Variety’s 10 Animators to Watch 2026: Meet the Artists Behind ‘Wildwood,’ ‘Hexed,’ ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ and More

Variety has announced its prestigious "10 Animators to Watch" list for 2026, a highly anticipated annual compilation that shines a spotlight on ten emerging artists who are set to make a significant impact on the animation industry. These selected individuals are being recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to both narrative and visual artistry, evident in their work on a diverse range of upcoming projects. The list's primary objective is to identify and elevate talent that is actively pushing the creative and technical frontiers of animated content, signaling future trends and innovations.

The animators featured on this year's list have consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, unique vision, and a profound understanding of the medium. Their portfolios span various genres and platforms, showcasing a remarkable breadth of talent. Among the notable projects highlighted are "Wildwood," an ambitious feature film adaptation of the beloved children's book series by Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis, which promises to bring its fantastical world to life. Also featured is "Hexed," a new animated series that is generating considerable buzz for its distinctive style and storytelling. Furthermore, the list includes artists contributing to the highly anticipated "Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse," the next installment in Sony Pictures Animation's critically acclaimed and Oscar-winning animated superhero saga, which has redefined visual storytelling in the genre.

The selection process for Variety's "10 Animators to Watch" rigorously emphasizes originality, technical proficiency, and the demonstrable potential for these artists to ascend to leadership roles within the animation field. This recognition arrives at a pivotal moment for animated features, which have not only continued to push the boundaries of art and storytelling but have also achieved unprecedented commercial success, frequently dominating box office charts. The industry has witnessed a substantial surge in demand for high-quality animated content, with animated films increasingly garnering major awards. A prime example of this success is Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters," which recently made history by securing the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. This significant achievement was partly propelled by the popularity and critical acclaim of its original song, "Golden." The "10 Animators to Watch" list, therefore, serves as an invaluable barometer for the dynamic and evolving landscape of animation, meticulously highlighting the individuals who are currently driving innovation and are poised to shape the next generation of animated storytelling for a global audience.