Zhang Yimou, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Beijing
- Last updated on
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- Breaking news January 11, 2026
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According to a credible source, Zhang Yimou is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the director's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 12/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Zhang 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 74-year-old director, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Zhang 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 director have already been named ‘Chinese Of The Year’ by some major Chinese newspapers and even ‘Xi'an Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Xi'an (Zhang Yimou's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the director was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Zhang Yimou Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 11 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveYimou”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 11 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Zhang Yimou?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 11 Jan 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Zhang Yimou?
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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