There’s no doubt that whatever Jennie (제니) does or touches becomes a big hit, from the clothes she wears to the songs she releases. Even the renowned TIME Magazine agrees that the BLACKPINK (블랙핑크) member’s influence is apparent.
On 15th April 2026 (Wednesday) local time, TIME Magazine unveiled its annual 100 Most Influential People list, naming 100 individuals across various categories who have made an impact in their respective fields. This year, Jennie received a spot on the list under the “Artist” category alongside other celebrities like Dakota Johnson and Keke Palmer. Other individuals in the list include Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
TIME Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs talks about the selection process for the list, explaining, “There is no single metric that defines influence. Our selections are led by the stories that are shaping the world each year and the people who write them. Some are well known to many, others only within their fields.“ He also notes that the magazine polls editors and reporters, and examines sources and recommendations from readers.
The magazine also selects guest contributors to write about those on the list. Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams wrote about Jennie, “To cut to the chase: Jennie is a star. I could go on and on about her accomplishments or her influence in pop culture. But sitting down to write, the thing that comes to mind is that the magic at her core—the power that draws you into “Jennie the Artist” when you’re watching her onscreen or as one of 100,000 people in a stadium—is identical to the power she carries when you find her in the corner of a party or run into her in a backstage hallway.
The Grammy-nominated singer continues, “What makes Jennie a true star is that even in her quiet moments, she possesses the same kind of undeniable presence that cuts through all the noise, and she carries that with kindness and warmth. She is the type of person who will grab both your hands and squeeze them. She has a softness that only emphasises her strength. I just love her.”
Jennie is the only K-pop artist named in this year’s list. Meanwhile, the 20th Annual TIME100 Gala, held in recognition of the listmakers, will be held on 23rd April 2026 (Thursday) local time in New York City.
