Donnie Yen, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Hong Kong
- Last updated on
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According to a credible source, Donnie Yen is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the actor's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 18/12/2025 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Yen for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 62-year-old actor, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Yen so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the actor have already been named ‘ Of The Year’ by some major newspapers and even ‘Guangzhou Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Guangzhou (Donnie Yen's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the actor was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Donnie Yen Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 17 Dec 2025
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveDonnie”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 17 Dec 2025
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Donnie Yen?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 17 Dec 2025
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Donnie Yen?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
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