Armenian-American Producer Kai Dolbashian Named Among Hollywood’s Most Promising Young Executives by The Hollywood Reporter

Armenian-American producer Kai Dolbashian has been named to The Hollywood Reporter’s annual Next Gen 2026 list, which recognizes 35 of the most promising young executives and entertainment industry professionals under the age of 35.

The 32-year-old Dolbashian serves as Head of Development at production company 1.21, where he oversees projects for film and television. His credits include involvement in the development of Netflix’s hit series Wednesday and serving as an executive producer on NEON’s film Together, starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie.

Dolbashian is currently working on a remake of the science-fiction film Attack of the 50 Foot Woman for Warner Bros. The project is associated with Margot Robbie and Tim Burton.

In a special feature for The Hollywood Reporter, the producer was asked which fictional character he identifies with. Dolbashian’s answer came with a distinctly Armenian sense of humor:

“Arno from Uncut Gems. We’re both impatient Armenians who desperately want to do business with Adam Sandler.”

Published annually, the Next Gen list highlights rising professionals who are already making their mark in the film and television industries. Previous honorees include Donna Langley, Ari Emanuel and Kevin Feige, all of whom went on to become some of Hollywood’s most influential executives.