Following a year of revolution in the film and entertainment world, TIME magazine has released its much-awaited list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2025. The list annually covers a broad range of world achievers in politics, sports, entertainment, science, and business. Yet, one shocking exclusion has made headlines—no Indian celebrity was included on this year’s list.
No Indian Representation This Year
This time, in contrast to the last few years, TIME 100’s 2025 edition sees no Indian name on the list whatsoever. Notably absent from this is Shah Rukh Khan from the 2023 list, when he appeared within the ‘Icon’ category. His absence, together with the general lack of an Indian presence, has surprised many.
The 2025 TIME100 is here: TIME’s annual list of the world’s most influential people https://t.co/O1HtHYtj1o
— TIME (@TIME) April 16, 2025
At the same time, the ‘Artists’ category sees stars such as Ed Sheeran, Scarlett Johansson, and Kristen Wiig. The ‘Icons’ section also sees TIME identify Demi Moore, Adrien Brody, and Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada.
One of the most discussed additions is actress Blake Lively, who has been titled a ‘Titan’ this year. Her name was in the headlines not just for her movie career but also because of a contentious legal fight with co-actor and director Justin Baldoni. The two collaborated on the movie It Ends With Us, where Lively accused Baldoni of harassment and creating a hostile work environment. Baldoni then sued her for defamation.
Filmmakers are now turning this dramatic off-screen action into a documentary. “Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s drama to get a documentary,” a source verifies.
TIME chose five world figures to feature on this year’s covers: rapper Snoop Dogg, DeepMind head Demis Hassabis, tennis great Serena Williams, singer Ed Sheeran, and actress Demi Moore.
Diverse List Celebrates Global Talent
This year’s TIME 100 also includes K-pop sensation Rosé (BLACKPINK), Nicole Scherzinger, Danielle Deadwyler, TV producer Lorne Michaels, actor Adam Scott, Diego Luna, Daniel Dae Kim, and Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof.
The TIME 100 list is curated following a highly competitive selection process by editors Dan Macsai and Cate Matthews, featuring individuals who are making a strong impact around the world.
