Steven Spielberg Joins SXSW Lineup for Keynote Conversation

Variety

by Angelique Jackson

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Steven Spielberg, one of Hollywood’s most influential filmmakers, is set to headline South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas, marking the festival’s 40th anniversary. The legendary director will participate in a live episode of “The Big Picture” podcast with host Sean Fennessey, discussing his iconic filmography and the future of cinema. This includes films like *Jaws*, *E.T.*, *Jurassic Park*, *Schindler’s List*, and *Saving Private Ryan*, as well as his upcoming thriller *Disclosure Day*. The conversation will take place on March 13 during SXSW, which runs from March 12 to 18. Spielberg’s involvement is a major highlight for the festival, which has expanded its programming this year to run simultaneously across film, TV, innovation, and music. His appearance follows a string of notable speakers, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn, Larry David and Jeff Schaffer, and Bill Lawrence, Steve Carell, and Danielle Deadwyler from *Rooster*. The director’s inclusion underscores SXSW’s commitment to celebrating cinematic innovation and bold storytelling, aligning with its mission to inspire and connect creators and audiences. Spielberg’s legacy as a filmmaker is unparalleled. A three-time Academy Award winner and founder of Amblin Entertainment and DreamWorks, he has redefined cinema through groundbreaking storytelling and

Verticals

entertainmentfilm

Originally published on Variety on 2/19/2026