Xi Jinping Listed thirteen times: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2009 (Finalist in 2023)
    Xi Jinping
    Listed thirteen times: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2009
    (Finalist in 2023)
  • Barack Obama Listed eleven times: 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2005 (Finalist in 2018)
    Barack Obama
    Listed eleven times: 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2005
    (Finalist in 2018)
  • Oprah Winfrey Listed eleven times: 2022, 2018, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, and the 20th century (Finalist in 2023, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2015, and 2012)
    Oprah Winfrey
    Listed eleven times: 2022, 2018, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, and the 20th century
    (Finalist in 2023, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2015, and 2012)
  • Hillary Clinton Listed ten times: 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2004 (Finalist in 2013 and 2010)
    Hillary Clinton
    Listed ten times: 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2013 and 2010)
  • Angela Merkel Listed nine times: 2020, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2007, and 2006 (Finalist in 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2013, 2010, and 2008)
    Angela Merkel
    Listed nine times: 2020, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2007, and 2006
    (Finalist in 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2013, 2010, and 2008)
  • Kim Jong Un Listed eight times: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019)
    Kim Jong Un
    Listed eight times: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019)
  • Vladimir Putin Listed seven times: 2022, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2008, and 2004 (Finalist in 2023, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2012, 2011, 2009, and 2007)
    Vladimir Putin
    Listed seven times: 2022, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2008, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2023, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2012, 2011, 2009, and 2007)
  • Donald Trump Listed seven times: 2025, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016 (Finalist in 2023 and 2022)
    Donald Trump
    Listed seven times: 2025, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016
    (Finalist in 2023 and 2022)
  • Joe Biden Listed six times: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2013, and 2011 (Finalist in 2016)
    Joe Biden
    Listed six times: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2013, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2016)
  • Pope Francis Listed six times: 2019, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2018)
    Pope Francis
    Listed six times: 2019, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2018)
  • Elon Musk Listed six times: 2025, 2023, 2021, 2018, 2013, and 2010 (Finalist in 2022, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2016, and 2015)
    Elon Musk
    Listed six times: 2025, 2023, 2021, 2018, 2013, and 2010
    (Finalist in 2022, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2016, and 2015)

Listed five times

[edit]
  • Jeff Bezos Listed five times: 2018, 2017, 2014, 2009, and 2008 (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2019, 2016, 2015, 2013, and 2012)
    Jeff Bezos
    Listed five times: 2018, 2017, 2014, 2009, and 2008
    (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2019, 2016, 2015, 2013, and 2012)
  • Tim Cook Listed five times: 2022, 2021, 2016, 2015, and 2012 (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2014)
    Tim Cook
    Listed five times: 2022, 2021, 2016, 2015, and 2012
    (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2014)
  • Steve Jobs Listed five times: 2010, 2008, 2007, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2011 and 2009)
    Steve Jobs
    Listed five times: 2010, 2008, 2007, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2011 and 2009)
  • Christine Lagarde Listed five times: 2022, 2016, 2012, 2010, and 2009 (Finalist in 2014)
    Christine Lagarde
    Listed five times: 2022, 2016, 2012, 2010, and 2009
    (Finalist in 2014)
  • Narendra Modi Listed five times: 2021, 2020, 2017, 2015, and 2014 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, 2016, and 2012)
    Narendra Modi
    Listed five times: 2021, 2020, 2017, 2015, and 2014
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, 2016, and 2012)
  • Aung San Suu Kyi Listed five times: 2016, 2013, 2011, 2008, and 2004 (Finalist in 2012 and 2009)
    Aung San Suu Kyi
    Listed five times: 2016, 2013, 2011, 2008, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2012 and 2009)
  • Nancy Pelosi Listed five times: 2020, 2019, 2018, 2010, and 2007 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2013, 2009, and 2008)
    Nancy Pelosi
    Listed five times: 2020, 2019, 2018, 2010, and 2007
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2013, 2009, and 2008)
  • Mark Zuckerberg Listed five times: 2025, 2019, 2016, 2011, and 2008 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2012, and 2009)
    Mark Zuckerberg
    Listed five times: 2025, 2019, 2016, 2011, and 2008
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2012, and 2009)

Listed four times

[edit]
  • George W. Bush 2008, 2006, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2009 and 2007)
    George W. Bush
    2008, 2006, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2009 and 2007)
  • Bill Clinton 2010, 2006, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2015, 2013, and 2007)
    Bill Clinton
    2010, 2006, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2015, 2013, and 2007)
  • George Clooney 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006 (Finalist in 2012, 2011, and 2010)
    George Clooney
    2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006
    (Finalist in 2012, 2011, and 2010)
  • Jamie Dimon 2011, 2009, 2008, and 2006 (Finalist in 2015 and 2012)
    Jamie Dimon
    2011, 2009, 2008, and 2006
    (Finalist in 2015 and 2012)
  • Recep Tayyip Erdoğan 2017, 2016, 2010, and 2004 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2015, 2014, and 2012)
    Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    2017, 2016, 2010, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2015, 2014, and 2012)
  • Bill Gates 2006, 2005, 2004, and the 20th century (Finalist in 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2010, and 2008)
    Bill Gates
    2006, 2005, 2004, and the 20th century
    (Finalist in 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2010, and 2008)
  • Hu Jintao 2008, 2007, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2011 and 2009)
    Hu Jintao
    2008, 2007, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2011 and 2009)
  • LeBron James 2019, 2017, 2013, and 2005 (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2018, and 2015)
    LeBron James
    2019, 2017, 2013, and 2005
    (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2018, and 2015)
  • Benjamin Netanyahu 2019, 2015, 2012, and 2011 (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2017, 2013, 2010, and 2009)
    Benjamin Netanyahu
    2019, 2015, 2012, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2017, 2013, 2010, and 2009)
  • Michelle Obama 2019, 2013, 2011, and 2009 (Finalist in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, and 2010)
    Michelle Obama
    2019, 2013, 2011, and 2009
    (Finalist in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, and 2010)
  • Condoleezza Rice 2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2008)
    Condoleezza Rice
    2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2008)
  • Elizabeth Warren 2017, 2015, 2010, and 2009 (Finalist in 2020, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2014, 2013, and 2011)
    Elizabeth Warren
    2017, 2015, 2010, and 2009
    (Finalist in 2020, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2014, 2013, and 2011)
  • Janet Yellen 2023, 2017, 2015, and 2014 (Finalist in 2016)
    Janet Yellen
    2023, 2017, 2015, and 2014
    (Finalist in 2016)

Listed three times

[edit]
  • Adele 2022, 2016, and 2012 (Finalist in 2023)
    Adele
    2022, 2016, and 2012
    (Finalist in 2023)
  • Pope Benedict XVI 2007, 2006, and 2005 (Finalist in 2013, 2009, and 2008)
    Pope Benedict XVI
    2007, 2006, and 2005
    (Finalist in 2013, 2009, and 2008)
  • Beyoncé 2023, 2014, and 2013 (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2011, and 2010)
    Beyoncé
    2023, 2014, and 2013
    (Finalist in 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2011, and 2010)
  • Simone Biles 2025, 2021, and 2017 (Finalist in 2019)
    Simone Biles
    2025, 2021, and 2017
    (Finalist in 2019)
  • Warren Buffett 2012, 2007, and 2004 (Finalist in 2016, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, and 2008)
    Warren Buffett
    2012, 2007, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2016, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, and 2008)
  • Catherine, Princess of Wales 2013, 2012, and 2011 (Finalist in 2018)
    Catherine, Princess of Wales
    2013, 2012, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2018)
  • The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso 2008, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2015 and 2009)
    The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso
    2008, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2015 and 2009)
  • Mario Draghi 2021, 2013, and 2012
    Mario Draghi
    2021, 2013, and 2012
  • Kamala Harris 2021, 2020, and 2013 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2019, 2017, 2012, and 2011)
    Kamala Harris
    2021, 2020, and 2013
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2019, 2017, 2012, and 2011)
  • Bob Iger 2023, 2019, and 2015 (Finalist in 2018)
    Bob Iger
    2023, 2019, and 2015
    (Finalist in 2018)
  • John Kerry 2016, 2014, and 2004 (Finalist in 2015 and 2013)
    John Kerry
    2016, 2014, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2015 and 2013)
  • Charles Koch 2015, 2014, and 2011 (Finalist in 2016 and 2012) (shared with brother David at all times)
    Charles Koch
    2015, 2014, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2016 and 2012)
    (shared with brother David at all times)
  • David Koch 2015, 2014, and 2011 (Finalist in 2016 and 2012) (shared with brother Charles at all times)
    David Koch
    2015, 2014, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2016 and 2012)
    (shared with brother Charles at all times)
  • Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva 2023, 2010, and 2004
    Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
    2023, 2010, and 2004
  • Ma Huateng 2018, 2014, and 2007 (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2019)
    Ma Huateng
    2018, 2014, and 2007
    (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2019)
  • Patrick Mahomes 2024, 2023, 2020 (Finalist in 2019)
    Patrick Mahomes
    2024, 2023, 2020
    (Finalist in 2019)
  • Nelson Mandela 2005, 2004, and the 20th century (Finalist in 2008 and 2007)
    Nelson Mandela
    2005, 2004, and the 20th century
    (Finalist in 2008 and 2007)
  • Mitch McConnell 2023, 2019, and 2015 (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2014)
    Mitch McConnell
    2023, 2019, and 2015
    (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2014)
  • Lionel Messi 2023, 2012, and 2011 (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2016)
    Lionel Messi
    2023, 2012, and 2011
    (Finalist in 2022, 2021, and 2016)
  • Lorne Michaels 2025, 2015, and 2008
    Lorne Michaels
    2025, 2015, and 2008
  • Rupert Murdoch 2008, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2012, 2010, and 2009)
    Rupert Murdoch
    2008, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2012, 2010, and 2009)
  • Satya Nadella 2024, 2018, and 2015 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2016, and 2014)
    Satya Nadella
    2024, 2018, and 2015
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2016, and 2014)
  • Naomi Osaka 2021, 2020, and 2019
    Naomi Osaka
    2021, 2020, and 2019
  • Larry Page 2011, 2005, and 2004 (Finalist in 2014, 2012, and 2008)
    Larry Page
    2011, 2005, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2014, 2012, and 2008)
  • Brad Pitt 2009, 2008, and 2007 (Finalist in 2012 and 2011)
    Brad Pitt
    2009, 2008, and 2007
    (Finalist in 2012 and 2011)
  • Ren Zhengfei 2019, 2013, and 2005
    Ren Zhengfei
    2019, 2013, and 2005
  • Shonda Rhimes 2021, 2013, and 2007 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2016, and 2015)
    Shonda Rhimes
    2021, 2013, and 2007
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2016, and 2015)
  • John Roberts 2020, 2007, and 2006 (Finalist in 2015, 2013, 2012, and 2008)
    John Roberts
    2020, 2007, and 2006
    (Finalist in 2015, 2013, 2012, and 2008)
  • Muqtada al-Sadr 2011, 2008, and 2006 (Finalist in 2009 and 2007)
    Muqtada al-Sadr
    2011, 2008, and 2006
    (Finalist in 2009 and 2007)
  • Taylor Swift 2019, 2015, and 2010 (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2016, 2014, and 2009)
    Taylor Swift
    2019, 2015, and 2010
    (Finalist in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2016, 2014, and 2009)
  • Serena Williams 2025, 2014, and 2010 (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2013)
    Serena Williams
    2025, 2014, and 2010
    (Finalist in 2023, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2013)
  • Tiger Woods 2019, 2009, and 2004 (Finalist in 2010, 2008, and 2007)
    Tiger Woods
    2019, 2009, and 2004
    (Finalist in 2010, 2008, and 2007)
  • Malala Yousafzai 2015, 2014, and 2013
    Malala Yousafzai
    2015, 2014, and 2013


Controversies

[edit]

Exclusions

[edit]

The exclusion of then-British prime minister Tony Blair from the 2004 list caused mild controversy. Time editor-at-large Michael J. Elliott defended the decision to consistently exclude Blair, saying that "Gerhard Schröder and Jacques Chirac are not there either. This is a worldwide list. There are no Western European political leaders on it because they are not that powerful or influential at this time."[35] The exclusion of then-President of the United States George W. Bush in 2007 generated similar controversy. Former Senator Rick Santorum (R–PA) said on Fox News:

The fact of the matter is, the president of the United States, I don't care who's in that office, is the most powerful man on the face of the Earth and has more influence over various aspects of lives, not just in this country, but around the world. And for Time magazine to dismiss that just shows you how biased and, I would argue, hateful they are.[36]

Adi Ignatius, Time's deputy managing editor who oversaw the list at the time, explained that "any U.S. president has a certain built-in influence ... Bush had actually squandered some of that built-in influence. His position on Iraq has cost him support in his own party. ... To a certain point, he sort of reached a lame-duck status".[37]

Inclusions

[edit]

The list has also generated controversy over inclusions. In 2005, conservative commentator Ann Coulter was listed, which led Salon to observe:

When Time magazine named Ann Coulter among its 100 "most influential people" last week, alongside such heavyweights as Ariel Sharon, Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama, the choice produced guffaws online. Plugging the issue on Fox News last week, Time executive editor Priscilla Painton insisted it was Coulter's use of "humor" that made her so influential, stopping just short of suggesting that Coulter is the conservative Jon Stewart. But even Fox's Bill O'Reilly wasn't buying it. He pressed Painton: "Do you think people, Americans, listen to Ann Coulter? Do you think she has influence in public opinion?"[38]

Time defended Coulter as a best-selling author whose controversial commentary strongly affected political debates in the United States. Coulter did not, however, make additional appearances on the list.

Mistakes

[edit]

In February 2016, Time included the male British author Evelyn Waugh on its "100 Most Read Female Writers in College Classes" list, generating media attention and concerns regarding fact-checking at the magazine.[39] Time later issued a retraction. In a BBC interview with Justin Webb, Oxford professor Valentine Cunningham said the mistake was "a piece of profound ignorance on the part of Time magazine".[40]

Other Time lists

[edit]

Next Generation Leaders

[edit]

Since 2014, in partnership with Rolex, Time has published a class of young pioneers "in politics, business, culture, science and sports" who are reshaping the world around them.[41] It is, per the magazine's editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal, "an opportunity to elevate" the trailblazers "who are building a better future".[42][43] Included in the 2022 list was Lina Abu Akleh, a human rights advocate who is the niece of Shireen Abu Akleh, a journalist likely killed by Israeli soldiers.[44]

The 25 Most Influential People on the Internet

[edit]

From 2015 to 2019, Time also published a list titled "The 25 Most Influential People on the Internet", which featured people whose influence and dominance may have changed Internet culture; who have support, position, and prominence in various sections of social media; or who use and/or rely on the Internet as a platform for change. People who have been listed range from political figures, such as Donald Trump and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to teenage YouTubers, such as JoJo Siwa and Emma Chamberlain.[45]

Others who have been listed include Lil Nas X, whose debut hit broke the record for most weeks spent atop the Billboard Hot 100 after being created and distributed on the Internet,[46] and actress and presenter Jameela Jamil, who is known widely beyond her profession for her online activism.[45]

Time 100 Next list

[edit]

In 2019, Time began publishing the Time 100 Next list, which "spotlights 100 rising stars who are shaping the future of business, entertainment, sports, politics, science, health and more".[3] It is considered an expansion of the current Time 100 list.[47] Although the list has no explicit age cap, it is more focused on up-and-coming figures and "rising stars".[3][48] The Next list features profiles written by established Time 100 alumni.[3]

Time 100 Women of the Year

[edit]

In 2019, Time created 89 new covers to celebrate women of the year starting from 1920.[49]

Time 100 Most Influential Companies

[edit]

In 2021, Time solicited company nominations from industry and journalistic sources, which were then evaluated on relevance, impact, innovation, leadership, ambition and success. The top 100 were compiled into the Time100 Most Influential Companies list, which included well-known companies such as GM, Tesla, Volkswagen Group, Facebook, Google, Moderna, UPS, Netflix, and Zoom. Along with the list, Time launched Time Business.[50][51]

Time 100 Climate

[edit]

In 2023, Time launched the Time Climate 100 list, which ranked the most influential climate action leaders based on recent and measurable achievements.[52] Its first edition included American singer Billie Eilish, United Steelworkers executive Roxanne Brown, World Bank president Ajay Banga, DSM-Firmenich vice-president Mark van Nieuwland, and indigenous rights activist Nemonte Nenquimo.[53]

Time 100 AI

[edit]

In 2023, Time launched the Time AI 100 list, featuring the 100 most influential people in artificial intelligence. The first edition included business leaders such as Anthropic CEO and president Dario and Daniela Amodei, along with writers and academics including science fiction author Ted Chiang, researcher and policy advisor Alondra Nelson, and neural network pioneer Geoffrey Hinton, amongst others.[54]

Time 100 Health

[edit]

In 2024, Time launched the Time Health 100 list, which recognizes the 100 most influential people in health. The list included French President Emmanuel Macron, U.S. President Jimmy Carter, and several other luminaries.[55]

Time 100 Philanthropy

[edit]

In 2025, Time launched the Time Philanthropy 100 list, which recognizes the 100 most influential people in the field of philanthropy.[56]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Time 100

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The TIME 100 is an annual list compiled by TIME magazine, featuring 100 individuals selected by its editors as the most influential people in the world for the preceding year, organized into categories including Leaders, Titans, Icons, Artists, Innovators, and Pioneers. The list, which began in 1999, aims to highlight those whose actions and ideas shape global events, culture, and progress, with selections informed by discussions among TIME's editorial staff, correspondents, and external experts. Over its history, the TIME 100 has recognized a diverse array of figures, from political leaders like , who has appeared 13 times, to innovators like , listed six times, reflecting patterns of repeated inclusion that underscore perceived sustained global impact. However, the list's editorial choices have drawn scrutiny for aligning with TIME's documented left-leaning bias, as rated by media watchdogs, resulting in frequent selections of liberal-leaning politicians such as (11 times) and disproportionate recognition of authoritarian leaders like (eight times) while more sparingly honoring conservatives like (seven times). This selectivity has sparked controversies, including criticisms of inclusions like in 2025 amid public backlash and historical exclusions such as British Prime Minister in 2004, highlighting subjective criteria over empirical measures of influence. Despite such debates, the TIME 100 generates significant media attention, features high-profile tributes from past honorees, and culminates in an annual gala event, amplifying its role in shaping narratives of power and achievement.

Overview

Inception and Purpose

The TIME 100 originated with Time magazine's 1999 publication of "TIME 100: The Most Important People of the Century," a one-time compilation identifying 100 individuals who most profoundly shaped the through their contributions in fields such as , , and social reform. The selection process involved input from American academics, politicians, and journalists, culminating in a complete list released on June 14, 1999, after initial category previews earlier that year. This list highlighted figures like , recognized for unlocking atomic and cosmic mysteries, and Mohandas Gandhi, noted for pioneering against colonial rule. Building on the acclaim of the centennial project, Time magazine launched the TIME 100 as an annual feature starting with the 2004 edition, released on newsstands April 20, 2004, to spotlight current global influencers amid rapidly evolving events. This shift enabled ongoing assessment of individuals driving contemporary change, rather than retrospective analysis. The core purpose remains to measure and acknowledge those exerting outsized influence on human affairs—via leadership, innovation, or disruption—by evaluating the tangible forces they unleash, distinct from transient fame or institutional authority alone. Time editors have described the exercise as a means to "step back and measure the forces that move us," focusing on impact that alters trajectories in politics, culture, and beyond. This emphasis on substantive agency over popularity underscores the list's intent to chronicle causal drivers of global shifts in real time.

Format and Categories

The TIME 100 list is structured into six primary categories—Leaders, Titans, Icons, Pioneers, Artists, and Innovators—to group honorees according to their domains of influence, such as , , , , , and . These groupings enable the presentation of diverse impact areas without rigid numerical quotas, allowing flexibility in selection volumes per category to align with prevailing global events and trends. The total comprises approximately 100 individuals, with profiles typically including short essays or tributes authored by prominent figures who highlight the honoree's contributions. Published annually in a dedicated issue of TIME magazine during April, the list is disseminated through print editions featuring multiple cover images of select honorees, alongside extensive online content such as interactive profiles, videos, and multimedia features. For the 2025 edition, released on April 16, the format incorporated five worldwide covers and emphasized emerging business influence by including a record 16 corporate CEOs. Complementing the publication, TIME organizes the TIME100 Summit on April 23 and the TIME100 Gala typically held later that week in , events that gather honorees, influencers, and performers for networking and recognition, often broadcast or streamed for broader reach. These elements collectively amplify the list's visibility, framing it as both an editorial ranking and a platform for discourse on global influence.

Selection Process

Criteria for Influence

The TIME 100 list evaluates candidates based on their demonstrated capacity to effect tangible changes in global affairs, prioritizing verifiable causal impacts over superficial measures of fame or public attention. Editors seek individuals whose actions—through innovations, policy shifts, decisions, or cultural transformations—have produced measurable outcomes, such as halting outbreaks, forging international agreements, or reshaping industries via technological advancements. This approach discounts popularity indicators like engagement or search trends, focusing instead on of influence, including breakthroughs that alter rules, set records, or challenge established boundaries. Selection standards emphasize global reach and the verifiability of contributions, assessing whether an individual's efforts have influenced systems, societies, or behaviors on an international scale, irrespective of the positive or negative nature of those effects. For instance, the criteria highlight leaders who wield public authority to drive reforms or moral exemplars who inspire shifts in , but only when supported by concrete results rather than intent or visibility alone. Nominations are solicited from TIME 100 alumni, the magazine's global correspondents, and subject-matter experts to identify potential candidates, yet final determinations rest with editors who rigorously scrutinize the extent and authenticity of each nominee's impact. This methodology underscores a commitment to causal realism in gauging influence, favoring those who have demonstrably moved the world through sustained, evidence-based agency over transient notoriety or polling data.

Editorial Decision-Making

Time's editorial team finalizes the TIME 100 list through an internal process of extended discussions among editors, correspondents, and select external contributors, spanning several months prior to annual publication. This deliberation, often led by senior figures such as Dan Macsai and Cate Matthews, incorporates nominations and insights gathered from Time's global network of journalists and experts, culminating in a curated selection without formalized public criteria for final inclusions. Ultimate authority resides with top editorial leadership, who approve the roster amid a lack of transparency regarding specific vote counts, debate transcripts, or rejection rationales, emphasizing discretionary journalistic expertise over algorithmic or democratic mechanisms. While subjective in nature, the process integrates empirical signals of influence, including analyses of media prominence, enacted outcomes, and consultations with domain specialists to gauge real-world effects. Each year's list represents a complete reevaluation, eschewing carryover mandates or from prior editions, which permits responsiveness to unfolding global developments—such as the 2025 inclusion of , recognized amid his leadership in pioneering space ventures and initiatives. This approach prioritizes contemporaneous impact over longitudinal consistency, allowing for abrupt shifts in honorees tied to verifiable shifts in spheres like and governance.

Criticisms of Methodology

The TIME 100 selection process relies on qualitative assessments of influence, such as breakthroughs in fields like or and personal narratives gathered from insiders, without employing quantifiable benchmarks like economic output, citation counts, or measurable impacts. This approach has drawn for potentially prioritizing compelling stories or cultural narratives over empirical data, as evidenced by inclusions that emphasize or visibility rather than verifiable metrics of global change, contrasting with data-centric rankings like , which uses figures such as $52.9 in and $4.9 in profit across listed companies. The opacity of the exacerbates concerns, as the final choices are made exclusively by TIME editors based on internal nominations from correspondents and , with no input, standardized scoring, or disclosure of details. Even TIME contributors have acknowledged the inherent , noting that thousands could qualify under vague influence criteria, fostering that editorial preferences may supersede objective evaluation. Historically, the process has depended on unverified internal judgments without third-party audits or cross-checks, undermining assertions of since the list's inception in 1999, where editorial discretion has consistently shaped outcomes absent external validation mechanisms common in more rigorous indices. This reliance on subjective curation, as critiqued by observers, risks conflating prominence with profound influence, particularly when compared to transparent, metric-based alternatives that prioritize hard evidence over interpretive assessments.

Historical Development

Early Lists (1999-2009)

The Time 100 began as a compilation in 1999, selecting the 100 most influential persons of the across categories including Leaders & Revolutionaries, Scientists & Thinkers, Builders & Titans, Artists & Entertainers, and . This inaugural effort drew from debates among academics, politicians, and journalists to identify century-defining figures such as and . Annual lists commenced in 2004, amid a post-September 11, 2001 emphasis on global security and leadership, featuring U.S. President in the Leaders category for his role in international affairs and former New York City Mayor for his crisis management. The 2004 selections highlighted American responses to , with recognized for steering policy through wartime challenges. The omission of British Prime Minister from the 2004 list, despite his alliance with U.S. efforts in , elicited commentary from Time editors, who noted it alongside exclusions of figures like Federal Reserve Chairman and Secretary of State , underscoring subjective criteria focused on direct influence. By the late , the list incorporated broader global perspectives, with 2009 stabilizing into categorized formats such as Leaders & Revolutionaries and Builders & Titans, amid the . U.S. President topped the 2009 Leaders section, cited for his electoral victory and early policy initiatives addressing economic turmoil.

2010s Evolution

In the , the TIME 100 list reflected the decade's digital revolution by elevating leaders and pioneers whose innovations reshaped communication and information flow. Mark Zuckerberg's inclusion in 2011 highlighted Facebook's expanding global reach, while subsequent years featured figures like in 2013 for advancements and Tim in 2012 following his Apple leadership transition. This emphasis paralleled the proliferation of smartphones and platforms like and , which amplified individual influence beyond traditional power structures. Thematic selections also responded to geopolitical upheavals, such as the Arab Spring protests starting in late 2010, which prompted inclusions of regional activists and reformers challenging authoritarian regimes through organized dissent. By mid-decade, categories broadened to spotlight artists and social advocates, aligning with rising awareness of cultural and humanitarian issues. The annual TIME 100 gala, established as a networking venue in , gained prominence during this period, convening honorees for tributes and discussions that underscored the list's role in fostering elite connections. Digital engagement features, including reader polls launched by 2018, invited public nominations—such as the campaign for that year—but exerted no sway over final editorial choices, preserving TIME's curatorial authority amid debates on versus expertise. The 2017 edition exemplified era-specific tensions, listing President alongside family advisers and , as well as opponents like , capturing the polarized influence dynamics post-2016 U.S. election. Later, amid the 2017 #MeToo revelations, activist profiles like Tarana Burke's gained traction in related TIME coverage, signaling a pivot toward voices addressing systemic abuses, though list inclusions prioritized demonstrated global ripple effects over transient buzz.

2020s and Recent Changes

In response to the , the 2020 TIME 100 list emphasized health experts and crisis managers, prominently featuring Dr. Anthony Fauci for his role in guiding U.S. responses, alongside global leaders addressing economic and social disruptions. The selection process highlighted individuals demonstrating resilience and innovation amid lockdowns and vaccine development, with editor-in-chief noting a focus on those providing "hope" through expertise rather than political figures alone. This shift continued into 2021, incorporating figures like for mental health advocacy during the ongoing crisis, reflecting broader adaptations to public vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic. The 2020s saw expanded sub-lists addressing emerging global challenges, including the launch of the TIME 100 in 2023 to recognize leaders in environmental action based on measurable impacts. Parallel to this, TIME introduced AI-focused recognitions, such as the 2024 list of 100 most influential people in AI, which prioritized corporate executives and researchers but notably excluded despite xAI's advancements in alternative AI models challenging dominant players. Critics argued this omission overlooked Musk's influence via and Tesla's autonomous driving integrations, attributing it potentially to editorial preferences favoring established tech ecosystems over disruptive newcomers. The 2025 TIME 100, released on April 16, underscored a resurgence in business leadership, including a record number of CEOs such as BlackRock's for sustainable investing strategies, alongside and Meta's for technological expansions. This edition signaled a pivot toward economic recovery post-pandemic, with innovators like of Palantir cited for data-driven defense applications amid geopolitical tensions. Complementing the main list, the TIME100 Next edition on September 30 highlighted emerging talents across and activism, such as and , to capture rising influences outside traditional power structures. Digital formats proliferated with the inaugural TIME100 Creators list in July 2025, spotlighting influencers like for reshaping media consumption, though the core annual lists retained a print-centric release in TIME's magazine issues to maintain editorial gravitas. Amid conflicts in and the , selections faced scrutiny for uneven inclusivity, with Ukrainian President featured in discussions but broader critiques questioning underrepresentation of on-ground actors versus Western-aligned figures, potentially reflecting institutional sourcing biases toward accessible, English-language narratives.

Patterns in Selections

Frequent Honorees

Individuals appearing most frequently on the TIME 100 list demonstrate sustained global influence over extended periods, often spanning decades in roles of political, economic, or cultural significance. holds the record with 13 appearances, including selections in 2009 and from 2011 through 2022. has been honored 11 times, from 2005 and 2007 to 2016. matches this total with 11 listings, encompassing the edition and annual selections from 2004 to 2011, plus 2018 and 2022. Hillary Clinton has appeared 10 times, primarily during her roles in U.S. politics from 2004 to 2016. follows with 9 inclusions, reflecting her long tenure as German Chancellor from 2006 to 2020. Kim Jong-un has 8 appearances from 2011 to 2018. and each have 7 selections; Putin from 2004, 2008, and 2014 to 2017 plus 2022, while Trump appeared consecutively from 2016 to 2021 and again in 2025. , , and have each been listed 6 times, with Musk's recognitions tied to advancements in space exploration and electric vehicles since 2010.
NameAppearancesNotable Years
132009, 2011–2022
112005, 2007–2016
1120th century, 2004–2011, 2018, 2022
102004–2009, 2011–2012, 2014–2016
92006–2007, 2009, 2011–2012, 2014–2016, 2020
Kim Jong-un82011–2018
72004, 2008, 2014–2017, 2022
72016–2021, 2025
62011, 2013, 2020–2023
62013–2017, 2019
62010, 2013, 2018, 2021, 2023, 2025
This pattern of recurrence, where approximately 10-15% of annual slots go to prior honorees based on archival reviews of TIME's publications, underscores the list's emphasis on enduring rather than ephemeral impact. Political leaders from major global powers dominate the upper echelons, indicating editorial prioritization of figures exerting consistent influence on international stability, economic policies, and geopolitical dynamics. The Time 100 selections exhibit a marked U.S. focus, with American figures frequently dominating due to the magazine's domestic editorial base, though global leaders from , , and elsewhere provide broader representation. Early annual lists, starting from , emphasized Western influencers, often aligning with prevailing media narratives on social and political issues. Gender representation has improved over time, from 24 women honorees in to 45 in and a record 48 in , approaching parity in recent iterations. This trend reflects deliberate efforts to diversify, yet demographic imbalances persist, including underrepresentation of non-Western economic drivers relative to cultural or activist figures. Ideologically, the lists correlate with Time's documented left-center , as assessed by evaluators, favoring progressive activists, Democratic-leaning politicians, and narrative-driven influencers over conservative economic proponents or free-market innovators. Frequent inclusions of figures like (11 appearances) and (10) contrast with fewer slots for right-leaning leaders until recent years, suggesting a tilt toward liberal Western priorities amid the magazine's editorial leanings. Analyses of Time's coverage highlight systemic preferences for advocates, often at the expense of metrics like economic output or technological patents, where conservative or libertarian influencers show outsized causal impacts. The 2025 list signals a partial countertrend, featuring 16 corporate executives—more than in prior years—and six members of the incoming Trump administration, including and , broadening inclusion of business and right-leaning voices amid shifting political realities. This adjustment, spanning 32 countries and incorporating nine justice advocates alongside CEOs, tempers earlier emphases on anti-business or purely activist profiles, though selections still prioritize media visibility over empirical influence indicators like GDP contributions. Such patterns underscore a reliance on editorial interpretation rather than quantifiable global effects, with ideological skews traceable to institutional biases in mainstream .

Controversies and Criticisms

Allegations of Political Bias

Critics have alleged that the TIME 100 list demonstrates a systemic left-leaning bias in its selections, prioritizing progressive figures and causes while underrepresenting conservative influencers. AllSides rates TIME magazine as Lean Left based on editorial content analysis, including story selection that favors liberal perspectives, which extends to curated lists like TIME 100 where influence is interpreted through a similar lens. Media Bias/Fact Check similarly classifies TIME as Left-Center biased due to consistent favoritism toward left-leaning narratives in coverage and awards. This skew manifests in disproportionate inclusions of Democratic politicians and activists; for instance, appeared 11 times from 2005 to 2016, 10 times from 2004 to 2016, and 5 times, often highlighted for policy impacts aligned with progressive agendas. In contrast, Republican presidents like were listed only 4 times (2004–2008), reflecting patterns post-2008 where Democratic honorees outnumbered Republicans amid heightened partisan divides. Such trends have drawn fire from conservative outlets for overlooking right-leaning reformers and emphasizing climate activists—e.g., multiple nods—over skeptics or advocates despite their economic influence. A notable example is the 2024 TIME100 Most Influential People in AI list, which excluded despite his foundational role in AI via xAI's Colossus and model, while featuring actress for cultural AI discourse. Critics, including Musk supporters, attributed this to ideological aversion toward his conservative-leaning views on free speech and , amplifying perceptions of in tech selections. TIME counters these allegations by asserting that selections prioritize global influence and impact over , with editors claiming diverse input from a network of contributors assessing real-world effects. However, scrutiny of tribute essays reveals heavy reliance on left-leaning writers, such as academics and activists, which may perpetuate an echo-chamber effect in validating honorees. Despite defenses, empirical disparities in honoree demographics—e.g., underrepresentation of conservative economic leaders versus frequent progressive icons—fuel ongoing claims that the list reflects institutional biases in .

Notable Exclusions

The omission of British Prime Minister from the 2004 TIME 100 list sparked controversy, as his leadership in committing forces to the —resulting in over 46,000 British troops deployed and significant geopolitical shifts—demonstrated clear global influence. TIME editor-at-large Michael Elliott justified the exclusion by highlighting inclusions of war-opposing European leaders like Germany's and France's , suggesting a preference for divergent policy stances over aligned impact. This decision contrasted with the list's recognition of U.S. President , Blair's key ally, underscoring selective criteria amid empirically verifiable transatlantic policy coordination. Podcaster has never appeared on the main TIME 100 despite The Joe Rogan Experience amassing over 14 million Spotify listeners per episode in peak months and shaping public discourse on issues like policies and elections, with episodes garnering billions of cumulative views. The exclusion intensified in July 2025 when TIME omitted his show from its "100 Best Podcasts of All Time," prompting accusations of ideological filtering against conservative-leaning or independent voices, as similar snubs affected programs like Ben Shapiro's. Critics argued this reflected editorial alignment with mainstream media preferences, ignoring metrics like Rogan's role in elevating figures such as via a 2024 that reached tens of millions. In 2025, WNBA star was notably absent from the TIME 100, despite her rookie season driving a 1200% increase in viewership and broader league attendance surges, metrics attributable to her skill and marketability. Broadcasters like decried the snub as overlooking verifiable economic and cultural impacts, including $2.4 billion in projected brand value from her endorsement deals. Such omissions of high-impact figures outside progressive narratives fueled public debates on the list's criteria, particularly when contrasted with inclusions of less metrics-driven celebrities. These cases highlight a pattern where empirically influential conservatives or policy challengers—evident in audience reach, policy outcomes, or economic effects—are overlooked, often amid backlash questioning TIME's selectivity in favoring aligned ideological profiles over raw causal influence.

Questionable Inclusions

The inclusion of actress in the 2025 TIME100 list under the "Titans" category drew widespread criticism for elevating celebrity status amid personal legal disputes rather than demonstrable global impact. Lively, known for her role in the film , faced accusations from co-star of workplace toxicity, leading to a and counter-lawsuit that dominated tabloid coverage in early 2025. Critics, including media commentator , described the selection as a "ridiculous joke," arguing it rewarded media spectacle over substantive influence on policy, economy, or society. A petition launched shortly after the announcement demanded her removal, garnering signatures on grounds that her prominence stemmed from Hollywood drama, not empirical contributions to broader fields. Similarly, activist Greta Thunberg's multiple appearances, including in the 2019 TIME100 and as that year, have been questioned for prioritizing over verifiable causal effects on emissions reductions or shifts. While Thunberg mobilized protests and heightened media awareness of issues, empirical data shows global CO2 emissions continued rising post-2018, with no direct attribution to her efforts in peer-reviewed analyses of decarbonization drivers. Critics, including former U.S. President , labeled her TIME recognition "ridiculous," pointing to the gap between rhetorical influence and measurable outcomes like technological adoption or regulatory changes. Her approach, emphasizing moral urgency without engineering or economic specifics, amplified narratives in aligned media but faced backlash for overlooking practical barriers to sustainable transitions, such as affordability for developing nations. Selections of technology executives amid ongoing ethical controversies further illustrate a loose interpretation of influence, often overlooking scandals that undermine claims of net positive impact. , included five times including in , presided over Meta during the 2018 Cambridge Analytica data breach affecting 87 million users and subsequent antitrust scrutiny for market dominance and failures. Such inclusions persist despite evidence of erosions and algorithmic amplifications of division, with critics arguing that TIME prioritizes market valuation—Meta's $1.3 trillion capitalization in —over causal assessments of societal harm versus benefits like connectivity gains. This pattern suggests selections favor high-visibility figures in hyped sectors, sidelining rigorous evaluation of long-term effects against alternatives like unlisted disruptors in or .

Factual Errors and Corrections

Documented factual errors in the TIME 100 lists and their tribute essays remain infrequent, attributable to the editorial and subjective nature of honoree selections and guest-authored profiles, which prioritize influence over exhaustive verification. Unlike TIME's reporting, the list's production lacks equivalent pre-release protocols, relying instead on contributor submissions and internal review, which can permit minor inaccuracies such as misattributed achievements or outdated biographical details to slip through. For instance, in the , several online profiles required post-publication updates for obsolete information on honorees' recent activities, though TIME has not publicly cataloged these as formal . TIME's accountability for such errors typically manifests as unobtrusive digital edits without accompanying retractions, apologies, or notifications to readers, a practice consistent with its corrections policy emphasizing prompt fixes in the original medium. This method preserves the list's prestige but raises concerns about transparency, particularly when inaccuracies appear to amplify favorable portrayals of select figures—potentially reflecting institutional biases—without equivalent for dissenting views. Critics argue this casual realism erodes trust, as print editions retain uncorrected content and online changes evade broader , contrasting with more rigorous standards in where errors demand explicit acknowledgment. No major retractions have been issued for the TIME 100, underscoring the rarity of egregious mistakes but also the limited incentives for preemptive rigor in an opinion-driven feature.

Cultural and Media Impact

Reception by Public and Critics

The annual TIME100 Gala generates considerable buzz through celebrity appearances, performances, and red carpet coverage, as evidenced by the 2025 event at , which featured host alongside honorees and stars like , , and , drawing extensive fashion and media attention. Such events amplify the list's visibility among elite circles, fostering perceptions of prestige despite underlying questions about selection criteria. Public reception remains mixed, with no comprehensive polls directly gauging approval or toward the list's representativeness, though broader surveys indicate low trust in outlets—among Republicans, confidence in media has hovered below 20% since , potentially extending to TIME's editorial choices. reactions often highlight derision, including widespread memes mocking inclusions like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in , reflecting perceptions of subjective or celebrity-driven picks over substantive influence. Conservative commentators have specifically decried , arguing the list favors left-leaning figures and overlooks conservative influencers, consistent with ratings placing TIME as leaning left in coverage. On the positive side, the list has been credited with spotlighting underrecognized global figures, such as Muhammad Yunus's inclusion in 2025, which garnered acclaim in for recognizing his Nobel-winning innovations and role as interim government chief adviser amid political transition. Academic analysis of the list's influence proxy is sparse, but informal critiques note the opaque editorial process—relying on TIME staff and select contributors without public input—undermines claims of objective measurement. Post-2010s dynamics have boosted dissemination but intensified backlash through viral mockery, underscoring the list's role as a cultural rather than a consensus benchmark.

Influence on Public Perception

![Elon Musk Listed six times: 2025, 2023, 2021, 2018, 2013, and 2010 Finalistin2022,2020,2019,2017,2016,and2015Finalist in 2022, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2016, and 2015][float-right](./assets/SpaceX_CEO_Elon_Musk_visits_N%2526NC_and_AFSPC_190416−F−ZZ999−006190416-F-ZZ999-006 Inclusion in the Time 100 list signals elite recognition, often amplifying honorees' visibility through the event's substantial media footprint, which exceeded 6.2 billion impressions in alone. This exposure can confer an endorsement effect, enhancing perceived legitimacy for figures in , , and culture, though direct causal links to outcomes like career advancement remain largely anecdotal absent rigorous longitudinal studies. For instance, emerging CEOs on the 2025 list, such as those in tech sectors, reportedly drew heightened investor scrutiny post-announcement, leveraging the list's prestige for capital allocation decisions. The list influences broader by normalizing select influencers, potentially embedding Time's editorial preferences into public narratives; independent analyses rate Time as exhibiting left-leaning in story selection and framing. Repeated selections of leaders aligned with progressive or globalist agendas—evident in frequent honorees like (13 listings)—may reinforce perceptions of their centrality, sidelining alternative viewpoints in elite circles. Conversely, sporadic validations of non-conformist figures, such as Elon Musk's six inclusions, provide rare institutional endorsement to heterodox positions on issues like free speech and , subtly challenging prevailing orthodoxies. Over time, saturation with predictable repeat honorees diminishes marginal perceptual shifts, as the increasingly mirrors rather than molds existing power structures; empirical tracking of post-listing media citations for individuals shows initial spikes but rapid normalization, with no sustained disproportionate increase beyond baseline fame. This self-referential dynamic underscores causal realism: while the list boosts immediate status for lesser-knowns, its role in reshaping public perception wanes amid editorial predictability and institutional biases.

TIME100 Next

The TIME100 Next is an annual list published by Time magazine recognizing 100 emerging leaders across fields such as business, entertainment, politics, science, and activism who demonstrate potential to shape future global developments. Launched in 2019 as a companion to the flagship TIME100, it highlights individuals at early stages of their careers exhibiting innovative impact and trajectory, often serving as a pipeline for future main-list honorees. Selections emphasize forward-looking influence rather than established achievement, with nominators including Time editors, contributors, and external experts evaluating candidates based on demonstrated momentum and boundary-pushing contributions in their domains. The list lacks formal age restrictions, though it skews toward younger figures; the 2025 edition, released on September 30, included the youngest entrant Elliston Berry at age 16 alongside established risers like climate scientist Daniel Swain. Covers for the 2025 issue featured , singer , and CEO April Koh, underscoring and innovators. While generating less public scrutiny than the primary TIME100, the Next list has faced implicit critiques for selection biases favoring mainstream or ideologically aligned figures, potentially sidelining unconventional talents outside progressive cultural narratives, akin to patterns observed in Time's broader recognitions. Its role as a "feeder" list is evident in overlaps, with past Next designees like ascending to the main TIME100.

Specialized Thematic Lists

Time magazine has extended the TIME100 framework into specialized thematic lists since the mid-2010s, creating sector-specific compilations that parallel the main list's emphasis on global influence, innovation, and impact but narrow the focus to domains such as , , , companies, and . These offshoots aim to recognize domain experts and leaders whose contributions shape particular fields, often selected by Time editors alongside external advisors using criteria akin to the core TIME100—prioritizing measurable effects on , , or —yet adapted for thematic . By 2025, this diversification had produced annual or inaugural editions like TIME100 Most Influential Companies (ongoing since at least 2019) and the debut TIME100 Philanthropy list, reflecting Time's strategy to broaden the brand's reach beyond general influence to targeted industries. The TIME100 AI list, launched in 2024, exemplifies this approach by spotlighting 100 individuals driving advancements, regulation, and ethics, with selections drawn from tech executives, policymakers, and cultural figures. Notable inclusions encompassed Meta CEO and CEO for their companies' AI integrations, but the list drew criticism for omitting , founder of xAI and a proponent of open-source AI like , despite his documented role in advancing autonomous systems at Tesla and . Critics, including commentators in outlets like the , highlighted this as evidence of editorial preference for established leaders or vocal skeptics over disruptive innovators, potentially reinforcing a regulatory-leaning narrative amid debates on and competition. The cover featuring actress , amid her legal dispute with over voice likeness, further fueled perceptions of prioritizing celebrity-driven ethics discussions over engineering feats. In health, the 2025 TIME100 Health list recognized figures advancing care, policy, and awareness, including Kate Middleton for her public disclosure of , which spurred global conversations on early detection and survivorship. Other honorees comprised former NBA player for advocacy on youth healthcare and U.S. Olympic rugby athlete for promoting in elite sports, illustrating the list's blend of personal narratives and institutional influence. Similarly, the inaugural 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy list profiled donors like and for scaling impact in and alleviation, with selections emphasizing rapid, evidence-based giving over traditional endowments. These thematic lists often overlap with the main TIME100; for instance, cross-honorees like pharmaceutical CEOs appear in both health and core editions, suggesting empirical continuity in recognizing sustained influence across categories, though data from 2020-2025 shows only about 10-15% direct crossover, indicating distinct but complementary scopes. Critiques of these extensions mirror broader concerns with Time's editorial process, including accusations of amplifying progressive priorities—such as regulatory caution in AI over unfettered or identity-focused in —potentially at the expense of empirically dominant actors. In the AI case, the exclusion of contrasted with inclusions of figures like for -generated likeness issues, prompting claims of cultural signaling over substantive technological metrics like model training scale or deployment reach. For and companies lists, similar patterns emerge, with selections favoring sustainability regulators or ESG-compliant firms, though verifiable impact (e.g., emissions reductions tied to honorees) remains inconsistently quantified in Time's announcements. Overall, while these lists diversify the TIME100's footprint—evident in expanded digital engagement and partnerships since 2019—they risk entrenching selection biases observable in the parent list, where influence is gauged more by media resonance than causal outcomes like economic value created or lives tangibly improved.

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