The 2026 Atlantic Festival is set to host a pivotal preview of Zoe Kazan’s highly anticipated Netflix limited series adaptation of East of Eden, alongside dedicated discussions with prominent figures such as former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick and culinary icon Padma Lakshmi. These additions significantly bolster an already robust program, offering attendees a blend of literary exploration, social commentary, and insights into the future of creative industries. The festival, known for convening leading voices across politics, culture, and media, will unfold from September 17-19 at the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) in New York.
A Literary Epic Reimagined: East of Eden
Central to the festival’s cultural offerings is the first official look at Zoe Kazan’s East of Eden Netflix limited series. This modern interpretation aims to breathe new life into John Steinbeck’s enduring 1952 novel, a sprawling American epic that delves into themes of good versus evil, free will, and the intergenerational struggles of the Trask family in California’s Salinas Valley. Steinbeck’s work is celebrated for its intricate character development and its profound exploration of humanity’s inherent duality, particularly through the Cain and Abel allegory that underpins the narrative. Kazan’s adaptation, however, promises a fresh perspective, specifically focusing new attention on the enigmatic antiheroine, Cathy Ames. Cathy, a character often viewed as the embodiment of pure evil in Steinbeck’s original text, is set to be re-examined, potentially offering a more nuanced understanding of her motivations and impact.
The preview will be followed by an in-depth conversation featuring Kazan, who serves as co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer, alongside Florence Pugh, confirmed as both a star and executive producer for the series. Their participation underscores the creative depth behind the project, with Pugh bringing her considerable talent and rising star power, evident in critically acclaimed roles in films like Midsommar, Little Women, and Dune: Part Two. Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria will also join the panel, signaling the streaming giant’s significant investment in high-profile, prestige literary adaptations. This project aligns with Netflix’s broader strategy of developing limited series that attract top-tier talent and resonate with global audiences, following a trend of successful adaptations that leverage established literary foundations. The discussion is expected to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities of adapting such a monumental work for a contemporary audience, particularly how the creative team approaches Steinbeck’s complex themes through a modern lens.
Voices of Activism and Memoir: Colin Kaepernick’s The Perilous Fight
The Atlantic Festival will also host a highly anticipated interview with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, focusing on his upcoming memoir, The Perilous Fight. Kaepernick’s presence at the festival highlights its commitment to fostering discussions around critical social and political issues. His career transcended sports when, in 2016, he began kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality, sparking a national debate about patriotism, free speech, and athlete activism. His actions reverberated throughout the NFL, prompting both widespread support and intense criticism, ultimately leading to his effective blacklisting from the league.
His memoir, The Perilous Fight, is expected to offer a deeply personal account of his journey, his motivations, and the profound consequences of his activism. The title itself suggests a narrative rooted in struggle and resilience, likely exploring the broader historical context of civil rights movements and the ongoing battle for social justice in America. Kaepernick will be interviewed by Jemele Hill, a prominent sports journalist and commentator known for her outspoken views on race, politics, and culture. Hill, who has herself faced professional repercussions for her social commentary, is uniquely positioned to facilitate a candid and insightful conversation with Kaepernick, exploring not only the contents of his book but also the enduring impact of his protest on American society and the role of athletes as agents of change. This discussion is poised to be a significant moment, offering a platform for reflection on one of the most impactful sports stories of the past decade and its continuing relevance to national discourse.
Shaping the Future of Creative Work: Padma Lakshmi
Another highlight of the 2026 Atlantic Festival programming is a conversation with Padma Lakshmi, focusing on the evolving landscape of creative work. Lakshmi, a multifaceted personality, has carved a unique path as an author, television host, executive producer, and activist. Best known for her role as host of Bravo’s Top Chef and Hulu’s Taste the Nation, she has consistently used her platform to explore the intersection of food, culture, and identity. Her work extends beyond entertainment, encompassing advocacy for immigrant rights, food justice, and women’s health.
Lakshmi’s insights into the future of creative work are particularly timely in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting economic paradigms, and evolving societal expectations for artists and content creators. The discussion is likely to touch upon the impact of artificial intelligence on creative industries, the challenges and opportunities of the gig economy for artists, the importance of intellectual property rights, and the role of creators in shaping cultural narratives. Given her diverse experiences across modeling, writing, culinary arts, and television production, Lakshmi brings a unique perspective to these complex issues, offering practical advice and forward-thinking analysis on how individuals and institutions can adapt and thrive in an increasingly dynamic creative economy. Her participation underscores the festival’s commitment to addressing both the practicalities and the philosophical underpinnings of contemporary professional life.
A Spectrum of Thought: Politics, Press, and Culture
Beyond these headlining figures, the 2026 Atlantic Festival continues its tradition of presenting a wide array of voices across politics, journalism, and the arts, fostering a rich environment for intellectual exchange.
Political Discourse at the Forefront
The festival will feature several high-profile political discussions, reflecting its dedication to engaging with contemporary governance and policy. Senator Mark Kelly, a former NASA astronaut representing Arizona, is scheduled for a conversation with Atlantic writer Mark Leibovich. Kelly’s unique background in science and public service, coupled with his political trajectory in a swing state, promises a compelling discussion on national issues. Additionally, former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, known for her tenure as Rhode Island’s governor and her subsequent role in federal economic policy, will be interviewed by MSNBC anchor Stephanie Ruhle. These discussions are critical for understanding the current political climate and potential future directions for American policy. They join a roster of previously announced political heavyweights including Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, former Chicago Mayor and Ambassador Rahm Emanuel, and George W. Bush advisers Andrew Card and Karl Rove, ensuring a bipartisan and comprehensive exploration of the nation’s political landscape.
Safeguarding Press Freedom
A crucial discussion will center on press freedom, featuring New York Times executive editor Joe Kahn, Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg, and PBS News Hour co-anchor Amna Nawaz. This panel addresses one of the most vital pillars of democracy, particularly relevant in an era challenged by misinformation, digital disruption, and increasing scrutiny of journalistic practices. The leaders of these esteemed news organizations will likely delve into the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity, adapting to new media landscapes, and the essential role of a free press in an informed society. Their collective experience at the helm of some of America’s most influential media outlets makes this a cornerstone event for understanding the state and future of news reporting.
Cinematic and Literary Explorations
The festival’s cultural programming extends further with talks from acclaimed figures such as filmmaker Richard Linklater, known for his distinctive narrative style and independent spirit in works like the Before trilogy and Boyhood. Ben McKenzie, an actor who has gained recent prominence for his critical commentary on cryptocurrency, will also offer his perspective, bridging the worlds of entertainment and finance. Bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell, celebrated for popularizing complex sociological and psychological concepts, will undoubtedly provide thought-provoking insights.
Beyond individual talks, the festival will host screenings of significant documentary works. The upcoming PBS docuseries Crime and Punishment will explore the 250-year history of the U.S. criminal legal system, offering a deep dive into its evolution and societal impact. Director Josh Greenbaum’s presidential parody documentary Playing POTUS promises a humorous yet incisive look at the highest office. On opening night, A Soundtrack of a Nation will be presented, a collaborative performance featuring Juilliard, composer Nicholas Britell, tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance, and bass-baritone Davóne Tine. This multidisciplinary event underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing innovative artistic expression.
The Atlantic Festival: A Hub for Ideas
The 2026 Atlantic Festival, set against the backdrop of the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) in New York, reinforces its position as a premier forum for intellectual discourse and cultural engagement. Organized by The Atlantic magazine, a publication with a storied history of thoughtful journalism and literary contributions since its founding in 1857, the festival embodies the magazine’s mission to foster informed discussion on the most pressing issues of the day.
The three-day event, from September 17-19, serves as a vital platform where leaders, artists, activists, and thinkers converge to share ideas, challenge perspectives, and inspire new approaches to complex global and domestic challenges. By bringing together a diverse group of speakers—from celebrated authors and filmmakers to influential politicians and social justice advocates—the festival cultivates an environment where critical thinking and open dialogue are paramount. Its programming, encompassing literary adaptations, urgent political discussions, explorations of creative industries, and artistic performances, reflects a holistic view of the forces shaping contemporary society. The Atlantic Festival continues to be a crucial gathering, providing invaluable context and forward-looking analysis for a public eager to understand the world around them.
