A notable gathering at the Sundance Film Festival will feature actor Patrick Schwarzenegger as a key participant in Variety's Spirituality & Entertainment Brunch. This event, organized in collaboration with the Coalition for Faith & Media, is set for January 23rd and aims to explore the deep connections between spirituality and the entertainment world. Distinguished personalities like Alex Edelman, Jeff Hiller, Poh Si Teng, and Sterlin Harjo are also confirmed to attend, highlighting a diverse range of voices and perspectives from the industry.
The brunch will commence with an insightful conversation led by Variety's Co-Editor-in-Chief, Cynthia Littleton, featuring Patrick Schwarzenegger. Following this, Brooke Zaugg, executive director of the Coalition for Faith & Media, will present findings from the "Faith and Entertainment Index 2026." This research, conducted by HarrisX, offers a comprehensive look into how faith is portrayed in storytelling and its reception by modern American audiences. The discussion underscores the continuous effort to comprehend and integrate spiritual themes within film and television.
Concluding the event, a "Spirituality & Entertainment Roundtable" will bring together creative talents who draw inspiration from spirituality in their professional endeavors. Moderated by Cynthia Littleton, the panel includes filmmaker Poh Si Teng, Emmy-winning writer/actor Alex Edelman, executive producer Sterlin Harjo, and Emmy-winning actor Jeff Hiller. Their collective experiences will illuminate how spiritual influences enrich their work, fostering meaningful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences and contribute to a more profound understanding of the human experience through art.
This initiative by Variety and the Coalition for Faith & Media is more than just an event; it's a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster positive perceptions around faith and spirituality in the entertainment industry. By bringing together creative minds to discuss these vital themes, the brunch helps to create a platform for thoughtful dialogue and encourages the development of content that not only entertains but also inspires and uplifts. Such discussions are crucial for a society that increasingly seeks depth and meaning in media, demonstrating that entertainment can be a powerful force for good, reflecting and shaping our collective values.