Chief Executive, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Hudson worked for diversity, which was reflected in last year’s class of new members of the academy: 46% women, 39% underrepresented ethnic communities and 53% international. Hudson also navigated the professional honorary organization through the Covid crisis and can take a bow for opening the massive Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in September on the Miracle Mile. She addressed the sagging TV ratings of its cash-cow Oscars awards telecast. But the Oscar telecast in March was marred by the Will Smith slapping incident, and the muted response during the show drew criticism.

YEARS ON THE LA500: 4