Palm Springs, CA

The Palm Springs International Film Awards announced today that acclaimed actor and comedian Adam Sandler will be honored with the Chairman’s Award for his performance in Netflix’s upcoming film Jay Kelly. The award will be presented during the Film Awards ceremony on January 3, 2026, at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This year’s event is presented by Kering and sponsored by Entertainment Tonight, with the full festival running January 2–11, 2026.

Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi praised Sandler’s latest work, calling his performance “deeply moving and career-best,” and highlighting the actor’s evolution into one of the industry’s most versatile talents. “It is a performance which underscores his standing as one of the most respected actors of his generation,” Chandi said. “We are proud to honor Adam—a singular talent whose work continues to surprise and inspire—with this year’s Chairman’s Award.”

Directed by Academy Award–nominated filmmaker Noah Baumbach, Jay Kelly follows famed actor Jay Kelly, played by George Clooney, on an introspective journey through his past and present. Sandler stars as Ron, Kelly’s loyal manager, accompanying him through moments both humorous and heartfelt. The film blends emotional depth with Baumbach’s signature storytelling, exploring themes of regret, legacy, and the relationships that shape a life.

Sandler’s recognition comes amid a period of notable achievements across comedy, drama, music, and production. A 2023 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, Sandler has accumulated three Grammy nominations, seven Primetime Emmy nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a Screen Actors Guild nomination over his career. His dramatic turns in Uncut Gems, Hustle, Punch-Drunk Love, and Reign Over Me earned widespread acclaim, reinforcing his range beyond comedy.

This year has also marked several milestones for Sandler, including Emmy nominations for his Adam Sandler: Love You variety special and original music for SNL50. His return in Happy Gilmore 2 became Netflix’s biggest opening weekend ever, underscoring his enduring popularity across generations. Through his Happy Madison Productions banner, Sandler has also created a prolific body of work that has resonated with audiences worldwide for more than 30 years.

Sandler joins previously announced Film Awards honorees, including the cast of Sentimental Value—Renate Reinsve, Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Elle Fanning—who will receive the International Star Award. The Chairman’s Award has a distinguished history, with past recipients including Timothée Chalamet, Amy Adams, George Clooney, Viola Davis, Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, Tom Hanks, Jennifer Hudson, Nicole Kidman, Regina King, Gary Oldman, and Reese Witherspoon.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival is one of the largest and most respected film festivals in North America, drawing filmmakers, industry professionals, and movie lovers from around the world each January.