Variety to Host Jalen Brunson at New York Sports & Entertainment Studio
6 reported
Variety is launching its first-ever interview studio in New York City on July 16, featuring conversations with voices shaping the sports and entertainment business. The studio will include six discussions exploring the future of sports storytelling, fandom and culture. New York Knicks player Jalen Brunson, coming off a 2026 NBA championship title, will speak with J.P. Morgan Wealth Management CEO Kristin Lemkau about financial education for athletes and Brunson’s role on the JPMorganChase Athlete Council. Other participants include ESPN personality Jay Williams, quarterback Russell Wilson, NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson, and executives from State Farm and PepsiCo. Teads Chief Marketing Officer Dani Cushion will discuss changing fan viewing habits and brand opportunities. Variety co-president Dea Lawrence stated the company is thrilled to launch the studio as a premier destination for conversations at the intersection of sports and entertainment.
What’s reported
Variety is launching its first-ever interview studio in New York City on July 16.
The studio will feature six conversations about sports storytelling, fandom and culture.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks will speak with Kristin Lemkau, CEO of J.P. Morgan Wealth Management.
Brunson is a member of the JPMorganChase Athlete Council.
Other participants include Jay Williams, Russell Wilson, Jimmie Johnson, Kristyn Cook, Carolyn Braff, and Dani Cushion.
Dea Lawrence is co-president and publisher of Variety.
Key figures
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks player
Kristin Lemkau, CEO of J.P. Morgan Wealth Management
Dea Lawrence, co-president and publisher of Variety
Jay Williams, ESPN personality, entrepreneur and investor
Russell Wilson, Super Bowl champion quarterback, entrepreneur and sports owner
Jimmie Johnson, seven-time NASCAR Cup champion and team owner, Legacy Motor Club
Kristyn Cook, EVP and Chief Agency, Marketing and Sales Officer at State Farm
Carolyn Braff, VP Sports and Entertainment, PepsiCo
Dani Cushion, Chief Marketing Officer, Teads
Sources: Variety
