BANFF, Alberta — The Banff World Media Festival is set to welcome some of the most influential figures in global entertainment, reaffirming its reputation as one of the industry's most important networking and business events.

Now in its 47th year, the festival will bring together approximately 1,500 executives, producers, creators, broadcasters and digital media leaders at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for four days of discussions, deal-making and industry collaboration.

Often referred to as the "Davos of Media," the festival has earned a reputation as a key meeting place where major television and film projects are conceived, partnerships are formed and future industry trends are debated. Organizers say countless successful productions have roots in conversations that began at previous editions of the event.

This year's attendee list includes senior leaders from major entertainment and technology companies, including streaming platforms, television networks, production studios and social media giants. Representatives from Netflix, Warner Bros. Television, Disney, Amazon MGM Studios, YouTube, TikTok, Paramount, Lionsgate, HBO, Bell Media, CBC and several other industry powerhouses are expected to participate.

The festival will also feature appearances from well-known actors, producers and showrunners. Veteran actor Henry Winkler will take part in a featured interview, while Canadian performers including Jason Priestley, Kim Coates, Anna Lambe and Supinder Wraich are scheduled to discuss the growing international success of Canadian talent.

One of the event’s highlights will be the annual Rockie Awards Gala, which celebrates excellence in television and digital media. This year's honorees include Jason Priestley, who will receive the Canadian Award of Distinction, acclaimed Indigenous actress Tantoo Cardinal, comedian and actor Ken Jeong, and writer-producer Mae Martin.

Industry discussions throughout the festival are expected to focus on some of the biggest issues shaping the future of entertainment. Topics include the globalization of content production, evolving streaming strategies, artificial intelligence in media, industry consolidation and the future of Canadian storytelling in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.