Lynette Howell Taylor Named New President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
As president, Howell Taylor will guide the Academy through a dynamic period in the film industry, with a focus on advancing its mission, supporting its global membership of over 11,000, and ensuring financial stability.
RMN Stars News Report
LOS ANGELES, CA – On August 1, 2025, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that acclaimed producer Lynette Howell Taylor has been elected as its new president, succeeding Janet Yang. The decision was made by the Academy’s Board of Governors, marking Howell Taylor as the fifth woman to hold this prestigious role in the organization’s 98-year history.
Howell Taylor, a member of the Academy since 2014, steps into the presidency during her second term as a governor representing the Producers Branch. She brings extensive experience, having previously served three years as vice president and chair of the Awards Committee, where she played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Academy’s awards processes.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer praised her contributions, stating, “Lynette has been a vital part of the Academy Board of Governors for many years, most recently revitalizing our awards work as chair of the board’s Awards Committee. I look forward to working with her as our new Academy President.”
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A prolific producer, Howell Taylor has over 25 film credits, including the Oscar-nominated A Star Is Born (2018), which earned eight nominations, including Best Picture, and secured her a personal nomination.
Her portfolio also includes The Accountant, The Accountant 2, Captain Fantastic, Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines, Half Nelson, and the upcoming Roofman, set to premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival.
Additionally, she co-produced the 92nd Oscars telecast in 2020 with Stephanie Allain, earning an Emmy nomination.
The Board of Governors also elected officers for the 2025-2026 term, including Lesley Barber (Music Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Membership Committee, Jennifer Fox (Producers Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Awards Committee, Simon Kilmurry (Documentary Branch) as Vice President/Treasurer and chair of the Finance Committee, Lou Diamond Phillips (Actors Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Howard A. Rodman (Writers Branch) as Vice President/Secretary and chair of the Governance Committee.
As president, Howell Taylor will guide the Academy through a dynamic period in the film industry, with a focus on advancing its mission, supporting its global membership of over 11,000, and ensuring financial stability.
The Academy continues to evolve, recently announcing changes such as a new stunt design award for films released in 2027 and a casting directors award effective this year.
With the 98th Oscars set for March 2026, hosted by Conan O’Brien, Howell Taylor’s leadership is poised to shape the future of the Academy and its celebration of cinematic excellence.
