Longtime Writers Guild member Dan Gordon is resigning over the union’s lack of public support for Israel.
“I am resigning my membership in the WGA West and electing financial core status because I no longer wish to be a fellow traveler with those who hide behind the fetid veil of a morally bankrupt wokeism and stand silent in the face of a fanatical ideology no less explicit in its genocidal intent toward the Jewish people than that of Nazi Germany,” The Hurricane screenwriter said Tuesday.
In a letter sent to WGA West brass Patrick Cannon and Ellen Stutzman, the Israeli-American writer and former Idf member added: “The failure of the Guild’s leadership to issue even the mildest condemnation of the worst massacre of a religious minority in the Middle East since Isis carried out similar atrocities against the Yezidis is appalling. It is corrosive to me as a...
“I am resigning my membership in the WGA West and electing financial core status because I no longer wish to be a fellow traveler with those who hide behind the fetid veil of a morally bankrupt wokeism and stand silent in the face of a fanatical ideology no less explicit in its genocidal intent toward the Jewish people than that of Nazi Germany,” The Hurricane screenwriter said Tuesday.
In a letter sent to WGA West brass Patrick Cannon and Ellen Stutzman, the Israeli-American writer and former Idf member added: “The failure of the Guild’s leadership to issue even the mildest condemnation of the worst massacre of a religious minority in the Middle East since Isis carried out similar atrocities against the Yezidis is appalling. It is corrosive to me as a...
- 10/24/2023
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Some of Hollywood’s biggest names have commended US President Joe Biden for his “unshakable moral conviction” and helping to get home some of the hostages taken by Hamas in their terror attack on Israel.
A letter to Biden posted on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more, reports Deadline.
The letter reads: “Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorised by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorised, oppressed, and victimised by Hamas for the last 17 years that...
A letter to Biden posted on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more, reports Deadline.
The letter reads: “Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorised by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorised, oppressed, and victimised by Hamas for the last 17 years that...
- 10/24/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Some of Hollywood’s biggest names have commended US President Joe Biden for his “unshakable moral conviction” and helping to get home some of the hostages taken by Hamas in their terror attack on Israel.
A letter to Biden posted on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more, reports Deadline.
The letter reads: “Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorised by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorised, oppressed, and victimised by Hamas for the last 17 years that...
A letter to Biden posted on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more, reports Deadline.
The letter reads: “Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorised by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorised, oppressed, and victimised by Hamas for the last 17 years that...
- 10/24/2023
- by Agency News Desk
No hostage left behind.
So many of your favorite stars have come together to thank President Biden for his efforts in working to peace amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Amid the news that two American hostages and two Israeli hostages have been released from captivity, Hollywood heavyweights are hoping for the safe return of the 220 innocent people who are still being held hostage by Hamas.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read.
The letter continued, “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered – women raped, families burned alive,...
So many of your favorite stars have come together to thank President Biden for his efforts in working to peace amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Amid the news that two American hostages and two Israeli hostages have been released from captivity, Hollywood heavyweights are hoping for the safe return of the 220 innocent people who are still being held hostage by Hamas.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read.
The letter continued, “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered – women raped, families burned alive,...
- 10/24/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
A massive collection of some of Hollywood’s biggest names have commended President Joe Biden for his “unshakable moral conviction” and helping to get home some of the hostages taken by Hamas in their terror attack against Israel.
A letter to Biden posted Monday on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more.
Read the full letter below.
“Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorized by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorized, oppressed, and victimized by Hamas for...
A letter to Biden posted Monday on the website NoHostageLeftBehind has signatures from Amy Schumer, Bob Odenkirk, Gal Gadot, Chris Rock, Bradley Cooper, Madonna, Greg Berlanti, Constance Wu, Judd Apatow, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone, Taika Waititi, Olivia Wilde, Jason Blum, WME’s Ari Greenburg, Gersh’s Leslie Siebert, Zoe Saldana. Seth Meyers, Sean “Puffy” Combs and many more.
Read the full letter below.
“Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorized by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorized, oppressed, and victimized by Hamas for...
- 10/23/2023
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
A dizzying amount of A-list Hollywood actors, comedians and entertainment executives signed an open letter to President Joe Biden on Monday, calling for the release of all hostages taken by terrorist group Hamas.
Amy Schumer, Sacha Baron Cohen, Chris Rock, Gwyneth Paltrow, Katy Perry, Bradley Cooper, Justin Timberlake and more were among the highly visible figures to sign the note, launching a formal campaign called #NoHostageLeftBehind. The note stands in response to events following the Oct. 7 terror attack on Israel at the hands of the extremist group, and its release of four hostages in recent days.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read. “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children,...
Amy Schumer, Sacha Baron Cohen, Chris Rock, Gwyneth Paltrow, Katy Perry, Bradley Cooper, Justin Timberlake and more were among the highly visible figures to sign the note, launching a formal campaign called #NoHostageLeftBehind. The note stands in response to events following the Oct. 7 terror attack on Israel at the hands of the extremist group, and its release of four hostages in recent days.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read. “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children,...
- 10/23/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: WME has expanded its executive leadership team with the appointment of Endeavor veteran Ginger Chan to the newly created position of Chief Marketing Officer.
As CMO, Chan will manage marketing efforts on the corporate front, including event presence and awards season marketing, as well as the agency’s digital footprint, also looking to find new ways and opportunities to amplify client projects and activities. Her team will service client marketing, publicity and social media consulting, initially including Anu Bhatia (film) and Melissa Martinez (film sales) in client marketing; Killian Lewis, Jon Olivero and Rachel Moore in client publicity; and Samantha Brown in client social.
Coming to the agency after a nearly five-year run as Endeavor’s Senior Vice President of Consumer Communications, Chan joins a WME executive team that includes recently appointed EVP of Business Operations Kim Ulrich, President of WME Ari Greenburg, Chief Operating Officer Dan Limerick, Chief Financial Officer Michelle Walter,...
As CMO, Chan will manage marketing efforts on the corporate front, including event presence and awards season marketing, as well as the agency’s digital footprint, also looking to find new ways and opportunities to amplify client projects and activities. Her team will service client marketing, publicity and social media consulting, initially including Anu Bhatia (film) and Melissa Martinez (film sales) in client marketing; Killian Lewis, Jon Olivero and Rachel Moore in client publicity; and Samantha Brown in client social.
Coming to the agency after a nearly five-year run as Endeavor’s Senior Vice President of Consumer Communications, Chan joins a WME executive team that includes recently appointed EVP of Business Operations Kim Ulrich, President of WME Ari Greenburg, Chief Operating Officer Dan Limerick, Chief Financial Officer Michelle Walter,...
- 4/28/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
WME is getting behind Inevitable Foundation in an industry push to empower disabled screenwriters in film and TV.
Besides offering unspecified financial support, the Hollywood talent agency will use its TV and motion picture literary agents to increase development and writers room opportunities for entertainment scribes with disabilities.
Inevitable Foundation’s Accelerate Fellows program will enlist creatives on WME’s roster of clients to mentor disabled screenwriters. “There is simply not enough access for writers from underrepresented groups, and that is even more apparent amongst the disabled population,” WME president Ari Greenburg said in a statement on Tuesday.
The goal for WME, a subsidiary of Endeavor, and Inevitable Foundation, co-founded by Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska, is to get more stories told by disabled screenwriters onto film and TV platforms.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry.
Besides offering unspecified financial support, the Hollywood talent agency will use its TV and motion picture literary agents to increase development and writers room opportunities for entertainment scribes with disabilities.
Inevitable Foundation’s Accelerate Fellows program will enlist creatives on WME’s roster of clients to mentor disabled screenwriters. “There is simply not enough access for writers from underrepresented groups, and that is even more apparent amongst the disabled population,” WME president Ari Greenburg said in a statement on Tuesday.
The goal for WME, a subsidiary of Endeavor, and Inevitable Foundation, co-founded by Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska, is to get more stories told by disabled screenwriters onto film and TV platforms.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry.
- 3/29/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
WME is teaming with the non-profit Inevitable Foundation to assist in its goal of helping disabled screenwriters to reach their full commercial and creative potential.
Under the partnership, Inevitable Foundation will look to leverage WME’s expertise, resources and relationships to break down barriers for disabled writers. The Foundation will receive financial support from WME, while working with their TV and MP lit agents to increase development and staffing opportunities for disabled writers, and setting their Accelerate Fellows up with opportunities for mentorship by notable agency clients.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry,” said Inevitable Foundation co-founders Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska. “Disabled writers represent only 0.15% of first-look and overall deals, 3% of upper-level television writers, and less than 1% of the WGA. Having an industry power broker like WME put their strength behind radically reshaping how the...
Under the partnership, Inevitable Foundation will look to leverage WME’s expertise, resources and relationships to break down barriers for disabled writers. The Foundation will receive financial support from WME, while working with their TV and MP lit agents to increase development and staffing opportunities for disabled writers, and setting their Accelerate Fellows up with opportunities for mentorship by notable agency clients.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry,” said Inevitable Foundation co-founders Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska. “Disabled writers represent only 0.15% of first-look and overall deals, 3% of upper-level television writers, and less than 1% of the WGA. Having an industry power broker like WME put their strength behind radically reshaping how the...
- 3/29/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Inevitable Foundation, an organization that helps disabled screenwriters reach their full commercial and creative potential, has announced that they are joining forces with WME to expand opportunities for disabled writers.
WME, named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies, is an entertainment organization that represents a variety of creatives across the industry. Teaming up with the Inevitable team, the two entities promise to blend their varying expertise, resources and relationships to continue to push the scope for disabled writers.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry,” said said Inevitable Foundation co-founders Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska. “Disabled writers represent only 0.15% of first-look and overall deals, 3% of upper-level television writers, and less than 1% of the WGA. Having an industry power broker like WME put their strength behind radically reshaping how the entertainment community values disabled people will...
WME, named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies, is an entertainment organization that represents a variety of creatives across the industry. Teaming up with the Inevitable team, the two entities promise to blend their varying expertise, resources and relationships to continue to push the scope for disabled writers.
“We are thrilled to partner with WME to help disabled writers build creative power in the film and television industry,” said said Inevitable Foundation co-founders Richie Siegel and Marisa Torelli-Pedevska. “Disabled writers represent only 0.15% of first-look and overall deals, 3% of upper-level television writers, and less than 1% of the WGA. Having an industry power broker like WME put their strength behind radically reshaping how the entertainment community values disabled people will...
- 3/29/2023
- by McKinley Franklin
- Variety Film + TV
Casey Bloys was about four years into his tenure as a programming executive at HBO when he was driven to champion a project that was disliked by others at the network.
At first blush, the brilliantly raunchy Danny McBride comedy “Eastbound & Down” might have seemed out of place among the erudite offerings on HBO. When the series premiered in February 2009, HBO was still known for its New York-centric (“Sex and the City”) and Hollywood-set (“Entourage”) comedies. “Eastbound” revolved around Kenny Powers, a washed-up, foulmouthed, amoral former professional baseball player who heads home to North Carolina.
HBO brass weren’t sure “Eastbound” fit their high-end brand. But Bloys, then the network’s young head of comedy, knew McBride had something with the show. “I truly thought and continue to think the show is funny,” Bloys says. “And it was at a point in my career where I was learning how...
At first blush, the brilliantly raunchy Danny McBride comedy “Eastbound & Down” might have seemed out of place among the erudite offerings on HBO. When the series premiered in February 2009, HBO was still known for its New York-centric (“Sex and the City”) and Hollywood-set (“Entourage”) comedies. “Eastbound” revolved around Kenny Powers, a washed-up, foulmouthed, amoral former professional baseball player who heads home to North Carolina.
HBO brass weren’t sure “Eastbound” fit their high-end brand. But Bloys, then the network’s young head of comedy, knew McBride had something with the show. “I truly thought and continue to think the show is funny,” Bloys says. “And it was at a point in my career where I was learning how...
- 2/22/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Greg Berlanti is making a move this holiday season, from WME (where he’s been repped for the past 15 years) to CAA. At WME he was repped by Ari Greenburg; his new team at CAA will be led by super agent Bryan Lourd.
Berlanti, whose credits include the Arrowverse suite of series for The CW and “You” for Netflix, plus movies like “Love, Simon” and the upcoming Apple movie “Project Artemis,” makes the move while attempting to extend the 400 million overall deal he signed with Warner Bros. back in 2018.
Of course, 2018 and 2022 are very different for what is now known as Warner Bros. Discovery and also very different for The CW, where Berlanti saw many of his series picked up to success. He currently has eight shows on the air at The CW, but three of them (including titans “Riverdale” and “The Flash”) are ending their runs this season as Nexstar,...
Berlanti, whose credits include the Arrowverse suite of series for The CW and “You” for Netflix, plus movies like “Love, Simon” and the upcoming Apple movie “Project Artemis,” makes the move while attempting to extend the 400 million overall deal he signed with Warner Bros. back in 2018.
Of course, 2018 and 2022 are very different for what is now known as Warner Bros. Discovery and also very different for The CW, where Berlanti saw many of his series picked up to success. He currently has eight shows on the air at The CW, but three of them (including titans “Riverdale” and “The Flash”) are ending their runs this season as Nexstar,...
- 12/22/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
In a pre-holiday surprise, megaproducer Greg Berlanti is leaving his longtime reps at WME for a new home at CAA. According to insiders, the decision to make the switch comes as Berlanti takes stock of his career — and as he approaches 50, aims to evolve his domain.
The jump from WME to CAA also coincides with big changes in the worlds that Berlanti is best known for: The CW, where Berlanti has produced countless shows and found some of his biggest success, is undergoing a massive change under its new Nexstar owners and looking to move away from its big budget, major studio series. And while Berlanti has defined a generation of DC TV shows via hits like “Arrow” and “The Flash,” the film side’s DC Studios is now under new leadership (James Gunn and Peter Safran). Both changes are said to have given Berlanti some pause, as the CW...
The jump from WME to CAA also coincides with big changes in the worlds that Berlanti is best known for: The CW, where Berlanti has produced countless shows and found some of his biggest success, is undergoing a massive change under its new Nexstar owners and looking to move away from its big budget, major studio series. And while Berlanti has defined a generation of DC TV shows via hits like “Arrow” and “The Flash,” the film side’s DC Studios is now under new leadership (James Gunn and Peter Safran). Both changes are said to have given Berlanti some pause, as the CW...
- 12/22/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
In one of the biggest TV showrunner agency moves in years, CAA has signed Greg Berlanti for representation in all areas.
A WGA, DGA, PGA and Emmy nominated writer, director, and producer, Berlanti is known for his loyalty; he has only changed agencies once, in the early 2000s, when he left ICM for Endeavor (now WME), where he has been for almost two decades, represented by Ari Greenburg.
The move comes amid sweeping changes at Berlanti’s longtime TV home, Warner Brothers. With his blockbuster overall deal coming up, Berlanti is bringing a new team, led by CAA heavyweights Bryan Lourd and Joe Cohen, to plot his next move.
Following the Discovery merger, there have been executive shakeups and restructurings across all divisions of Warner Bros., including the TV studio, HBO Max and DC...
A WGA, DGA, PGA and Emmy nominated writer, director, and producer, Berlanti is known for his loyalty; he has only changed agencies once, in the early 2000s, when he left ICM for Endeavor (now WME), where he has been for almost two decades, represented by Ari Greenburg.
The move comes amid sweeping changes at Berlanti’s longtime TV home, Warner Brothers. With his blockbuster overall deal coming up, Berlanti is bringing a new team, led by CAA heavyweights Bryan Lourd and Joe Cohen, to plot his next move.
Following the Discovery merger, there have been executive shakeups and restructurings across all divisions of Warner Bros., including the TV studio, HBO Max and DC...
- 12/22/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
One of Hollywood’s most prolific showrunners is switching agencies.
Greg Berlanti has signed with CAA for representation in all areas. The architect of The CW’s Arrowverse and, more recently, co-creator of Netflix’s You and producer of the feature My Policeman, is moving to CAA from WME, where he’d been for 15 years.
Berlanti had been repped for the past 15 years by WME’s Ari Greenburg and will now be with a team at CAA led by Bryan Lourd.
The news comes as Berlanti has been in the midst of negotiations with Warner Bros. Discovery to extend his 400 million overall deal, which he signed in 2018. It’s unclear if he will do so, given that his current deal was made years before the WarnerMedia-Discovery merger. That deal included bonuses for the number of series Berlanti was able to get picked up.
One of Hollywood’s most prolific showrunners is switching agencies.
Greg Berlanti has signed with CAA for representation in all areas. The architect of The CW’s Arrowverse and, more recently, co-creator of Netflix’s You and producer of the feature My Policeman, is moving to CAA from WME, where he’d been for 15 years.
Berlanti had been repped for the past 15 years by WME’s Ari Greenburg and will now be with a team at CAA led by Bryan Lourd.
The news comes as Berlanti has been in the midst of negotiations with Warner Bros. Discovery to extend his 400 million overall deal, which he signed in 2018. It’s unclear if he will do so, given that his current deal was made years before the WarnerMedia-Discovery merger. That deal included bonuses for the number of series Berlanti was able to get picked up.
- 12/22/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg and Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Zack Estrin, the well-known writer and producer who shepherded Netflix's Lost in Space reboot, has died.
He was 51.
According to reports, Estrin suffered a cardiac event while jogging on the beach.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” Estrin’s family said in a statement to Variety.
“The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh."
"He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed."
"But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Estrin was born in California but raised in New York.
His writing and producing career kicked off with work on shows like Charmed, Dawson's Creek, and Tru Calling.
Other credits include No Ordinary Family, The River, and The Whispers.
He also worked on Prison Break and was...
He was 51.
According to reports, Estrin suffered a cardiac event while jogging on the beach.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” Estrin’s family said in a statement to Variety.
“The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh."
"He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed."
"But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Estrin was born in California but raised in New York.
His writing and producing career kicked off with work on shows like Charmed, Dawson's Creek, and Tru Calling.
Other credits include No Ordinary Family, The River, and The Whispers.
He also worked on Prison Break and was...
- 9/26/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Click here to read the full article.
TV writer-producer Zack Estrin, whose credits include Prison Break and Lost in Space, died Friday in Hermosa Beach, Calif., of an unknown cause. He was 51.
Estrin had a successful career in TV, starting with credits on Charmed, Dawson’s Creek and Tru Calling, before rising through the ranks to serve as co-executive producer of Fox’s Prison Break.
Estrin was showrunner and executive producer of two ABC paranormal thrillers, The River and The Whispers, as well as co-creator and executive producer of ABC’s Once Upon a Time in Wonderland.
He also was showrunner and executive producer of Netflix’s reimagining of Lost in Space.
Born in Woodland, California, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Estrin attended USC before starting his entertainment career in film. He was a producer on Stranger Than Fiction and O, a contemporary adaptation of Shakespearian ‘s Othello.
In a statement,...
TV writer-producer Zack Estrin, whose credits include Prison Break and Lost in Space, died Friday in Hermosa Beach, Calif., of an unknown cause. He was 51.
Estrin had a successful career in TV, starting with credits on Charmed, Dawson’s Creek and Tru Calling, before rising through the ranks to serve as co-executive producer of Fox’s Prison Break.
Estrin was showrunner and executive producer of two ABC paranormal thrillers, The River and The Whispers, as well as co-creator and executive producer of ABC’s Once Upon a Time in Wonderland.
He also was showrunner and executive producer of Netflix’s reimagining of Lost in Space.
Born in Woodland, California, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Estrin attended USC before starting his entertainment career in film. He was a producer on Stranger Than Fiction and O, a contemporary adaptation of Shakespearian ‘s Othello.
In a statement,...
- 9/25/2022
- by Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Zack Estrin, the respected writer-producer and showrunner known for his work on Fox’s “Prison Break” and Netflix’s recent revival of “Lost in Space,” died Sept. 23 in Hermosa Beach, Calif. He was 51.
Estrin’s death was confirmed Sunday by his longtime talent agency, WME. Estrin was remembered by friends and family as a versatile writer and producer who was a generous mentor to others.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” Estrin’s family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
WME president Ari Greenburg added, “Zack was our client for nearly 25 years. He had a tremendously...
Estrin’s death was confirmed Sunday by his longtime talent agency, WME. Estrin was remembered by friends and family as a versatile writer and producer who was a generous mentor to others.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” Estrin’s family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
WME president Ari Greenburg added, “Zack was our client for nearly 25 years. He had a tremendously...
- 9/25/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Top television writer-producer Zack Estrin, known for his work as executive producer/showrunner of Lost In Space and co-executive producer on Prison Break, passed away suddenly Sept. 23 in Hermosa Beach. He was 51. Estrin, who was in good health, died of suspected cardiac arrest after collapsing while jogging on the beach. The exact cause of death is unknown pending autopsy.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” his family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Born in Woodland, California, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Estrin graduated from USC and began his entertainment career in features as a...
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” his family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Born in Woodland, California, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Estrin graduated from USC and began his entertainment career in features as a...
- 9/25/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Zack Estrin, a screenwriter and producer best known for serving as showrunner and executive producer for Netflix’s “Lost in Space” reboot, died Friday, a representative for the family said Sunday. He was 51.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” the screenwriter’s family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
The California native rose through the ranks of Hollywood as a producer and writer, eventually becoming an executive producer and showrunner on shows like “The River” and “The Whispers.”
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Estrin was born in Woodland,...
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” the screenwriter’s family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
The California native rose through the ranks of Hollywood as a producer and writer, eventually becoming an executive producer and showrunner on shows like “The River” and “The Whispers.”
Also Read:
Louise Fletcher, Oscar-Winning Nurse Ratched in ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,’ Dies at 88
Estrin was born in Woodland,...
- 9/25/2022
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
WME veterans Christian Muirhead and Richard Weitz have been promoted to co-chairmen of the powerful talent agency that is a cornerstone of Endeavor.
The pair will succeed Lloyd Braun, who will step down from the WME chairman role at year’s end. Muirhead is the agency’s longtime communications chief. Weitz is one of the industry’s most respected literary agents who joined Endeavor when that agency when in its infancy in 1997.
“The appointment of Richard and Christian marks a truly transformative day for WME, which continues to be the inspirational core of Endeavor,” said Endeavor president Mark Shapiro. “I’ve seen first-hand their innate ability to lead, to build meaningful relationships, and to leverage the broader Endeavor network in service to our clients’ aspirations. Coupled with their deep understanding of the entertainment landscape, I can say with certainty that there are no better or more complementary individuals to now lead the agency.
The pair will succeed Lloyd Braun, who will step down from the WME chairman role at year’s end. Muirhead is the agency’s longtime communications chief. Weitz is one of the industry’s most respected literary agents who joined Endeavor when that agency when in its infancy in 1997.
“The appointment of Richard and Christian marks a truly transformative day for WME, which continues to be the inspirational core of Endeavor,” said Endeavor president Mark Shapiro. “I’ve seen first-hand their innate ability to lead, to build meaningful relationships, and to leverage the broader Endeavor network in service to our clients’ aspirations. Coupled with their deep understanding of the entertainment landscape, I can say with certainty that there are no better or more complementary individuals to now lead the agency.
- 9/8/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
WME announced Thursday that executives Richard Weitz and Christian Muirhead will replace Lloyd Braun as co-chairmen.
Braun will exit the role he served for three years at the end of 2022.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Mark Shapiro, president of WME’s parent company Endeavor. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Weitz, who first joined the talent agency in 1997, became a WME partner and head of its television packaging department in 2002. He previously worked at InterTalent Agency and ICM.
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“WME is home to me, and I’m thrilled to carry on its century-long history and help set the course for its next 100 years.
Braun will exit the role he served for three years at the end of 2022.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Mark Shapiro, president of WME’s parent company Endeavor. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Weitz, who first joined the talent agency in 1997, became a WME partner and head of its television packaging department in 2002. He previously worked at InterTalent Agency and ICM.
Also Read:
‘Ted Lasso’ Star Brett Goldstein Signs With WME
“WME is home to me, and I’m thrilled to carry on its century-long history and help set the course for its next 100 years.
- 9/8/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Richard Weitz and Christian Muirhead have been upped to co-chairmen of Endeavor’s WME talent agency, succeeding Lloyd Braun who will step down as chairman at the end of 2022 when his contract is up. Both are agency veterans, having come from the two companies that formed WME, Endeavor (Weitz) and Wma (Muirhead), and also come from different backgrounds, agenting and corporate communications, respectively. Ari Greenburg remains WME president and will now report to Weitz and Muirhead.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Mark Shapiro, President, Endeavor. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Former ABC Entertainment Television Group chairman Braun was a rare outsider brought into WME’s top ranks in late 2019 as chairman.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Mark Shapiro, President, Endeavor. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Former ABC Entertainment Television Group chairman Braun was a rare outsider brought into WME’s top ranks in late 2019 as chairman.
- 9/8/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
WME is shaking up its top leadership ranks, promoting two long-tenured executives to jointly oversee the talent agency and its representation business.
The Beverly Hills-based firm named Richard Weitz and Christian Muirhead as co-chairmen, succeeding Lloyd Braun in the role, the agency said Thursday. Braun, a veteran entertainment exec who joined WME’s Ari Emanuel-run parent company Endeavor in 2019 to oversee its representation business, will exit at the end of the year.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Endeavor president Mark Shapiro. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Ari Greenburg, who was named president of WME in Dec. 2018 and was an early partner at the agency,...
WME is shaking up its top leadership ranks, promoting two long-tenured executives to jointly oversee the talent agency and its representation business.
The Beverly Hills-based firm named Richard Weitz and Christian Muirhead as co-chairmen, succeeding Lloyd Braun in the role, the agency said Thursday. Braun, a veteran entertainment exec who joined WME’s Ari Emanuel-run parent company Endeavor in 2019 to oversee its representation business, will exit at the end of the year.
“I would like to thank Lloyd for his leadership over these past three years, navigating WME through the pandemic and setting the agency on course for its best financial year on record,” said Endeavor president Mark Shapiro. “Lloyd has left an indelible mark on WME and laid a strong foundation for the future.”
Ari Greenburg, who was named president of WME in Dec. 2018 and was an early partner at the agency,...
- 9/8/2022
- by Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Meek Mill and WME are forming a strategic partnership that will focus on the next wave of cultural leaders. The collaboration between the artist and the talent agency is part of Mill’s Cultural Currency initiative that looks to expand his business while identifying and supporting his network of artists, athletes, and entertainers to better take advantage of their influence on culture and open up more opportunities for them.
“Meek Mill is one of the most influential voices shaping our culture today, whether it be in art, business, or social justice, and his network is equally impactful. This partnership will provide an important pipeline for WME to support future cultural influencers and to provide Meek with another platform to continue building his business,” WME President Ari Greenburg in a statement.
WME will also represent Meek in all areas while working together to identify talent to potentially represent or partner with,...
“Meek Mill is one of the most influential voices shaping our culture today, whether it be in art, business, or social justice, and his network is equally impactful. This partnership will provide an important pipeline for WME to support future cultural influencers and to provide Meek with another platform to continue building his business,” WME President Ari Greenburg in a statement.
WME will also represent Meek in all areas while working together to identify talent to potentially represent or partner with,...
- 8/11/2022
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Rapper Meek Mill has struck a partnership with talent agency WME.
The deal will see WME represent Mill in all areas, while the agency also helps support his network of artists, athletes, and entertainers in the brand and business space as part of his Culture Currency initiative.
After Mill parted ways with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Management, the chart-topping rapper is partnering with WME and looking to leverage its global reach in film, TV, music, books, digital and endorsements.
“Meek Mill is one of the most influential voices shaping our culture today, whether it be in art, business, or social justice, and his network is equally impactful. This partnership will provide an important pipeline for WME to support future cultural influencers and to provide Meek with another platform to continue building his business,” WME president Ari Greenburg said in a statement.
Mill in...
Rapper Meek Mill has struck a partnership with talent agency WME.
The deal will see WME represent Mill in all areas, while the agency also helps support his network of artists, athletes, and entertainers in the brand and business space as part of his Culture Currency initiative.
After Mill parted ways with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Management, the chart-topping rapper is partnering with WME and looking to leverage its global reach in film, TV, music, books, digital and endorsements.
“Meek Mill is one of the most influential voices shaping our culture today, whether it be in art, business, or social justice, and his network is equally impactful. This partnership will provide an important pipeline for WME to support future cultural influencers and to provide Meek with another platform to continue building his business,” WME president Ari Greenburg said in a statement.
Mill in...
- 8/11/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Ashley Holland, a TV lit agent and partner at WME, is leaving the agency to join Onyx Collective, Disney’s curated content brand for creators of color and underrepresented voices. I hear her deal is still being finalized, and she will stay at WME for a few more weeks, but Holland is expected to be a senior scripted executive at Onyx.
WME President Ari Greenburg sent the a note to the agency this afternoon, announcing Holland’s career move.
“Ashley will be a superstar at Onyx, because everywhere she goes, she has tremendous impact,” he wrote. “We are sad to lose her, but we are so excited to watch her ascend at the Walt Disney Company as part of the leadership at Onyx.” (You can read his memo in full below the post.)
At Onyx, Holland will join her longtime client Prentice Penny, who has an overall deal there,...
WME President Ari Greenburg sent the a note to the agency this afternoon, announcing Holland’s career move.
“Ashley will be a superstar at Onyx, because everywhere she goes, she has tremendous impact,” he wrote. “We are sad to lose her, but we are so excited to watch her ascend at the Walt Disney Company as part of the leadership at Onyx.” (You can read his memo in full below the post.)
At Onyx, Holland will join her longtime client Prentice Penny, who has an overall deal there,...
- 4/21/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated Below: A judge has thrown out the lawsuit.
A media consultant claims in a new lawsuit that Endeavor stole his unsolicited ideas on how to pitch itself to Wall Street, and that his concepts are single-handedly responsible for saving the company from ruin.
David Carde, who describes himself as a consultant in the media and technology sectors, alleges that in September 2019 his attorney emailed an 11-page analysis to Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel and to Ari Greenburg, the president of WME. He apparently never received a response.
At the time, Endeavor was making its first effort to launch an IPO. A week later, though, the IPO was withdrawn amid concerns about market conditions.
Endeavor tried again in April 2021 and was successful. The company currently has a market cap of about $12 billion.
In the suit, Carde alleges that in the marketing materials for the second go-round, the company borrowed from his 11-page analysis.
A media consultant claims in a new lawsuit that Endeavor stole his unsolicited ideas on how to pitch itself to Wall Street, and that his concepts are single-handedly responsible for saving the company from ruin.
David Carde, who describes himself as a consultant in the media and technology sectors, alleges that in September 2019 his attorney emailed an 11-page analysis to Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel and to Ari Greenburg, the president of WME. He apparently never received a response.
At the time, Endeavor was making its first effort to launch an IPO. A week later, though, the IPO was withdrawn amid concerns about market conditions.
Endeavor tried again in April 2021 and was successful. The company currently has a market cap of about $12 billion.
In the suit, Carde alleges that in the marketing materials for the second go-round, the company borrowed from his 11-page analysis.
- 3/4/2022
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
ABC has ordered the pilot for “Not Dead Yet,” a single-camera comedy from writing duo Casey Johnson and David Windsor, executive produced by McG.
“Not Dead Yet” follows 40-something Nell Stevens, who is down on her luck, low on cash and newly single. When she lands the only job she can find, writing obituaries, she starts receiving life advice from an unlikely source. The pilot is based on Alexandra Potter’s romantic comedy novel “Confessions of a Forty-Something F—k Up.”
Mary Viola and Corey Marsh also executive produce under McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision banner. 20th Television is the studio.
Johnson and Windsor are best known for writing “Greek,” “Don’t Trust the B—– in Apartment 23” and “Galavant.” In 2016, they created and executive produced “The Real O’Neals,” starring Martha Plimpton and Noah Galvin, which ran on ABC for two seasons. Johnson and Windsor also served as co-executive producers...
“Not Dead Yet” follows 40-something Nell Stevens, who is down on her luck, low on cash and newly single. When she lands the only job she can find, writing obituaries, she starts receiving life advice from an unlikely source. The pilot is based on Alexandra Potter’s romantic comedy novel “Confessions of a Forty-Something F—k Up.”
Mary Viola and Corey Marsh also executive produce under McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision banner. 20th Television is the studio.
Johnson and Windsor are best known for writing “Greek,” “Don’t Trust the B—– in Apartment 23” and “Galavant.” In 2016, they created and executive produced “The Real O’Neals,” starring Martha Plimpton and Noah Galvin, which ran on ABC for two seasons. Johnson and Windsor also served as co-executive producers...
- 2/14/2022
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
It’s a busy morning of pilot pickups at ABC.
The network has ordered a pilot for single-camera comedy Not Dead Yet, which comes from The Real O’Neals creators Casey Johnson and David Windsor with McG exec producing.
The project is based on Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k Up by Alexandra Potter, which was published in 2020.
It is the latest pilot ordered at the network from This Is Us alums – Johnson and Windsor currently serve as co-exec producers on the NBC series – after it picked up a drama from Kay Oyegun earlier this morning.
2022 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
Not Dead Yet follows Nell Stevens, broke, newly single and feeling old, a a self-described 40-something disaster, who works to restart the life and career she left behind 10 years ago. When she lands the only job she can find – writing obituaries – Nell starts getting life advice from an unlikely source.
The network has ordered a pilot for single-camera comedy Not Dead Yet, which comes from The Real O’Neals creators Casey Johnson and David Windsor with McG exec producing.
The project is based on Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k Up by Alexandra Potter, which was published in 2020.
It is the latest pilot ordered at the network from This Is Us alums – Johnson and Windsor currently serve as co-exec producers on the NBC series – after it picked up a drama from Kay Oyegun earlier this morning.
2022 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
Not Dead Yet follows Nell Stevens, broke, newly single and feeling old, a a self-described 40-something disaster, who works to restart the life and career she left behind 10 years ago. When she lands the only job she can find – writing obituaries – Nell starts getting life advice from an unlikely source.
- 2/14/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lindsay Aubin, Andrew Mathes, Dani Potter, and Andrew Wang have been promoted to partner in WME’s TV Scripted department, Variety has learned exclusively.
Mathes started at WME in 2009, rising to the rank of coordinator in 2012 and then agent in 2013. His clients include Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, Carlton Cuse, John Legend, John Krasinski, Idris Elba, David Ayer, and Adam McKay’s HyperObject. He also led efforts to adapt podcasts into TV series, selling projects like “Limetown” to Facebook Watch, “Dirty John” at Bravo, and the upcoming “Gaslit” at Starz.
Aubin started at WME in 2010, at first working as an assistant for people like Ari Emanuel, Ari Greenburg and Marc Korman. Her client list is made up of showrunners like Kelly Marcel and Jane Goldman, filmmakers like Damien Chazelle and John Carney, and first-time series creators Nida Manzoor, Justin Noble, and Francesca Sloane.
Wang began his Hollywood career at Paradigm,...
Mathes started at WME in 2009, rising to the rank of coordinator in 2012 and then agent in 2013. His clients include Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, Carlton Cuse, John Legend, John Krasinski, Idris Elba, David Ayer, and Adam McKay’s HyperObject. He also led efforts to adapt podcasts into TV series, selling projects like “Limetown” to Facebook Watch, “Dirty John” at Bravo, and the upcoming “Gaslit” at Starz.
Aubin started at WME in 2010, at first working as an assistant for people like Ari Emanuel, Ari Greenburg and Marc Korman. Her client list is made up of showrunners like Kelly Marcel and Jane Goldman, filmmakers like Damien Chazelle and John Carney, and first-time series creators Nida Manzoor, Justin Noble, and Francesca Sloane.
Wang began his Hollywood career at Paradigm,...
- 1/24/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Erin Junkin never anticipated working in entertainment. But 19 years after starting at Endeavor, she’s now the co-head of WME’s television department and the only woman in the industry to hold such a post.
Originally starting in the mailroom before working her way up through the ranks alongside WME’s Rick Rosen, Ari Greenburg, Ari Emanuel and Paul Haas, Junkin now has her finger on the pulse of the TV industry as she and Tom Wellington co-run the agency’s sprawling TV department.
Now, as the industry begins to emerge following a year of pandemic-related changes and a racial reckoning, Junkin sat ...
Originally starting in the mailroom before working her way up through the ranks alongside WME’s Rick Rosen, Ari Greenburg, Ari Emanuel and Paul Haas, Junkin now has her finger on the pulse of the TV industry as she and Tom Wellington co-run the agency’s sprawling TV department.
Now, as the industry begins to emerge following a year of pandemic-related changes and a racial reckoning, Junkin sat ...
- 11/5/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Erin Junkin never anticipated working in entertainment. But 19 years after starting at Endeavor, she’s now the co-head of WME’s television department and the only woman in the industry to hold such a post.
Originally starting in the mailroom before working her way up through the ranks alongside WME’s Rick Rosen, Ari Greenburg, Ari Emanuel and Paul Haas, Junkin now has her finger on the pulse of the TV industry as she and Tom Wellington co-run the agency’s sprawling TV department.
Now, as the industry begins to emerge following a year of pandemic-related changes and a racial reckoning, Junkin sat ...
Originally starting in the mailroom before working her way up through the ranks alongside WME’s Rick Rosen, Ari Greenburg, Ari Emanuel and Paul Haas, Junkin now has her finger on the pulse of the TV industry as she and Tom Wellington co-run the agency’s sprawling TV department.
Now, as the industry begins to emerge following a year of pandemic-related changes and a racial reckoning, Junkin sat ...
- 11/5/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: The Paley Center for Media has added more heavy-hitter media and entertainment names to its ranks, appointing execs including Univision CEO Wade Davis and Spotify’s Dawn Ostroff to its Board of Trustees, and the likes of Warner Bros Television Group chairman Channing Dungey, WME president Ari Greenburg and Power creator Courtney Kemp to the nonprofit’s Los Angeles Board of Governors.
The Paley Center’s Board of Trustees is chaired by Frank A. Bennack Jr. and offers guidance in support of the organization’s mission to lead the conversation around the evolving media landscape via its public programs and exhibits, educational classes, workshops, and industry events hosted by the Paley Media Council.
The L.A. Board of Governors advises the Paley Center on its strategic goals and Los Angeles programming calendar.
Other Board of Trustees additions revealed Wednesday include Pearson CEO Andy Bird, John S. and James L.
The Paley Center’s Board of Trustees is chaired by Frank A. Bennack Jr. and offers guidance in support of the organization’s mission to lead the conversation around the evolving media landscape via its public programs and exhibits, educational classes, workshops, and industry events hosted by the Paley Media Council.
The L.A. Board of Governors advises the Paley Center on its strategic goals and Los Angeles programming calendar.
Other Board of Trustees additions revealed Wednesday include Pearson CEO Andy Bird, John S. and James L.
- 4/28/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
More than 22 months after thousands of scribes parted ways with their reps amid one of the biggest showdowns in recent Hollywood history, all of the town’s major agencies have now made peace with the Writers Guild of America. The lone holdout, WME, has agreed to terms with the guild.
The deal will allow the Beverly Hills-based talent firm, led by president Ari Greenburg, to represent writers for the first time since April 2019, when the franchise agreement with the guild expired. Endeavor, the parent company of WME, will reduce its ownership stake in film and TV company Endeavor ...
The deal will allow the Beverly Hills-based talent firm, led by president Ari Greenburg, to represent writers for the first time since April 2019, when the franchise agreement with the guild expired. Endeavor, the parent company of WME, will reduce its ownership stake in film and TV company Endeavor ...
More than 22 months after thousands of scribes parted ways with their reps amid one of the biggest showdowns in recent Hollywood history, all of the town’s major agencies have now made peace with the Writers Guild of America. The lone holdout, WME, has agreed to terms with the guild.
The deal will allow the Beverly Hills-based talent firm, led by president Ari Greenburg, to represent writers for the first time since April 2019, when the franchise agreement with the guild expired. Endeavor, the parent company of WME, will reduce its ownership stake in film and TV company Endeavor ...
The deal will allow the Beverly Hills-based talent firm, led by president Ari Greenburg, to represent writers for the first time since April 2019, when the franchise agreement with the guild expired. Endeavor, the parent company of WME, will reduce its ownership stake in film and TV company Endeavor ...
WME says it’s in “substantive discussions” with the WGA to end their 21-month battle over packaging fees and the agency’s affiliation with a related production entity, Endeavor Content.
“We are currently in substantive discussions with the WGA to resolve the ongoing dispute,” Endeavor president Mark Shapiro said in a statement. “The tenor of the conversation is positive, and we are working diligently with the WGA to move this forward as quickly as possible.
The WGA did not respond to a request for comment.
WME is the last major talent agency that’s still not signed to the WGA’s franchise agreement. A deal would allow WME’s writer-clients to return to the agency. The WGA’s campaign to reshape the agenting business began in April 2019 when it ordered its members to fire their agents en masse who refused to sign its Code of Conduct, modified versions of which...
“We are currently in substantive discussions with the WGA to resolve the ongoing dispute,” Endeavor president Mark Shapiro said in a statement. “The tenor of the conversation is positive, and we are working diligently with the WGA to move this forward as quickly as possible.
The WGA did not respond to a request for comment.
WME is the last major talent agency that’s still not signed to the WGA’s franchise agreement. A deal would allow WME’s writer-clients to return to the agency. The WGA’s campaign to reshape the agenting business began in April 2019 when it ordered its members to fire their agents en masse who refused to sign its Code of Conduct, modified versions of which...
- 1/26/2021
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Directors Guild has sided with the Writers Guild in the WGA’s ongoing legal battle with WME over the agency’s ownership interest in its affiliated production entity – Endeavor Content. In a letter obtained by Deadline (read it below), DGA national executive director Russell Hollander told WME president Ari Greenburg that the DGA has “been closely following the negotiations and litigation and believe now is the right time to communicate our strong support for the WGA’s efforts to remedy the affiliated production company issue.”
In his letter dated December 31, Hollander also told Greenburg: “This continued conflict of interest is not acceptable to the DGA. Absent prompt resolution, we intend to take all necessary and appropriate steps to protect our members.”
The DGA declined comment.
Here’s the full text of Hollander’s letter:
Dear Ari,
The issue of talent agencies owning production entities is, and always has been,...
In his letter dated December 31, Hollander also told Greenburg: “This continued conflict of interest is not acceptable to the DGA. Absent prompt resolution, we intend to take all necessary and appropriate steps to protect our members.”
The DGA declined comment.
Here’s the full text of Hollander’s letter:
Dear Ari,
The issue of talent agencies owning production entities is, and always has been,...
- 1/13/2021
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: WGA West executive director David Young has acknowledged that he told WME partner Rick Rosen that he “should kick his ass” during a heated phone call in August, but denied that he ever threatened to “kill” him, as Rosen alleged in a declaration filed in federal court last month.
Young’s version of the phone call comes fresh off of Wednesday’s signing of CAA to the WGA’s franchise agreement, and ahead of Friday’s scheduled showdown with WME in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles.
Rosen has claimed, under penalty of perjury, that Young “repeatedly threatened to ‘kill’ me” during the August phone call as the WGA and WME were trying to hammer out a deal to end their ongoing legal battle. Rosen said in a declaration filed in federal court last month that he was so alarmed by the alleged threat that he called WGA...
Young’s version of the phone call comes fresh off of Wednesday’s signing of CAA to the WGA’s franchise agreement, and ahead of Friday’s scheduled showdown with WME in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles.
Rosen has claimed, under penalty of perjury, that Young “repeatedly threatened to ‘kill’ me” during the August phone call as the WGA and WME were trying to hammer out a deal to end their ongoing legal battle. Rosen said in a declaration filed in federal court last month that he was so alarmed by the alleged threat that he called WGA...
- 12/17/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
WME president Ari Greenburg told a federal judge today that many of the WGA’s members are afraid of their own guild. Greenburg said so in a supplemental declaration in support of the agency’s request for a preliminary injunction to stop the guild’s ongoing boycott of WME and CAA until the case goes to trial.
“Many Guild members communicated to me and/or to other WME agents their belief that the WGA’s rules are purposefully vague, have changed over time, and could be used against them by the Guilds if they worked with WME in any capacity,” he told U.S. District Court Judge André Birotte Jr. under penalty of perjury. “In addition, WGA has been telling different things to different WGA members – differences that the Guilds are using to their own advantage – regarding the application of their own rules. Members were also worried about Guild tribunals,...
“Many Guild members communicated to me and/or to other WME agents their belief that the WGA’s rules are purposefully vague, have changed over time, and could be used against them by the Guilds if they worked with WME in any capacity,” he told U.S. District Court Judge André Birotte Jr. under penalty of perjury. “In addition, WGA has been telling different things to different WGA members – differences that the Guilds are using to their own advantage – regarding the application of their own rules. Members were also worried about Guild tribunals,...
- 12/12/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
WME and CAA have filed objections to the WGA’s request to cross-examine several of their top officials at a December 18 court hearing on the agencies’ motions for a preliminary injunction that would force the guild to drop its group boycott against them.
The ongoing legal dispute arose in April 2019 when the WGA East and West ordered their members to fire their agents who refused to sign the guilds’ Code of Conduct, which banned packaging fees and agency affiliations with related production companies. Since then, every major agency except CAA and WME has signed a modified code that phases out packaging fees and reduces ownership interests of production companies to just 20%.
According to WME’s objection, the WGA wants to cross-examine WME president Ari Greenburg, partner Rick Rosen and Endeavor chief counsel Courtney Braun, all of whom filed declarations in the case. In his declaration, Greenburg railed against the WGA...
The ongoing legal dispute arose in April 2019 when the WGA East and West ordered their members to fire their agents who refused to sign the guilds’ Code of Conduct, which banned packaging fees and agency affiliations with related production companies. Since then, every major agency except CAA and WME has signed a modified code that phases out packaging fees and reduces ownership interests of production companies to just 20%.
According to WME’s objection, the WGA wants to cross-examine WME president Ari Greenburg, partner Rick Rosen and Endeavor chief counsel Courtney Braun, all of whom filed declarations in the case. In his declaration, Greenburg railed against the WGA...
- 12/8/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with more details: CAA and WME have asked a federal judge to deny the WGA East and West’s request for an eight-week continuance of the hearing date on the agencies’ motion for a preliminary injunction that would force the guilds to drop their group boycott against the agencies. A hearing is currently scheduled for December 18, but the guilds wants it put off until February 12. CAA, however, told the judge that “Any further delay puts at serious risk CAA’s relationship with WGA members and guarantees the loss of opportunities that will never be regained.”
Bryan Lourd, CAA’s managing partner, said in a declaration filed today that “It is my understanding that the WGA and its counsel now seek to delay resolution of CAA’s motion by two months until February 2021 so that the WGA’s counsel can take discovery. That delay is unacceptable, and further evidence that...
Bryan Lourd, CAA’s managing partner, said in a declaration filed today that “It is my understanding that the WGA and its counsel now seek to delay resolution of CAA’s motion by two months until February 2021 so that the WGA’s counsel can take discovery. That delay is unacceptable, and further evidence that...
- 11/20/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with Ari Greenburg declaration details: WME followed CAA’s lead Wednesday, asking a federal judge to issue a preliminary injunction that would force the Writers Guild to drop its group boycott against the agency. The move comes the day after CAA filed a similar request in their long-running legal battle with the guild over packaging fees and production affiliates.
The dispute arose in April 2019 when the WGA ordered its members to fire their agents who refused to sign the guild’s Code of Conduct, which banned packaging fees and agency affiliations with related production companies. Since then, every major agency except CAA and WME have signed a modified code that phases out packaging fees and reduces ownership interests of production companies to just 20%.
In a declaration accompanying today’s filing, WME president Ari Greenburg railed against the WGA for holding talent agents to a different standard than talent managers,...
The dispute arose in April 2019 when the WGA ordered its members to fire their agents who refused to sign the guild’s Code of Conduct, which banned packaging fees and agency affiliations with related production companies. Since then, every major agency except CAA and WME have signed a modified code that phases out packaging fees and reduces ownership interests of production companies to just 20%.
In a declaration accompanying today’s filing, WME president Ari Greenburg railed against the WGA for holding talent agents to a different standard than talent managers,...
- 11/18/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Dan Limerick has been promoted to chief operating officer of WME.
The executive’s new title was announced Monday by the talent agency’s chairman, Lloyd Braun. In his new role, Limerick will work closely with Braun — who is also the president of WME owner Endeavor’s client group — and WME president Ari Greenburg, overseeing all areas of the agency, business priorities and strategic initiatives.
“Dan has been a critical thought partner to our agency and clients throughout his time at WME, serving as a steady hand amidst transformational changes in our industry,” Braun said in a statement. “Dan’s character and judgment are emblematic of who we strive to be, and we look forward to him playing a larger role in the growth of WME.”
Limerick previously served as head of business affairs for Endeavor Client Group, overseeing business strategy for client deals, and helping manage guild relationships for the agency.
The executive’s new title was announced Monday by the talent agency’s chairman, Lloyd Braun. In his new role, Limerick will work closely with Braun — who is also the president of WME owner Endeavor’s client group — and WME president Ari Greenburg, overseeing all areas of the agency, business priorities and strategic initiatives.
“Dan has been a critical thought partner to our agency and clients throughout his time at WME, serving as a steady hand amidst transformational changes in our industry,” Braun said in a statement. “Dan’s character and judgment are emblematic of who we strive to be, and we look forward to him playing a larger role in the growth of WME.”
Limerick previously served as head of business affairs for Endeavor Client Group, overseeing business strategy for client deals, and helping manage guild relationships for the agency.
- 11/2/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Dan Limerick has been promoted to chief operating officer of WME, the agency said Monday, moving up from his previous role as Head of Business Affairs at Endeavor Client Group.
In the newly created position, he will now work with Endeavor Client Group president and WME chairman Lloyd Braun and WME president Ari Greenburg to oversee all areas of the agency, business priorities and strategic initiatives. In addition, he will continue to oversee the business affairs function at Endeavor Client Group.
“Dan has been a critical thought partner to our agency and clients throughout his time at WME, serving as a steady hand amidst transformational changes in our industry,” said Braun today. “Dan’s character and judgment are emblematic of who we strive to be, and we look forward to him playing a larger role in the growth of WME.”
Limerick joined WME as Head of Television Business Affairs in...
In the newly created position, he will now work with Endeavor Client Group president and WME chairman Lloyd Braun and WME president Ari Greenburg to oversee all areas of the agency, business priorities and strategic initiatives. In addition, he will continue to oversee the business affairs function at Endeavor Client Group.
“Dan has been a critical thought partner to our agency and clients throughout his time at WME, serving as a steady hand amidst transformational changes in our industry,” said Braun today. “Dan’s character and judgment are emblematic of who we strive to be, and we look forward to him playing a larger role in the growth of WME.”
Limerick joined WME as Head of Television Business Affairs in...
- 11/2/2020
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
WME partner Phillip Sun and Macro founder and CEO Charles D. King are launching M88, a full-service representation firm that aims to amplify “the voices of artists and creators from the global new majority.”
Sun will depart the agency to lead the new joint venture as president and managing partner, and King’s recently launched Macro Management will merge its operations with the company. M88, which gets its first initial from King’s Macro and the numbers in its name as a nod to Sun’s Chinese heritage, will be majority-owned by Macro.
Macro Management partners Gaby Mena and Jelani Johnson are also boarding M88 as partners.
Michael B. Jordan will be Sun’s first client at M88, with more expected to be represented by the firm soon. Sun and Jordan built Jordan’s production company, Outlier Society, which has first-look deals at Warner Bros. for film and Amazon Studios for television,...
Sun will depart the agency to lead the new joint venture as president and managing partner, and King’s recently launched Macro Management will merge its operations with the company. M88, which gets its first initial from King’s Macro and the numbers in its name as a nod to Sun’s Chinese heritage, will be majority-owned by Macro.
Macro Management partners Gaby Mena and Jelani Johnson are also boarding M88 as partners.
Michael B. Jordan will be Sun’s first client at M88, with more expected to be represented by the firm soon. Sun and Jordan built Jordan’s production company, Outlier Society, which has first-look deals at Warner Bros. for film and Amazon Studios for television,...
- 8/24/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Wme parent company Endeavor announced on Friday that it has acquired speakers agency The Harry Walker Agency.
Hwa president Don Walker and managing director Ellen Kazis-Walker will continue to lead Hwa under Endeavor and the agency will continue to operate as an affiliate of Wme under the Hwa banner.
Wme’s existing speakers division will be fully integrated into Hwa. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“The Harry Walker Agency has been the gold standard for almost 75 years,” Endeavor CEO Ariel Emanuel said in a statement. “Their standard of excellence has long been imitated, but never replicated, and we’re proud to welcome them to the Endeavor family.”
Also Read: Endeavor Names Whalerock CEO Lloyd Braun President of Representation and Management Business
Hwa speakers include world leaders, authors, Nobel laureates, prominent corporate executives, journalists, activists, celebrities and other thought leaders. Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are Hwa clients,...
Hwa president Don Walker and managing director Ellen Kazis-Walker will continue to lead Hwa under Endeavor and the agency will continue to operate as an affiliate of Wme under the Hwa banner.
Wme’s existing speakers division will be fully integrated into Hwa. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“The Harry Walker Agency has been the gold standard for almost 75 years,” Endeavor CEO Ariel Emanuel said in a statement. “Their standard of excellence has long been imitated, but never replicated, and we’re proud to welcome them to the Endeavor family.”
Also Read: Endeavor Names Whalerock CEO Lloyd Braun President of Representation and Management Business
Hwa speakers include world leaders, authors, Nobel laureates, prominent corporate executives, journalists, activists, celebrities and other thought leaders. Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are Hwa clients,...
- 11/8/2019
- by Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Endeavor on Friday said that it has acquired The Harry Walker Agency, one of the preeminent speakers rep agencies in the industry. Its client roster includes former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as Nobel laureates, prominent corporate executives, journalists, activists and celebrities.
“The Harry Walker Agency has been the gold standard for almost 75 years,” Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel said today. “Their standard of excellence has long been imitated, but never replicated, and we’re proud to welcome them to the Endeavor family.”
No financial details were available, but New York-based Hwa will continue to be led by managing director Ellen Kazis-Walker and operate as an affiliate of Endeavor’s Wme, with Hwa president Don Walker will continuing to oversee their agency. Wme’s existing speakers division will now be fully integrated into Hwa.
“Hwa and their speakers will now benefit from the global reach and resources of...
“The Harry Walker Agency has been the gold standard for almost 75 years,” Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel said today. “Their standard of excellence has long been imitated, but never replicated, and we’re proud to welcome them to the Endeavor family.”
No financial details were available, but New York-based Hwa will continue to be led by managing director Ellen Kazis-Walker and operate as an affiliate of Endeavor’s Wme, with Hwa president Don Walker will continuing to oversee their agency. Wme’s existing speakers division will now be fully integrated into Hwa.
“Hwa and their speakers will now benefit from the global reach and resources of...
- 11/8/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Endeavor is consolidating its representation and management businesses in a new unit run by Lloyd Braun. The former ABC Entertainment Television Group chairman has been named President of Endeavor’s Client Group, which includes entertainment agency Wme; fashion management companies Img Models, The Wall Group, Art + Commerce and Lens; and Img’s global licensing business. All leaders of those divisions will now report to Lloyd, including Wme President Ari Greenburg.
The move is likely to further fuel speculation about Endeavor possibly spinning off its representation businesses, though sources close to the company indicate that the goal of the reorganization is to have better communication and coordination between the various representation units. It comes a month and a half after Endeavor shelved its planned Ipo.
As part of Braun’s appointment, Endeavor has bought a major stake in his digital media company Whalerock Industries, which specializes in strategic consulting and organization design.
The move is likely to further fuel speculation about Endeavor possibly spinning off its representation businesses, though sources close to the company indicate that the goal of the reorganization is to have better communication and coordination between the various representation units. It comes a month and a half after Endeavor shelved its planned Ipo.
As part of Braun’s appointment, Endeavor has bought a major stake in his digital media company Whalerock Industries, which specializes in strategic consulting and organization design.
- 11/7/2019
- by Patrick Hipes and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
A flurry of phone calls and emails and one crucial text message led to Saturday’s stealth meeting between WGA representatives and talent agency leaders.
The four-hour session at WGA West headquarters ended with the guild agreeing to a six-day delay in implementing new rules governing agents who represent the guild’s 15,000 members. The sides are expected to meet again on Monday or Tuesday in the same small-group setting that allowed for more constructive dialogue on Saturday than had been achieved in the formal negotiating sessions with larger groups, according to multiple sources.
David Young, WGA West executive director, told Variety on Sunday that there was enough substance to the discussion that it warranted giving negotiations with the Association of Talent Agents a little more time to play out.
“We had a good conversation and we haven’t really had very many of those,” Young said. “We thought we’d...
The four-hour session at WGA West headquarters ended with the guild agreeing to a six-day delay in implementing new rules governing agents who represent the guild’s 15,000 members. The sides are expected to meet again on Monday or Tuesday in the same small-group setting that allowed for more constructive dialogue on Saturday than had been achieved in the formal negotiating sessions with larger groups, according to multiple sources.
David Young, WGA West executive director, told Variety on Sunday that there was enough substance to the discussion that it warranted giving negotiations with the Association of Talent Agents a little more time to play out.
“We had a good conversation and we haven’t really had very many of those,” Young said. “We thought we’d...
- 4/8/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
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