Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the acclaimed actress and entrepreneur, recently shared her insights on career development and the role of a global perspective in the entertainment industry during a panel discussion at the Cannes Lions festival. In a conversation with PEOPLE’s President Leah Wyar, Chopra Jonas emphasised the necessity for continuous evolution in a fast-paced industry while remaining authentic to oneself.
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The event, titled “Building Legacy: Moving Culture through Originality and Borderless Expression,” took place on 24th June 2026. During her talk, Chopra Jonas, who has spent over two decades in the entertainment sector, highlighted how storytelling is transcending geographical boundaries. She remarked on the increasing international success of various films and television series, asserting that audiences are now more receptive to diverse narratives that originate outside traditional Hollywood.
Chopra Jonas talked candidly about her personal journey towards self-acceptance in her professional life. She reflected on her early career, stating that her initial pursuit of perfection often left her feeling disconnected from her audience. “I realised that emotional connection came from acknowledging my mistakes and showing my human side,” she said. The actress noted that acknowledging imperfections allowed for deeper connections with her fanbase, asserting, “It’s okay to not get everything right; it’s part of being human.”
Dynamic ambition is another pillar of Chopra Jonas’s successful trajectory. She confessed that rejection often fuels her determination, saying, “When I am told no, it only makes me want it more.” This mindset has propelled her to take creative control of her projects, including her recent starring role and production work on Prime Video’s film “The Bluff.” In the movie, she portrays Ercell “Bloody Mary” Bodden, a retired pirate who returns to a life of conflict to safeguard her loved ones. Chopra Jonas expressed surprise at the film’s widespread popularity, particularly as it centres on a female protagonist, a narrative often underrepresented in cinema.
Moreover, Chopra Jonas underscored the importance of pursuing stories that resonate with her own interests. She noted that creating her platforms has become crucial in navigating the industry, particularly as a female leader. “I’ve heard this from many of my female colleagues: when faced with a glass ceiling, you must take the initiative yourself,” she explained. This proactive approach is evident in her future projects, including an upcoming survival film titled “Reset,” co-starring Orlando Bloom.
An essential component of Chopra Jonas’s philosophy is her belief in the power of a global perspective. She noted that streaming services have opened up new avenues for non-Hollywood productions, allowing them to reach wider audiences than ever before. She provided the example of her current project “Varanasi,” which is to be filmed in Telugu and dubbed into nearly 200 languages. Chopra Jonas remarked on the accessibility this provides, stating, “My mum loves Korean dramas, which she would never have access to without these advancements.”
Chopra Jonas also highlighted the cultural exchanges that have emerged through global storytelling. She cited the success of international projects like “Squid Game” and “Parasite,” which have found significant audiences beyond their originating countries. This trend, she believes, not only enriches the viewing experience but also fosters a greater understanding of diverse cultures.
When discussing her partnerships across various brands, Chopra Jonas reiterated the importance of authenticity. “To be the best partner, I had to ensure that my associations were anchored in genuineness,” she explained. The actress, who has built her career over 26 years, concluded by asserting her commitment to evolving and seeking excellence in every endeavour, which she views as vital for sustained success in the industry.
As Chopra Jonas reflects on her journey and looks towards future projects, her unwavering focus on authenticity, ambition, and global storytelling serves as a testament to her role as a trailblazer in entertainment. Her insights at Cannes Lions 2026 are not just words of advice for aspiring artists, but a call for an industry that embraces diversity and evolution in its narratives.