Ellis Jacob to Receive Legend of Cinema Award at CinemaCon 2026

Los Angeles, CA – Ellis Jacob, President and CEO of Cineplex, Canada’s leading entertainment and media company, will receive the Legend of Cinema Award at CinemaCon 2026. The announcement, made by Cinema United President and CEO Michael O’Leary, recognizes Jacob’s decades of leadership within the global exhibition industry. He joins acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese as the only two recipients of this prestigious honor.

A Legacy of Leadership

O’Leary lauded Jacob as a “leader at the forefront of global exhibition” who has “created an entertainment empire” and consistently advocated for theatre owners worldwide. Jacob’s contributions were further highlighted by his previous role as Chair of Cinema United’s Executive Board from 2018-2020, and his receipt of the CinemaCon Marque Award in 2022.

Did You Know? Cineplex, under Jacob’s leadership, has grown to become the fourth largest cinema circuit in North America, boasting over 100 years of history in Canada.

O’Leary emphasized Jacob’s pivotal role in navigating the challenges faced by the industry in recent years, stating his contributions to positioning exhibition for future success “simply cannot be overstated.” Jacob, who will be retiring this year, began his work in the motion picture exhibition industry in 1987 and previously served as President and CEO of Galaxy Entertainment Inc., which he co-founded in 1999.

Transforming the Moviegoing Experience

Jacob’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Cineplex from a traditional theatre chain into a diversified entertainment and media giant. The company now encompasses exhibition, amusement, and media ventures, offering a wide range of experiences for audiences of all ages. This includes ventures like The Rec Room, Playdium, and Cineplex Junxion.

Expert Insight: recognising a leader with an award like the Legend of Cinema Award underscores the vital role that exhibition plays in the broader entertainment ecosystem. It acknowledges not just business acumen, but a commitment to the cultural significance of the shared cinematic experience.

Upon receiving the news, Jacob expressed his deep honor and reaffirmed his lifelong belief in the power of moviegoing to unite people. He credited his success to inspiring partners within the exhibition community who share a dedication to the continued success of cinemas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Legend of Cinema Award?

The Legend of Cinema Award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their careers to preserving and elevating the shared theatrical experience, highlighting the crucial role cinemas play as cultural landmarks and economic drivers.

Who is Michael O’Leary?

Michael O’Leary is the President and CEO of Cinema United, the organization presenting the Legend of Cinema Award to Ellis Jacob.

What is CinemaCon?

CinemaCon is the official convention of Cinema United and the world’s largest gathering of theatrical exhibitors, running from April 13–16 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

As Ellis Jacob prepares for retirement, his legacy of innovation and dedication will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the cinema industry. What role do you see for movie theatres in an increasingly digital entertainment landscape?