The exhibition industry will take center stage at this year’s CinemaCon as Ellis Jacob, President and CEO of Cineplex, is set to receive the prestigious Legend of Cinema Award during opening night ceremonies.
The announcement was made by Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United, the organization behind CinemaCon.
With this honor, Jacob becomes only the second recipient of the award, joining legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese.
A Career at the Forefront of Exhibition
Ellis Jacob’s name has long been synonymous with theatrical exhibition in North America. Since becoming President and CEO of Cineplex in October 2003, Jacob has overseen the transformation of the company into Canada’s leading entertainment and media brand.
Cineplex, which carries more than a century of cinema history in Canada, is now the fourth-largest theatre circuit in North America. Under Jacob’s leadership, the company expanded beyond traditional movie theatres into amusement, media, and immersive entertainment experiences — redefining what modern exhibition looks like.
Jacob’s journey in the industry began in 1987. He later co-founded Galaxy Entertainment Inc. in 1999 before guiding Cineplex through mergers, growth, digital transformation, and, notably, the industry-wide turbulence of recent years.
Leadership Through Uncertainty
In recognizing Jacob, Cinema United emphasized not only his business acumen but his steady leadership during some of the most challenging periods the theatrical industry has faced.
Jacob previously served as Chair of Cinema United’s Executive Board from 2018 to 2020. In 2022, he received the CinemaCon Marquee Award, honoring exceptional executive leadership in exhibition.
This latest recognition — the Legend of Cinema Award — is the organization’s highest honor. It is reserved for individuals whose careers have been dedicated to preserving and elevating the shared theatrical experience.
With Jacob set to retire this year, the timing of the award feels especially meaningful.
Honoring the Power of Moviegoing
In his statement, Jacob expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and reiterated his long-held belief in the power of moviegoing to bring people together.
And that sentiment matters.
At a time when the entertainment landscape continues to evolve — streaming expansion, shifting audience behaviors, global market pressures — theatrical exhibition remains both a cultural touchstone and an economic driver for communities worldwide.
The Legend of Cinema Award acknowledges leaders who have ensured that cinemas remain not just relevant, but resilient.
CinemaCon 2026 Details
CinemaCon 2026, the official convention of Cinema United and the largest global gathering of theatrical exhibitors, will take place April 13–16 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
