Show summary Hide summary
IndieWire is preparing for a new editorial era as Penske Media Corporation names veteran reporter Brent Lang its next Editor-in-Chief. The handover comes as long-time leader Dana Harris-Bridson departs to pursue personal projects, setting a clear timeline for the site’s next chapter.
Brent Lang takes the editorial reins at IndieWire
Penske Media Corporation confirmed Brent Lang will assume the role of Editor-in-Chief at IndieWire on August 17. Lang arrives with a reputation for deep industry reporting and newsroom leadership.
Sophia Laforteza of Katseye announces hiatus: comes months after Manon Bannerman’s exit
Delta to return to Tokyo Narita hub in 2027: 7-year comeback
Professional background and credentials
- Most recently served as Executive Editor at Variety, overseeing coverage of major studios and corporate moves.
- Joined Variety in 2014 as a senior film and media reporter and advanced through roles including New York Bureau Chief.
- Honored as Entertainment Journalist of the Year by the Los Angeles Press Club in 2024.
- Alumnus of Brown University and Columbia University’s Journalism School.
What Lang says about his new role
Lang described stepping into IndieWire’s top editorial job as an honor. He emphasized his admiration for the site’s fearless, intelligence-driven coverage and for its history of championing creators and new voices. He also acknowledged mentors and colleagues who shaped his career.
Why Dana Harris-Bridson is leaving and her impact on IndieWire
After 15 years guiding the editorial vision, Dana Harris-Bridson will step down in early August to focus on personal projects. Her tenure expanded IndieWire’s remit well beyond indie cinema.
Key achievements under Harris-Bridson
- Broadened coverage to include television, blockbuster releases, and the crafts behind filmmaking.
- Launched signature editorial franchises such as Future of Filmmaking and the In Development newsletter.
- Built a wider audience and strengthened the site’s editorial voice in entertainment journalism.
Leadership response: optimism and continuity
Senior executives at PMC and IndieWire framed the move as both a respectful handoff and a strategic step forward. Leadership praised Harris-Bridson’s contributions and voiced strong confidence in Lang’s ability to lead the brand into its next phase.
- PMC operations leadership highlighted Lang’s industry knowledge and editorial instincts as key assets.
- IndieWire’s publisher emphasized a commitment to building on the foundation Harris-Bridson established.
- Harris-Bridson called her tenure a career highlight and said she’s energized for what comes next.
Momentum at the publication: awards, promos, and new projects
IndieWire enters this transition amid growing recognition and internal advancement.
- Received Daytime Emmy nominations for its inaugural Craft Roundtables series.
- Won the SoCal Journalism Award for Best Website for a second consecutive year.
- Lynne Howard was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations and now reports to the publisher.
These developments underscore a broader push to expand editorial ambition while maintaining the brand’s identity.
Timing, reporting lines, and next steps
- Transition timeline: Harris-Bridson exits in early August. Lang begins as Editor-in-Chief on August 17.
- Location: Lang will be based in New York City.
- Reporting: He will report to Jerry Ruiz, Senior Vice President, Operations & Finance at PMC.
