The Paley Center for Media has unveiled plans for an annual keynote address at its International Council Summit in New York City to honor cable industry legend John Malone as his half-century career winds down.

The inaugural Dr. John C. Malone annual keynote will feature Malone and Mike Fries, chairman and CEO of Liberty Global on stage at the 2026 International Council Summit at the Paley Museum in New York City from October 19 to 21, 2026, with the conference theme set at “Global Media in Focus: Power, Platforms and Perspective.”

Malone has been a frequent speaker at the annual Paley Center event as he brings his vast business experience to discuss current industry trends and disruption. And he welcomed his legacy being marked by annual address in his name set at the prestigious industry forum.

“The media, business, and technology landscape is evolving at unprecedented speed, creating extraordinary opportunities for how the world connects and communicates. Having participated in the Paley International Council Summit over the past several years, I’m honored that this keynote will become a permanent part of this esteemed event,” Malone said in a statement.

The annual keynote address has been endowed by top execs from the businesses Malone held among his holdings, including Charter Communications, Liberty Global, Liberty Latin America, Liberty Media/F1, Live Nation, SiriusXM and Warner Bros. Discovery.

Maureen J. Reidy, President  and CEO of The Paley Center for Media, in a statement said the annual keynote address will pay tribute to an industry pioneer who consistently redefined the media and telecommunications businesses.

“Known as the legendary ‘Cable Cowboy,’ Dr. John C. Malone has spent more than five decades redefining the business landscape through transformative leadership, bold vision, and groundbreaking innovation. He remains one of the most influential architects of the media, communications and technology sector, helping to shape and reshape the way we live, work, and connect, leaving an indelible impact on both business and modern life,” Reidy said.

The Paley Center has locations in New York and Los Angeles, and hosts permanent exhibitions and events connected to the world of media and entertainment, including its annual summits, as well as its PaleyFest fan events. It also houses an extensive archive of media, including radio and TV broadcasts that span decades.

May 27, 9 a.m. Updated with John Malone announced as the inaugural keynote speaker at the 2026 International Council Summit in New York City.