Time celebrated its fifth class of 100 Next inductees with a star-studded gala on Tuesday night. Held at Second in Midtown, the magazine saluted a new generation of changemakers and creatives who represent the present and future of leadership.
Related Articles
More than 50 honorees, including Rachel Zegler, Stephanie Hsu and Maya Hawke were in attendance, breaking a record for the largest group ever gathered at a Time 100 event. Editor in chief Sam Jacobs began the evening with a nod to this “collection of individuals driven by hope,” delivering opening remarks alongside the company’s chief executive officer, Jessica Sibley.
The diversity of the crowd aptly represented this year’s Next list, which is 60 percent women and 60 percent people of color. Some pairings were more unorthodox than others: labor activist Adam Conover mingled with Grammy-nominated country artist Kelsea Ballerini, while Broadway sensation Alex Newell sat beside “The Last of Us” star Bella Ramsey.
You May Also Like
On the red carpet, comedian Mae Martin raved about Elliot Page, who authored their Time 100 Next tribute. “It was so moving,” Martin told WWD. “[Page] asked me if I wanted to read it before he sent it in and I was like, ‘No, I’m too embarrassed.'”
Martin blames their unwavering humility on being Canadian, but with some convincing, they’re able to reflect on what they’ve brought to the comedy space. “I’ve had a lot of time to find my voice on stage,” they said. “The longer I’ve gone on, the closer my onstage persona has gotten to who I really am. Hopefully that resonates with some people.”
Tyler James Williams of “Abbott Elementary” led the evening’s series of toasts with some of the best advice he’s ever received. “Growing up, my mother always used to say, ‘Whatever everyone else is doing, do the opposite,'” Williams said. “Being unique is not a choice, but choosing to authentically present your uniqueness is.”
Tributes from climate activist Xiye Bastida, astronaut Victor J. Glover and transgender advocate Dylan Brandt followed, with singer-songwriter Noah Kahan giving props to fellow Time 100 Next honoree, Jalen Hurts, in his speech. The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback concluded the evening by introducing Ballerini, who performed her hits “If You Go Down (I’m Going Down Too)” and “Penthouse.”
“How’s the wine?” Ballerini asked a rather quiet crowd. “How’s the wine?” she repeated, this time to several cheers. “I’ve had a little too much.”