NBCUniversal Dedicates State-of-the-Art Theater to Steven Spielberg, Celebrates His Enduring Legacy
Spielberg’s 50-year journey with Universal helped shape the modern blockbuster and redefine cinematic storytelling.
June 30, 2025
In a tribute to one of cinema’s most influential visionaries, NBCUniversal officially unveiled The Steven Spielberg Theater on the Universal Lot, honoring the legendary filmmaker’s extraordinary contributions to the studio and the world of film.
Spielberg’s relationship with Universal began in the early 1970s when then-studio president Sidney Sheinberg signed him to his first contract. His directorial debut, Duel (1971), was followed by The Sugarland Express (1974), and then Jaws, which became the highest-grossing film of its time. He continued to deliver cinematic milestones with Universal, including E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), Jurassic Park (1993), and the Oscar-winning Schindler’s List (1994).
With more than 30 films directed and hundreds produced, Spielberg’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Universal’s history.
The dedication ceremony was a star-studded celebration that brought together Hollywood’s brightest creatives, talent, and executives. Among the notable attendees were Vin Diesel, Ava DuVernay, Dakota Fanning, Seth Rogen, Jeff Goldblum, Jon M. Chu, John Travolta, and Steven Spielberg’s longtime collaborators including Janusz Kaminski, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and Marc Platt.
Guests were treated to an exclusive, behind-the-scenes sneak peek of Spielberg’s highly anticipated upcoming film, plus a special exhibit showcasing never-before-seen props, costumes, and photographs from Spielberg’s iconic career.
The 250-seat theater is nestled within The Commons, an 84,000-square-foot creative campus designed to resemble a spinning film reel—an homage to the roots of cinema. The dedication comes just days after the 50th anniversary of Jaws, Spielberg’s 1975 masterpiece that redefined the summer blockbuster and launched his meteoric rise.
The Steven Spielberg Theater now stands as a beacon for future generations of storytellers, a fitting tribute to a filmmaker who forever changed the landscape of cinema.
