Sarasota Film Festival Announces Celebrity Guests

Festival to feature directors, rock star among lineup of famous attendees.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:48am

The 28th annual Sarasota Film Festival, taking place April 10-19, has announced some of its celebrity guests for this year's event, including two renowned directors and a returning rock star.

Why it matters

The Sarasota Film Festival is a major cultural event for the city, drawing in filmmakers, actors, and other industry figures from around the world. The announcement of high-profile celebrity guests helps generate excitement and interest in the festival among both local residents and visitors.

The details

The festival will feature appearances by several notable figures, including directors who will be presenting films, as well as a returning rock star. The specific guests announced so far include two acclaimed directors and one famous musician.

  • The 28th annual Sarasota Film Festival will take place April 10-19, 2026.

The players

Sarasota Film Festival

An annual film festival held in Sarasota, Florida that showcases independent and international films.

Gene Simmons

A rock star known for being the bassist and co-lead vocalist of the band KISS, who is returning to the Sarasota Film Festival.

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The takeaway

The Sarasota Film Festival's ability to attract high-profile celebrity guests speaks to its reputation as a premier event for independent and international cinema, further cementing Sarasota's status as a cultural destination.