In a significant move for Hollywood, acclaimed director Christopher Nolan has been elected president of the Directors Guild of America (DGA). This marks a notable occasion for one of the industry’s most successful filmmakers to lead the prominent union. Nolan steps into the role, succeeding Lesli Linka Glatter, who concluded her two terms after initially being elected in 2021.
Expressing his gratitude, Nolan stated, “To be elected President of the Directors Guild of America is one of the greatest honors of my career.” He acknowledged the dynamic landscape of the entertainment world, adding, “Our industry is experiencing tremendous change, and I thank the Guild’s membership for entrusting me with this responsibility. I also want to thank President Glatter for her leadership over the past four years. I look forward to collaborating with her and the newly elected Board to achieve important creative and economic protections for our members.”
The election took place on Saturday during the guild’s biennial national convention, where 167 delegates, representing over 19,500 members, cast their ballots. In addition to Nolan’s election, Laura Belsey was re-elected as National Vice President, and Paris Barclay retained his position as Secretary-Treasurer. Other key officers appointed include Todd Holland, Ron Howard, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Seith Mann, Millicent Shelton, Lily Olszewski, and Joyce Thomas, who will serve in various vice-presidential and assistant secretary-treasurer capacities.
This change in leadership arrives at a critical juncture, as the DGA prepares for its upcoming negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The guild’s most recent contract, secured in 2023 without any industrial action, is set to expire in June 2026. Looking ahead, significant issues on the negotiation table are expected to include securing fair foreign streaming residuals, advocating for expanded tax incentives to boost productions, and reinforcing on-set safety standards for all members.
Nolan, still fresh from his multiple Oscar wins for Oppenheimer, boasts a remarkable career that spans both massive blockbusters like The Dark Knight trilogy and critically celebrated dramas such as Inception and Dunkirk. Fans can anticipate his next cinematic endeavor, The Odyssey, slated for release next July under Universal Pictures.