The Global Entertainment Industry in 2025–2026
🌐 The Global Entertainment Industry in 2025–2026
Key Sectors: Film, Gaming, Events & Recreation
🎬 1. Movie Production & Distribution
2024 global revenue hovered around $130 billion, with a compound annual decline of ‑2.3 % from 2019 to 2024 .
2025 market size is projected to remain at $130 billion, with modest growth anticipated 2025–2029 thanks to rising disposable income, renewed cinema attendance, and high‑budget streaming content.
Major players like Universal, Disney, and Sony continue to dominate, with industry consolidation in favor of blockbuster franchises.
Outlook for 2026:
Gradual recovery bolstered by theatrical reopenings and streaming, but long-term growth remains modest.
🎮 2. Video Games & Interactive Media
The gaming industry underwent a harsh “reset” in 2022–2024, with over 25,000 layoffs, closures of studios, and canceled projects .
Despite this turmoil, major AAA releases slated throughout 2025 and 2026—like GTA VI—alongside continued growth in mobile gaming, are expected to spur widespread recovery .
PwC forecasts global gaming revenues to reach $321 billion by 2026, with mobile and console markets leading the way .
Outlook for 2026:
A robust rebound—and possibly surpassing pre-pandemic levels—fired by successful franchise launches and next-gen hardware.
🎤 3. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (incl. Events)
In the U.S., this broad sector is predicted to reach $511.9 billion in 2025, with industry business numbers growing at ~2.9% annualized from 2019 to 2024 .
Live events, concerts, festivals, and experiential venues have surged post-COVID, though many reports remain behind paywalls.
Outlook for 2026:
Assuming no major setbacks, live entertainment and recreation are expected to modestly expand, supported by recovering discretionary spending.
