O.J. Simpson, one of the most controversial figures in America’s history, died on April 10, 2024 of cancer. A former superstar, “The Juice,” as he was known, was an NFL star, as well as a perspective actor who ultimately became one of America’s most notorious public figures after the murder of his wife, Nicole Brown, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in 1994. And while Simpson was acquitted in a criminal trial, he was later found liable for the murders in a civil suit. Simpson never recovered and later ended up in jail for armed robbery and kidnapping. He spent his last years in freedom but was ridden with diseases and disgraced as a public figure.
And while no one really doubts that Simpson did it, despite the acquittal, there seems to be a plan to shoot a movie that claims that Simpson didn’t actually do it. Titled The Juice, originally titled Nicole and O.
And while no one really doubts that Simpson did it, despite the acquittal, there seems to be a plan to shoot a movie that claims that Simpson didn’t actually do it. Titled The Juice, originally titled Nicole and O.
- 4/25/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
A New O.J. Movie Stars the Controversial Charlotte Kirk (But Definitely Not Owen Wilson)
Hey, Hollywood, anybody interested in a partially finished film about how O.J. Simpson might have been innocent? One that stars Charlotte Kirk — the English actress best known for her previous role in taking down moguls Kevin Tsujihara and Ron Meyer in a 2019 sex scandal — as Nicole Brown Simpson? If yes, this is your lucky day. According to British director Joshua Newton, about 30 minutes of The Juice (originally titled Nicole and O.J.) is in the can, mostly flashback scenes featuring Kirk and German-born actor Boris Kodjoe, currently on ABC’s Station 19, who plays the late NFL star turned acquitted murderer. Newton, who has been working on this “satirical thriller” since 2015, says the picture’s main plotline involves a real-life attorney named Douglas McCann who got sucked into various conspiracy theories during Simpson’s 1995 criminal trial.
Hey, Hollywood, anybody interested in a partially finished film about how O.J. Simpson might have been innocent? One that stars Charlotte Kirk — the English actress best known for her previous role in taking down moguls Kevin Tsujihara and Ron Meyer in a 2019 sex scandal — as Nicole Brown Simpson? If yes, this is your lucky day. According to British director Joshua Newton, about 30 minutes of The Juice (originally titled Nicole and O.J.) is in the can, mostly flashback scenes featuring Kirk and German-born actor Boris Kodjoe, currently on ABC’s Station 19, who plays the late NFL star turned acquitted murderer. Newton, who has been working on this “satirical thriller” since 2015, says the picture’s main plotline involves a real-life attorney named Douglas McCann who got sucked into various conspiracy theories during Simpson’s 1995 criminal trial.
- 4/24/2024
- by Edited by Benjamin Svetkey and Edited by Julian Sancton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The USC School of Cinematic Arts has announced that Miky Lee will deliver the 20024 Commencement address.
James Gray, director, writer, and Sca alumnus, will receive the Mary Pickford Alumni Award at the graduation ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium on Friday, May 10, 2024.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, Dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement. “Miky works across borders, cultures, and genres, and champions the kinds of projects our students aspire to creating. We are so pleased she agreed to be this year’s graduation speaker.”
Sca alumnus Jon M. Chu, who graduated in 2003 with a Bfa in film & television production, will speak at this year’s main, university-wide commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at Alumni Park.
As Commencement Speaker,...
James Gray, director, writer, and Sca alumnus, will receive the Mary Pickford Alumni Award at the graduation ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium on Friday, May 10, 2024.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, Dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement. “Miky works across borders, cultures, and genres, and champions the kinds of projects our students aspire to creating. We are so pleased she agreed to be this year’s graduation speaker.”
Sca alumnus Jon M. Chu, who graduated in 2003 with a Bfa in film & television production, will speak at this year’s main, university-wide commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at Alumni Park.
As Commencement Speaker,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Miky Lee, vice chair of Korean media giant Cj, is set to give the USC School of Cinematic Arts 2024 commencement address, organizers said Tuesday.
As a pioneer of the Korean movie wave, Lee has championed Korean directors like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon Ho, and has executive producer credits that include Lady Vengeance, The Host, Snowpiercer, The Handmaiden and Parasite, the latter of which was the first non-English-language film to win the Oscar for best picture.
She will give the commencement address at the graduation ceremony set for May 10 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement.
Organizers also announced that the veteran Hollywood director, writer and...
As a pioneer of the Korean movie wave, Lee has championed Korean directors like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon Ho, and has executive producer credits that include Lady Vengeance, The Host, Snowpiercer, The Handmaiden and Parasite, the latter of which was the first non-English-language film to win the Oscar for best picture.
She will give the commencement address at the graduation ceremony set for May 10 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement.
Organizers also announced that the veteran Hollywood director, writer and...
- 4/16/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In August 2001, Kyle Hausmann-Stokes had just graduated from high school and wanted to escape the confines of his native Wisconsin. So he enlisted in the Army. Then 9/11 happened, and the teen would eventually head to Iraq, where he became a paratrooper. As his three-year enlistment was about to end, he was hit with a stop-loss order, an involuntary extension of active duty.
“I’m crushed. I have these big plans to go to film school,” Hausmann-Stokes remembers. “I get a call one night that the colonel wants to see me in his office. I was known throughout the battalion as the film guy. I was always secretly making films of our airborne jumps and our jungle warfare training. The colonel said, ‘I think you might be destined for something different than going to war with us right now. I’ve made arrangements for you and only you to be exempt from this stop-loss.
“I’m crushed. I have these big plans to go to film school,” Hausmann-Stokes remembers. “I get a call one night that the colonel wants to see me in his office. I was known throughout the battalion as the film guy. I was always secretly making films of our airborne jumps and our jungle warfare training. The colonel said, ‘I think you might be destined for something different than going to war with us right now. I’ve made arrangements for you and only you to be exempt from this stop-loss.
- 3/6/2024
- by Tatiana Siegel
- Variety Film + TV
Two shady figures walk into a club, raising the suspicions of Detective Axel Foley. Foley needs help to deal with both men, but the pair of officers keeping an eye on him — Sergeant Taggart (John Ashton) and Detective Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold) — don’t trust him. Furthermore, he’s in a public place, which means that his actions could harm civilians.
After his pleading convinces Taggart and Rosewood to help out, Axel approaches one of the potential troublemakers.
“Phillip!” Foley shouts, adopting the stagger and slurred speech patterns of a drunk man as he approaches the confused suspect. Foley continues the act even after the suspect pulls a gun and threatens the patrons, which allows him to get close enough to yank the weapon away.
You probably recognize the above scene as one of the standout moments of 1984’s Beverly Hills Cop, in which Foley shows off his keen detective...
After his pleading convinces Taggart and Rosewood to help out, Axel approaches one of the potential troublemakers.
“Phillip!” Foley shouts, adopting the stagger and slurred speech patterns of a drunk man as he approaches the confused suspect. Foley continues the act even after the suspect pulls a gun and threatens the patrons, which allows him to get close enough to yank the weapon away.
You probably recognize the above scene as one of the standout moments of 1984’s Beverly Hills Cop, in which Foley shows off his keen detective...
- 2/12/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Whoopi Goldberg is looking back at how Patrick Swayze convinced her to take on her Oscar-winning role in 1990’s Ghost.
The actress told author Dave Karger in his new book 50 Oscar Nights, via People magazine, that she needed a bit of persuading before she decided to play psychic Oda Mae Brown in the Jerry Zucker-directed film.
“I get a phone call from my agent, Ron Meyer, who says, ‘Patrick Swayze has been hired for this movie. Patrick is not going to do this if you don’t do it. Can you make some time for him and the director to come up?’” Goldberg recalled.
The Egot winner added, “So they [Zucker and Swayze] flew in, I meet Patrick, and out of the blue, we’re old friends. … About 40 minutes go by and Patrick says, ‘Please do this [movie] with me.’ I was like, ‘Yeah, okay.’ And that’s how it happened.”
In Ghost,...
The actress told author Dave Karger in his new book 50 Oscar Nights, via People magazine, that she needed a bit of persuading before she decided to play psychic Oda Mae Brown in the Jerry Zucker-directed film.
“I get a phone call from my agent, Ron Meyer, who says, ‘Patrick Swayze has been hired for this movie. Patrick is not going to do this if you don’t do it. Can you make some time for him and the director to come up?’” Goldberg recalled.
The Egot winner added, “So they [Zucker and Swayze] flew in, I meet Patrick, and out of the blue, we’re old friends. … About 40 minutes go by and Patrick says, ‘Please do this [movie] with me.’ I was like, ‘Yeah, okay.’ And that’s how it happened.”
In Ghost,...
- 1/14/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
With a guest list made up of high-level venture capitalists and tech executives from the likes of Coatue Management and 500 Startups, the upcoming Web Summit Qatar was positioned as a kind of coming-out party for the nation as a business and entertainment force to be reckoned with. Now, weeks after the terrorist attack by Hamas against Israel, those plans are in jeopardy. Coatue and others abruptly canceled their plans earlier this month even though for now the Web Summit is still set for February of next year.
For years Qatar, a monarchy that borders Saudi Arabia, has sought to use its vast oil wealth to establish itself as a hub for media, culture and entertainment despite its minuscule size (population 2.7 million). Home to the influential Al-Jazeera network, Qatar is a major investor in Peter Chernin’s The North Road studio, Elon Musk’s Twitter, the majority owner of Miramax and also hosted the 2022 World Cup.
For years Qatar, a monarchy that borders Saudi Arabia, has sought to use its vast oil wealth to establish itself as a hub for media, culture and entertainment despite its minuscule size (population 2.7 million). Home to the influential Al-Jazeera network, Qatar is a major investor in Peter Chernin’s The North Road studio, Elon Musk’s Twitter, the majority owner of Miramax and also hosted the 2022 World Cup.
- 10/31/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
For those of a certain age who like to think that they’re still young — and who doesn’t? — it is sobering to realize that when Michael Ovitz bowed out of the agency business in 1995, neither Tom Holland nor Zendaya had even been born.
People who weren’t around in those days can’t begin to appreciate the fear that Ovitz inspired in Hollywood. He wielded the kind of power that no agent has mustered since and no agent ever will again. How the times and the town have changed.
One thing has remained constant in all the years since Ovitz left the building: Three then-young men who had emerged as future leaders of CAA well before Ovitz departed are still at the helm. Perhaps in spite of himself, Ovitz nailed the succession question that has led to so much drama at Disney and Paramount. But those three men — now...
People who weren’t around in those days can’t begin to appreciate the fear that Ovitz inspired in Hollywood. He wielded the kind of power that no agent has mustered since and no agent ever will again. How the times and the town have changed.
One thing has remained constant in all the years since Ovitz left the building: Three then-young men who had emerged as future leaders of CAA well before Ovitz departed are still at the helm. Perhaps in spite of himself, Ovitz nailed the succession question that has led to so much drama at Disney and Paramount. But those three men — now...
- 9/20/2023
- by Kim Masters
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Donna Langley is a dame in waiting no more.
The veteran movie executive, with deep ties to Hollywood filmmakers and a knack for shepherding blockbusters to the screen, ascended to NBCUniversal’s content throne on Thursday, one of the big winners in a sweeping reorganization made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who oversees NBCUniversal.
In her new role as chief content officer, Langley won’t just be overseeing Universal’s slate of films. She will also take ownership of its TV and streaming creative strategy. It’s an elevation that many industry players saw as inevitable – after all, how much longer could the company keep the in-demand executive without expanding her portfolio?
However, that also shortchanges Langley’s talent for C-suite survival, one that’s seen her withstand mergers and sales, as well as a revolving door of leaders and associates such as Ron Meyer, Adam Fogelson and Jeff Shell,...
The veteran movie executive, with deep ties to Hollywood filmmakers and a knack for shepherding blockbusters to the screen, ascended to NBCUniversal’s content throne on Thursday, one of the big winners in a sweeping reorganization made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who oversees NBCUniversal.
In her new role as chief content officer, Langley won’t just be overseeing Universal’s slate of films. She will also take ownership of its TV and streaming creative strategy. It’s an elevation that many industry players saw as inevitable – after all, how much longer could the company keep the in-demand executive without expanding her portfolio?
However, that also shortchanges Langley’s talent for C-suite survival, one that’s seen her withstand mergers and sales, as well as a revolving door of leaders and associates such as Ron Meyer, Adam Fogelson and Jeff Shell,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Matt Donnelly and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Palisades Park Pictures (Ppp) will be representing global sales for action-thriller Duchess from director Neil Marshall (Hellboy).
Post production recently wrapped with Ppp screening for buyers at the Cannes market next week.
Duchess stars Charlotte Kirk (Vice) in the titular role as she navigates the world of diamond smuggling. Philip Winchester (Strike Back), Colm Meaney (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), Sean Pertwee (Event Horizon), and Stephanie Beacham (Dracula A.D. 1972) also star.
Duchess follows Kirk’s no-nonsense Scarlett Monaghan and her rise from a working-class petty criminal to becoming a ruthless organized crime leader in the seedy underbelly of the diamond smuggling circuit of Tenerife.
Marshall and Kirk co-penned the screenplay, with Emily Corcoran of Cork Films and Kristyna Sellnerova as producers.
Joe Simpson, Simon Williams, Jonathan Bross and Matthew E. Chausse of Ashland Hill Media Finance and Norman Merry and Peter Hampden of Lip Sync executive-produced along with Jon Dean,...
Post production recently wrapped with Ppp screening for buyers at the Cannes market next week.
Duchess stars Charlotte Kirk (Vice) in the titular role as she navigates the world of diamond smuggling. Philip Winchester (Strike Back), Colm Meaney (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), Sean Pertwee (Event Horizon), and Stephanie Beacham (Dracula A.D. 1972) also star.
Duchess follows Kirk’s no-nonsense Scarlett Monaghan and her rise from a working-class petty criminal to becoming a ruthless organized crime leader in the seedy underbelly of the diamond smuggling circuit of Tenerife.
Marshall and Kirk co-penned the screenplay, with Emily Corcoran of Cork Films and Kristyna Sellnerova as producers.
Joe Simpson, Simon Williams, Jonathan Bross and Matthew E. Chausse of Ashland Hill Media Finance and Norman Merry and Peter Hampden of Lip Sync executive-produced along with Jon Dean,...
- 5/12/2023
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Wearing a nondescript gray T-shirt with a backstage pass dangling from his neck, Jeff Shell looked more like a snowy-haired roadie than a VIP as he milled about in the wings of the Sahara Tent ahead of Blink-182’s set at Coachella on April 14. The NBCUniversal CEO had spent the day at the festival with his wife, Laura, in anticipation of the band’s first show in nearly a decade. Later, he took a seat alongside a leather-clad Kourtney Kardashian, whose long-running “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” holds a significant presence in the NBCUniversal spread, with all 20 seasons of the reality show having recently moved from Hulu to Peacock. But Shell wasn’t there on business. He enjoys close ties with the band’s bassist and co-lead vocalist, Mark Hoppus, a friendship forged thanks to their kids attending the same school in L.A.
While all appeared normal on the...
While all appeared normal on the...
- 4/26/2023
- by Tatiana Siegel
- Variety Film + TV
In the aftermath of the shock ouster of NBC Universal’s CEO, industry executives present a tale of two Jeff Shells. To some, Shell’s acknowledgment that he was departing because of “an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company” came as a bolt from the blue. To others, not so much.
“I’m totally flabbergasted,” says an executive who says he was close to Shell. “Jeff was supposed to be the buttoned-up guy.” Asked if he had suspicions of improper conduct, a former NBCU executive says, “No, not at all. Not even a whiff. Not even an inkling.” Another, though not a fan of Shell, says, “I’ve never seen any of that [kind of behavior]. Never. I’ve never even seen him be flirtatious.”
A different portrait emerges from other NBCU sources. Shell “always had a crush on someone,” says one (female) former insider. “I knew he had crushes and said inappropriate things.
“I’m totally flabbergasted,” says an executive who says he was close to Shell. “Jeff was supposed to be the buttoned-up guy.” Asked if he had suspicions of improper conduct, a former NBCU executive says, “No, not at all. Not even a whiff. Not even an inkling.” Another, though not a fan of Shell, says, “I’ve never seen any of that [kind of behavior]. Never. I’ve never even seen him be flirtatious.”
A different portrait emerges from other NBCU sources. Shell “always had a crush on someone,” says one (female) former insider. “I knew he had crushes and said inappropriate things.
- 4/26/2023
- by Kim Masters
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Comcast’s investigation into ousted NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell stemmed from a complaint filed by CNBC anchor and senior international correspondent Hadley Gamble.
“The investigation into Mr. Shell arose from a complaint by my client of sexual harassment and sex discrimination,” Gamble’s attorney Suzanne McKie of Farore Law said in a statement. “Given these circumstances, it is very disappointing that my client’s name has been released and her privacy violated.”
Gamble, who is based from CNBC’s Middle East headquarters in Abu Dhabi, covers energy, geopolitics and financial markets and is the anchor of “Capital Connection.” She also presents CNBC’s popular documentary franchise ‘Access: Middle East’, where she speaks to world leaders, international CEOs and philanthropists. She has worked at CNBC since 2010.
Two sources familiar with Gamble’s situation at CNBC told TheWrap that her contract was up and had not been renewed, a decision she learned...
“The investigation into Mr. Shell arose from a complaint by my client of sexual harassment and sex discrimination,” Gamble’s attorney Suzanne McKie of Farore Law said in a statement. “Given these circumstances, it is very disappointing that my client’s name has been released and her privacy violated.”
Gamble, who is based from CNBC’s Middle East headquarters in Abu Dhabi, covers energy, geopolitics and financial markets and is the anchor of “Capital Connection.” She also presents CNBC’s popular documentary franchise ‘Access: Middle East’, where she speaks to world leaders, international CEOs and philanthropists. She has worked at CNBC since 2010.
Two sources familiar with Gamble’s situation at CNBC told TheWrap that her contract was up and had not been renewed, a decision she learned...
- 4/24/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
After steering NBCUniversal through a global pandemic and a roiling stock market, Jeff Shell in January thought he had some good news for investors: Better times were just around the corner.
“I’m pretty confident that we have a lot of growth ahead in NBCUniversal,” he told Wall Street analysts during a recent conference call. He called for new activity at the company’s amusement parks after a long fallow period caused by the Covid pandemic, as well as a boost to paying subscribers at the company’s Peacock streaming hub.
Now a different executive will be charged with finding out whether Shell’s projections will come to pass.
Comcast, NBCU’s corporate parent, stunned Wall Street and the entertainment industry Sunday afternoon by announcing that Shell, a media-industry veteran who took NBCU’s reins from previous CEO Steve Burke in 2020, was leaving the company immediately after acknowledging an inappropriate relationship with an employee.
“I’m pretty confident that we have a lot of growth ahead in NBCUniversal,” he told Wall Street analysts during a recent conference call. He called for new activity at the company’s amusement parks after a long fallow period caused by the Covid pandemic, as well as a boost to paying subscribers at the company’s Peacock streaming hub.
Now a different executive will be charged with finding out whether Shell’s projections will come to pass.
Comcast, NBCU’s corporate parent, stunned Wall Street and the entertainment industry Sunday afternoon by announcing that Shell, a media-industry veteran who took NBCU’s reins from previous CEO Steve Burke in 2020, was leaving the company immediately after acknowledging an inappropriate relationship with an employee.
- 4/23/2023
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: Comcast dropped a bombshell Sunday, announcing that NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell is leaving the company, effective immediately. The “mutual” decision comes after an investigation led by outside counsel into a complaint on inappropriate conduct by Shell.
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal,” Shell said in a statement. “I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret,” said Shell, who is married. “I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 10 years has been a privilege.”
Comcast made the announcement in a short press release; no successor has been named. In a memo to staff, Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian Roberts and President Mike Cavanagh said that in the interim, Shell’s senior team will report directly to Cavanagh.
That includes Donna Langley,...
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal,” Shell said in a statement. “I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret,” said Shell, who is married. “I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 10 years has been a privilege.”
Comcast made the announcement in a short press release; no successor has been named. In a memo to staff, Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian Roberts and President Mike Cavanagh said that in the interim, Shell’s senior team will report directly to Cavanagh.
That includes Donna Langley,...
- 4/23/2023
- by Lynette Rice and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Jeff Shell is stepping down as CEO of NBCUniversal following an internal investigation for what has been described as an “inappropriate relationship” with an employee. The “mutual” decision was announced by NBCUniversal’s parent company Comcast on Sunday afternoon.
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal. I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret,” Shell said in a statement. “I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 10 years has been a privilege.”
Shell had served as CEO since January 1, 2020. His tenure notably resulted in a deal that brought all of the company’s new film releases, including titles from Illumination and Focus Features, to Peacock following their theatrical releases. Comcast president Michael Cavanagh will take over as interim CEO of the entertainment company.
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal. I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret,” Shell said in a statement. “I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 10 years has been a privilege.”
Shell had served as CEO since January 1, 2020. His tenure notably resulted in a deal that brought all of the company’s new film releases, including titles from Illumination and Focus Features, to Peacock following their theatrical releases. Comcast president Michael Cavanagh will take over as interim CEO of the entertainment company.
- 4/23/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Wild Bunch International, the sales company behind “Titane” and “Happening” (pictured), has renamed itself as Goodfellas.
In a brief press release, the company said “there are no other changes to the structure created in 2019.” Wild Bunch International was launched in 2019 as a standalone sales company by French film industry veterans Vincent Maraval and Brahim Chioua. The pair had previously co-founded Wild Bunch, which is now owned by German entrepreneur Lars Windhorst and ran by former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer and former beIN Media Group executive Sophie Jordan.
Wild Bunch International was created shortly after Wild Bunch completed its restructuring plan. Under their three-year deal, Wild Bunch had a minority stake in the new banner and allowed it to use the Wild Bunch brand. The three-year pact ended in November and the two companies no longer have corporate ties. But Goodfellas said it will continue working with Wild Bunch on...
In a brief press release, the company said “there are no other changes to the structure created in 2019.” Wild Bunch International was launched in 2019 as a standalone sales company by French film industry veterans Vincent Maraval and Brahim Chioua. The pair had previously co-founded Wild Bunch, which is now owned by German entrepreneur Lars Windhorst and ran by former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer and former beIN Media Group executive Sophie Jordan.
Wild Bunch International was created shortly after Wild Bunch completed its restructuring plan. Under their three-year deal, Wild Bunch had a minority stake in the new banner and allowed it to use the Wild Bunch brand. The three-year pact ended in November and the two companies no longer have corporate ties. But Goodfellas said it will continue working with Wild Bunch on...
- 3/29/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Wild Bunch International, which bid farewell to its legendary company moniker at a bash in Paris in January, has announced its new name.
Taking inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-nominated 1990 hit, the international sales company has been renamed as Goodfellas.
Related Story Wild Bunch’s Vincent Maraval & Brahim Chioua Talk New Era As They Move On From The Company’s Iconic Name: “I’ve Been Through My Period Of Mourning” — Deadline Q&a Related Story Series Mania Festival 2023 Winners Announced Related Story France Bans TikTok & Other "Recreational Apps" Such as Netflix, Candy Crush & Twitter From State Employee Work Phones – Updated
The dropping of the original name marks the final act in the company’s departure from the pan-European Wild Bunch Ag film group that began in 2019.
“The international sales company will now be called Goodfellas. There are no other changes to the structure created in 2019,” the company said in a short statement.
Taking inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-nominated 1990 hit, the international sales company has been renamed as Goodfellas.
Related Story Wild Bunch’s Vincent Maraval & Brahim Chioua Talk New Era As They Move On From The Company’s Iconic Name: “I’ve Been Through My Period Of Mourning” — Deadline Q&a Related Story Series Mania Festival 2023 Winners Announced Related Story France Bans TikTok & Other "Recreational Apps" Such as Netflix, Candy Crush & Twitter From State Employee Work Phones – Updated
The dropping of the original name marks the final act in the company’s departure from the pan-European Wild Bunch Ag film group that began in 2019.
“The international sales company will now be called Goodfellas. There are no other changes to the structure created in 2019,” the company said in a short statement.
- 3/29/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Imagine Entertainment co-founders, Oscar winners and USC School of Cinematic Arts alums Brian Grazer and Ron Howard will deliver the school’s commencement address in May, the university said Thursday.
Grazer, who also serves on the School of Cinematic Arts Board of Councilors, received a BA in Psychology at USC in 1974. Howard attended courses at the School of Cinematic Arts. Both received honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degrees from USC in 2022.
The pair, who have teamed on the likes of Oscar Best Picture winner A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, 8 Mile and 24, Parenthood and Friday Night Lights among other hits join a list of previous commencement addressees that includes Matt Reeves last year along with Ryan Coogler, Jon M. Chu, Donna Langley, Ron Meyer, Paul Feig and more.
Tracy Oliver
The ceremony, to be held Friday, May 12 at the Shrine Auditorium, will also see producer-writer-director Tracy Oliver honored with the Mary Pickford Alumni Award,...
Grazer, who also serves on the School of Cinematic Arts Board of Councilors, received a BA in Psychology at USC in 1974. Howard attended courses at the School of Cinematic Arts. Both received honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degrees from USC in 2022.
The pair, who have teamed on the likes of Oscar Best Picture winner A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, 8 Mile and 24, Parenthood and Friday Night Lights among other hits join a list of previous commencement addressees that includes Matt Reeves last year along with Ryan Coogler, Jon M. Chu, Donna Langley, Ron Meyer, Paul Feig and more.
Tracy Oliver
The ceremony, to be held Friday, May 12 at the Shrine Auditorium, will also see producer-writer-director Tracy Oliver honored with the Mary Pickford Alumni Award,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Pamela Anderson made some shocking revelations in her new memoir Love, Pamela.
While the actress and model spent much of the book discussing her artistic inspirations and recounting her childhood, she also revealed some stories about her former lovers including her ex-husband Kid Rock.
According to Anderson, Kid Rock – whose real name is Robert James Ritchie – didn’t like her hanging out with her close friend, David Lachapelle. Despite the photographer being gay, Ritchie was apparently jealous of their friendship, and she said Ritche “didn’t believe David was really gay.”
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
“David and I have always been very close, soulmates in some ways,” she writes. “I’d found someone who accepted me, full stop, and nurtured and instigated the artistic side of me like no one else.”
Anderson also revealed the surprising reason she and Ritchie broke up. She recalled the time...
While the actress and model spent much of the book discussing her artistic inspirations and recounting her childhood, she also revealed some stories about her former lovers including her ex-husband Kid Rock.
According to Anderson, Kid Rock – whose real name is Robert James Ritchie – didn’t like her hanging out with her close friend, David Lachapelle. Despite the photographer being gay, Ritchie was apparently jealous of their friendship, and she said Ritche “didn’t believe David was really gay.”
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
“David and I have always been very close, soulmates in some ways,” she writes. “I’d found someone who accepted me, full stop, and nurtured and instigated the artistic side of me like no one else.”
Anderson also revealed the surprising reason she and Ritchie broke up. She recalled the time...
- 2/2/2023
- by Miranda Dipaolo
- Uinterview
According to Pamela Anderson, her former husband Kid Rock despised her “Borat” cameo.
The “Baywatch” alum wrote in her memoir “Love, Pamela” that following a private screening at CAA founder and former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer’s home with Steven Spielberg in attendance, Rock (aka Robert “Bob” James Ritchie) yelled at Anderson and called her a “whore,” among other expletives.
“We were about to move in, until the premiere of ‘Borat,'” Anderson wrote of her relationship with Rock. “The screening at Ron and Kelly Meyer’s house didn’t go well. Lots of important industry people were there: Steven Spielberg, Rick Rubin, Laird Hamilton and his wife, Gabby Reece. I didn’t tell Bob I was in the movie, because I wanted to surprise him.”
She continued, “I forgot about the part in the film that referenced the ‘sextape.’ Bob stormed out, calling me a whore and worse.
The “Baywatch” alum wrote in her memoir “Love, Pamela” that following a private screening at CAA founder and former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer’s home with Steven Spielberg in attendance, Rock (aka Robert “Bob” James Ritchie) yelled at Anderson and called her a “whore,” among other expletives.
“We were about to move in, until the premiere of ‘Borat,'” Anderson wrote of her relationship with Rock. “The screening at Ron and Kelly Meyer’s house didn’t go well. Lots of important industry people were there: Steven Spielberg, Rick Rubin, Laird Hamilton and his wife, Gabby Reece. I didn’t tell Bob I was in the movie, because I wanted to surprise him.”
She continued, “I forgot about the part in the film that referenced the ‘sextape.’ Bob stormed out, calling me a whore and worse.
- 2/1/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Bryan Lourd, CAA managing director and co-chairman, will deliver the keynote address at Variety‘s annual Dealmakers event saluting the industry’s top players and biggest M&a transactions of the year.
Lourd will sit with Claudia Eller, Variety‘s Chief Production Officer, on Dec. 13 at the Palm in Beverly Hills for a deep-dive interview about his agency’s acquisition of longtime competitor ICM Partners as well as his outlook for the industry in 2023. CAA took ownership of ICM Partners in a 750 million deal that was completed in late June.
“Bryan Lourd’s name has always been synonymous with ‘rainmaker’ and this past year he helped guide CAA’s acquisition of ICM Partners — a transformative transaction that changed the agency landscape,” Eller said. “Along with being one of the most influential agents and dealmakers in Hollywood, Bryan is also highly regarded as an industry statesman and trusted consigliere to many...
Lourd will sit with Claudia Eller, Variety‘s Chief Production Officer, on Dec. 13 at the Palm in Beverly Hills for a deep-dive interview about his agency’s acquisition of longtime competitor ICM Partners as well as his outlook for the industry in 2023. CAA took ownership of ICM Partners in a 750 million deal that was completed in late June.
“Bryan Lourd’s name has always been synonymous with ‘rainmaker’ and this past year he helped guide CAA’s acquisition of ICM Partners — a transformative transaction that changed the agency landscape,” Eller said. “Along with being one of the most influential agents and dealmakers in Hollywood, Bryan is also highly regarded as an industry statesman and trusted consigliere to many...
- 12/1/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer’s close-knit family is filled with lifestyle moguls-in-the-making, with four women in the clan helming consumer product companies. “The idea wasn’t to start a quote-unquote company,” says his oldest daughter, Jennifer Meyer, the celebrated jewelry designer who became the first entrepreneur of his children. “I thought, ‘Let me see if I can do something that I love.’ “
The family patriarch, who stepped down from NBCUniversal in 2020, is currently an adviser to the Doha Film Institute and co-ceo of Wild Bunch, a European production and distribution company. His son, Eli, and first wife, Ellen, also have more traditional entertainment jobs — Eli works in the original films department at Netflix and Ellen runs talent firm Ellen Meyer Management (clients include Naveen Andrews and Rosanna Arquette). Here’s the scoop on the brand-building efforts of the rest of the family.
Former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer’s close-knit family is filled with lifestyle moguls-in-the-making, with four women in the clan helming consumer product companies. “The idea wasn’t to start a quote-unquote company,” says his oldest daughter, Jennifer Meyer, the celebrated jewelry designer who became the first entrepreneur of his children. “I thought, ‘Let me see if I can do something that I love.’ “
The family patriarch, who stepped down from NBCUniversal in 2020, is currently an adviser to the Doha Film Institute and co-ceo of Wild Bunch, a European production and distribution company. His son, Eli, and first wife, Ellen, also have more traditional entertainment jobs — Eli works in the original films department at Netflix and Ellen runs talent firm Ellen Meyer Management (clients include Naveen Andrews and Rosanna Arquette). Here’s the scoop on the brand-building efforts of the rest of the family.
- 10/23/2022
- by Lindzi Scharf
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nikki Finke was terrifying.
When the late Hollywood journalist called — the phone was her weapon of choice — the most powerful players in Hollywood shivered. That’s because she could write anything, and there was nobody to call if you didn’t like what she wrote. I learned this the hard way, even though we were friendly over the years: We had lunch at Hugo’s, shared a storage unit, and spent hours together in her West Hollywood apartment as I tried in vain to get her to press “send” on her brilliant CAA chapter for Premiere Magazine, which was scheduled in two subsequent issues but never ran.
Nor did her much-touted book ever get published, as publishers hired co-writers in vain; over the years, Finke’s cogent agency reporting eventually wound up on Deadline. And Finke participated (by phone) in a 2005 meeting with David Poland, Jeffrey Wells, and me about possibly launching a website.
When the late Hollywood journalist called — the phone was her weapon of choice — the most powerful players in Hollywood shivered. That’s because she could write anything, and there was nobody to call if you didn’t like what she wrote. I learned this the hard way, even though we were friendly over the years: We had lunch at Hugo’s, shared a storage unit, and spent hours together in her West Hollywood apartment as I tried in vain to get her to press “send” on her brilliant CAA chapter for Premiere Magazine, which was scheduled in two subsequent issues but never ran.
Nor did her much-touted book ever get published, as publishers hired co-writers in vain; over the years, Finke’s cogent agency reporting eventually wound up on Deadline. And Finke participated (by phone) in a 2005 meeting with David Poland, Jeffrey Wells, and me about possibly launching a website.
- 10/9/2022
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Cécile Gaget, a former senior executive at Anton Capital and Gaumont, is set to join Wild Bunch as head of film.
It’s a new era for Wild Bunch, which was previously co-headed by Vincent Maraval, Vincent Grimond and Brahim Chioua. It’s now led by Ron Meyer, a veteran studio chief and CAA co-founder, and Sophie Jordan, a former beIN Media Group executive.
Gaget will lead the film group reporting to Meyer and Jordan. Gaget, who is well-regarded in the industry and enjoys close relationships with talent, will be overseeing French acquisitions, distribution and local production. She’ll also be ramping up an international production slate, including English-speaking projects for Wild Bunch Ag, who will act as producer and financier.
Gaget is joining from Anton, where she began working in 2020 as president of international production and distribution, helping the banner ramp up the slate production and sales team. She...
It’s a new era for Wild Bunch, which was previously co-headed by Vincent Maraval, Vincent Grimond and Brahim Chioua. It’s now led by Ron Meyer, a veteran studio chief and CAA co-founder, and Sophie Jordan, a former beIN Media Group executive.
Gaget will lead the film group reporting to Meyer and Jordan. Gaget, who is well-regarded in the industry and enjoys close relationships with talent, will be overseeing French acquisitions, distribution and local production. She’ll also be ramping up an international production slate, including English-speaking projects for Wild Bunch Ag, who will act as producer and financier.
Gaget is joining from Anton, where she began working in 2020 as president of international production and distribution, helping the banner ramp up the slate production and sales team. She...
- 9/1/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
International sales and production veteran Cécile Gaget has been appointed as Head of Film at leading European indie studio Wild Bunch, as it expands under the leadership of CEO Ron Meyer and co-ceo Sophie Jordan.
Gaget, who takes up her role today (September 1), will lead the studio’s film group and report to Meyer and Jordan.
Her focus will be overseeing French acquisitions, distribution and local production as well as building an international production slate including English-speaking projects for Wild Bunch, which will act as producer and financier.
The appointment comes amid a period of great change for the company following the surprise arrival of veteran studio chief and CAA co-founder Meyer and former beIN Media Group executive Jordan as CEO and co-ceo last November.
“I am very excited to join Wild Bunch and work along with Sophie and Ron to be part of the company’s dynamic next chapter.
Gaget, who takes up her role today (September 1), will lead the studio’s film group and report to Meyer and Jordan.
Her focus will be overseeing French acquisitions, distribution and local production as well as building an international production slate including English-speaking projects for Wild Bunch, which will act as producer and financier.
The appointment comes amid a period of great change for the company following the surprise arrival of veteran studio chief and CAA co-founder Meyer and former beIN Media Group executive Jordan as CEO and co-ceo last November.
“I am very excited to join Wild Bunch and work along with Sophie and Ron to be part of the company’s dynamic next chapter.
- 9/1/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
French film executive previously spent a decade at Gaumont.
Cecile Gaget has been appointed head of film at European studio Wild Bunch, stepping down from her senior role at UK-based producer and financier Anton.
The French executive takes up the new role from today (September 1), joining from Anton where she was president of international production and distribution for nearly two years. She previously spent a decade on the executive team of French studio Gaumont as head of international production and distribution, setting up the company’s US film division during her tenure.
Based in Paris, Gaget will lead Wild Bunch...
Cecile Gaget has been appointed head of film at European studio Wild Bunch, stepping down from her senior role at UK-based producer and financier Anton.
The French executive takes up the new role from today (September 1), joining from Anton where she was president of international production and distribution for nearly two years. She previously spent a decade on the executive team of French studio Gaumont as head of international production and distribution, setting up the company’s US film division during her tenure.
Based in Paris, Gaget will lead Wild Bunch...
- 9/1/2022
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Click here to read the full article.
I take great pride when I read news stories in my Hollywood Reporter about young people from a wide array of ethnic groups making their entry into the wonderful world of motion pictures. Last month, almost 400 people, many from the Asian, African-American and Latino communities, were invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. More than a few of them have experienced hardship, discrimination and intolerance, but they persevered and can now take great pride in being members of the film industry’s most prestigious organization.
I know the feeling well.
I was born on the Lower East Side in 1939. My parents were born in Europe and were lucky to arrive in this country before the Holocaust, unlike other members of our family who were murdered by the Nazis. We lived in the projects just off the East River Drive.
I take great pride when I read news stories in my Hollywood Reporter about young people from a wide array of ethnic groups making their entry into the wonderful world of motion pictures. Last month, almost 400 people, many from the Asian, African-American and Latino communities, were invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. More than a few of them have experienced hardship, discrimination and intolerance, but they persevered and can now take great pride in being members of the film industry’s most prestigious organization.
I know the feeling well.
I was born on the Lower East Side in 1939. My parents were born in Europe and were lucky to arrive in this country before the Holocaust, unlike other members of our family who were murdered by the Nazis. We lived in the projects just off the East River Drive.
- 8/2/2022
- by Rabbi Marvin Hier
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jenny Groom, the top executive at NBCUniveral’s unscripted division, is leaving her position at the company, an individual with knowledge of the situation confirmed to TheWrap.
Groom, who got her start as an NBC page, was made EVP of Entertainment Unscripted Content in 2020 after working at the network for nearly two decades. In her role, she headed up reality and competition series for NBC and Peacock under NBCU’s Entertainment Television and Streaming portfolio, which also counts Bravo, E!, Oxygen, Syfy, Universal Kids and USA Network among its ranks. Shows under Groom’s domain included “The Voice,” “America’s Got Talent,” “American Ninja Warrior” and “Temptation Island.”
A previous SVP of Alternative Programming and Development group, the Texas native launched and developed series like “Little Big Shots,” “Better Late Than Never,” and “The Wall.” In 2017, she was promoted to head of the Alternative department under Paul Telegdy, former boss of...
Groom, who got her start as an NBC page, was made EVP of Entertainment Unscripted Content in 2020 after working at the network for nearly two decades. In her role, she headed up reality and competition series for NBC and Peacock under NBCU’s Entertainment Television and Streaming portfolio, which also counts Bravo, E!, Oxygen, Syfy, Universal Kids and USA Network among its ranks. Shows under Groom’s domain included “The Voice,” “America’s Got Talent,” “American Ninja Warrior” and “Temptation Island.”
A previous SVP of Alternative Programming and Development group, the Texas native launched and developed series like “Little Big Shots,” “Better Late Than Never,” and “The Wall.” In 2017, she was promoted to head of the Alternative department under Paul Telegdy, former boss of...
- 7/26/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Variety has been given exclusive access to the first-look images from Neil Marshall’s action crime thriller “Duchess,” starring British actor Charlotte Kirk, who was linked to the downfall of two Hollywood moguls. Principal photography is in its third week on the movie, which is shooting in Tenerife.
The film is co-written by Marshall and Kirk, the creative duo behind “The Lair,” which opens London’s horror and fantasy film festival Frightfest next month.
Marshall’s credits include “Game of Thrones,” for which he received an Emmy nomination, “The Descent,” for which he won best director at the British Independent Film Awards, and, most recently, 2019’s “Hellboy” and 2020’s “The Reckoning,” which also starred and was co-written by Kirk.
Kirk became front-page news in Hollywood after her extramarital affairs with Kevin Tsujihara, at that time CEO of Warner Bros., and Ron Meyer, the then vice chairman of NBCUniversal, led to their dismissals.
The film is co-written by Marshall and Kirk, the creative duo behind “The Lair,” which opens London’s horror and fantasy film festival Frightfest next month.
Marshall’s credits include “Game of Thrones,” for which he received an Emmy nomination, “The Descent,” for which he won best director at the British Independent Film Awards, and, most recently, 2019’s “Hellboy” and 2020’s “The Reckoning,” which also starred and was co-written by Kirk.
Kirk became front-page news in Hollywood after her extramarital affairs with Kevin Tsujihara, at that time CEO of Warner Bros., and Ron Meyer, the then vice chairman of NBCUniversal, led to their dismissals.
- 7/26/2022
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
CAA co-founder and former NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer dove into his controversial exit from the Comcast entertainment company in a recent freewheeling and honest interview with podcast hosts Amy Motta, Gloria Butler, Sloan Kivo and former ICM agent Risa Shapiro.
Meyer conceded on their OnTheRags podcast that he used poor judgment when he opted not to inform NBCU that he had settled a lawsuit over a past consensual affair, leading to his ouster from the company in 2020.
“Universal decided to fire me because I did not tell them that I had settled a potential lawsuit that named them,” Meyer said. “I hope I’m saying this right, but that’s exactly what happened, and it wasn’t a ‘Me Too’ situation. It wasn’t anything other than that.”
Also Read:
Comcast’s Brian Roberts, NBCU’s Jeff Shell Got Pay Bumps in 2021
The former studio head said he was...
Meyer conceded on their OnTheRags podcast that he used poor judgment when he opted not to inform NBCU that he had settled a lawsuit over a past consensual affair, leading to his ouster from the company in 2020.
“Universal decided to fire me because I did not tell them that I had settled a potential lawsuit that named them,” Meyer said. “I hope I’m saying this right, but that’s exactly what happened, and it wasn’t a ‘Me Too’ situation. It wasn’t anything other than that.”
Also Read:
Comcast’s Brian Roberts, NBCU’s Jeff Shell Got Pay Bumps in 2021
The former studio head said he was...
- 7/8/2022
- by Brandon Katz
- The Wrap
Ex-NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer opened up about his clouded departure from his former job in a wide-ranging podcast earlier this month, admitting to bad judgment while saying he didn’t begrudge his firing. A relaxed Meyer appeared in the OnTheRags podcast, a discussion with former ICM agent Risa Shapiro, Amy Motta, Gloria Butler, and Sloan Kivo. Meyer was not hesitant to talk about anything, including his long-rumored tattoos.and how life has changed since his departure from NBCUniversal, one of the top jobs in Hollywood.
Meyer was dismissed as NBCUniversal vice chairman in August 2020 after he disclosed that he made hush-money payments to a woman to cover up an old affair. A founder of CAA before helming NBCU, Meyer was one of Hollywood’s titans, making his fall from grace all the steeper.
Still, he’s maintained his perspective on things. “I just got back from Cannes,” Meyer said.
Meyer was dismissed as NBCUniversal vice chairman in August 2020 after he disclosed that he made hush-money payments to a woman to cover up an old affair. A founder of CAA before helming NBCU, Meyer was one of Hollywood’s titans, making his fall from grace all the steeper.
Still, he’s maintained his perspective on things. “I just got back from Cannes,” Meyer said.
- 7/8/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
More than 100 employees will be laid off as a result of the merger between Hollywood talent giants CAA and ICM Partners, Variety has learned.
It is expected that 425 employees will make the transition from ICM to CAA, resulting in a combined staff total of approximately 3,200 employees at the supersized CAA. Meanwhile, 105 current ICM employees will be laid off following the close of the transaction.
CAA and ICM announced the deal, valued at 750 million, had been finalized Tuesday, 10 months after the Hollywood talent agencies first revealed the acquisition plans in September 2021.
The agreement marks the largest talent agency transaction since WME acquired Img in 2014 and Endeavor joined forces with William Morris Agency in 2009, which forged the contemporary WME. It also reduces the competition among the mega agency playing field, with the Big Four of CAA, ICM, WME and UTA being reduced to the Big Three of CAA, WME and UTA.
CAA...
It is expected that 425 employees will make the transition from ICM to CAA, resulting in a combined staff total of approximately 3,200 employees at the supersized CAA. Meanwhile, 105 current ICM employees will be laid off following the close of the transaction.
CAA and ICM announced the deal, valued at 750 million, had been finalized Tuesday, 10 months after the Hollywood talent agencies first revealed the acquisition plans in September 2021.
The agreement marks the largest talent agency transaction since WME acquired Img in 2014 and Endeavor joined forces with William Morris Agency in 2009, which forged the contemporary WME. It also reduces the competition among the mega agency playing field, with the Big Four of CAA, ICM, WME and UTA being reduced to the Big Three of CAA, WME and UTA.
CAA...
- 6/28/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Almost nine months to the day after the surprise Deadline scoop that CAA would acquire ICM Partners, the deal finally got government approval and closed. This creates a mega agency in the biggest linkup in the space since the Wma-Endeavor merger. Sources close to the situation said the Department of Justice finally approved the deal late last night or this morning, and it closed. It is valued around 750 million, and a combined enterprise value around 5 billion. The merged company’s leadership is expected to address staff at a town hall Thursday, with the newly combined departments set to begin their integration process with get-togethers on July 11, we hear.
First, though, comes the pain.
Around 105 positions will be eliminated, all from ICM, and coming from all areas. There will be 425 ICM agents and staffers from the agency joining CAA, meaning around 80 will be retained by CAA. These conversations will happen quickly.
First, though, comes the pain.
Around 105 positions will be eliminated, all from ICM, and coming from all areas. There will be 425 ICM agents and staffers from the agency joining CAA, meaning around 80 will be retained by CAA. These conversations will happen quickly.
- 6/28/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva and Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
In a surprise move last November, veteran studio chief and CAA co-founder Ron Meyer and former beIN Media Group executive Sophie Jordan were named CEO and co-ceo of European indie powerhouse Wild Bunch Ag. Together, the formidable leadership team will help steer the pan-European film, TV and media company into the next era of expansion.
It’s an interesting turn of events for Wild Bunch, which was originally founded by former StudioCanal executives in 1999 and spun off as a separate entity in 2002. It has consistently been at the forefront of the global indie film movement with strong ties to the Cannes Film Festival, having backed at least six Palme d’Or winners.
In 2015, it became a subsidiary of Germany’s Senator, which then rebranded as Wild Bunch Ag. In 2019, it formed a standalone sales division, Wild Bunch International, overseen by Wild Bunch co-founder Vincent Maraval, someone with whom the company...
It’s an interesting turn of events for Wild Bunch, which was originally founded by former StudioCanal executives in 1999 and spun off as a separate entity in 2002. It has consistently been at the forefront of the global indie film movement with strong ties to the Cannes Film Festival, having backed at least six Palme d’Or winners.
In 2015, it became a subsidiary of Germany’s Senator, which then rebranded as Wild Bunch Ag. In 2019, it formed a standalone sales division, Wild Bunch International, overseen by Wild Bunch co-founder Vincent Maraval, someone with whom the company...
- 5/26/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
From a cramped hotel suite in a luxury Cannes hotel, a pair of film executives are trying to pull off an unlikely feat: Sell distribution rights to Kevin Spacey’s comeback film. On May 17, Vantage Media International, or Vmi, a Hollywood-based company that sells movies primarily to foreign markets, screened a finished print of the noir drama Peter Five Eight to would-be buyers willing to take a gamble on the two-time Oscar winner’s first leading role since his career came to a grinding halt in 2017 amid accusations of sexual misconduct.
- 5/25/2022
- by Tatiana Siegel
- Rollingstone.com
Experienced marketing and distribution veteran has been previously worked at Warner Bros, Gaumont and Pathé.
Damien Golla has been appointed head of French theatrical distribution at the Wild Bunch group.
He replaces Jérôme Rougier, who held the position from 2017.
Prior to joining Wild Bunch, Golla was vice president marketing new releases at Warner Bros Entertainment France from 2019, and before that, marketing director of the distribution division at Gaumont from 2016 to 2019.
He began his career in the film industry at Pathé Films as part of the marketing team from 2004 to 2010, and then at Twentieth Century Fox as senior marketing...
Damien Golla has been appointed head of French theatrical distribution at the Wild Bunch group.
He replaces Jérôme Rougier, who held the position from 2017.
Prior to joining Wild Bunch, Golla was vice president marketing new releases at Warner Bros Entertainment France from 2019, and before that, marketing director of the distribution division at Gaumont from 2016 to 2019.
He began his career in the film industry at Pathé Films as part of the marketing team from 2004 to 2010, and then at Twentieth Century Fox as senior marketing...
- 2/14/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- ScreenDaily
I have always been a sucker for comeback stories, especially at a time like this when careers veer dramatically between triumph and cancellation – though some comebacks may raise questions (see below).
In the world of corporate suits, I admired Alan Horn’s remarkable comeback at Disney after Warners abruptly declared him excess baggage. Or Ron Meyer emerging as the boss of Wild Bunch after Universal cut him loose. Or even Paramount levitating Brian Robbins to studio chief after his Eddie Murphy movie bombed (Eddie cast as a literary agent in A Thousand Words!).
At another level, I was impressed by Bill Tennant’s fortitude in reinventing himself as a highflying talent manager after plunging into drug addiction and homelessness – becoming a role model for the similarly afflicted.
On the talent side, the Tom Cruise legend was famously crunched when he was “fired” by Paramount and Valkyrie bombed, only to be...
In the world of corporate suits, I admired Alan Horn’s remarkable comeback at Disney after Warners abruptly declared him excess baggage. Or Ron Meyer emerging as the boss of Wild Bunch after Universal cut him loose. Or even Paramount levitating Brian Robbins to studio chief after his Eddie Murphy movie bombed (Eddie cast as a literary agent in A Thousand Words!).
At another level, I was impressed by Bill Tennant’s fortitude in reinventing himself as a highflying talent manager after plunging into drug addiction and homelessness – becoming a role model for the similarly afflicted.
On the talent side, the Tom Cruise legend was famously crunched when he was “fired” by Paramount and Valkyrie bombed, only to be...
- 1/6/2022
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
Ron Meyer, a legendary dealmaker and operator whose decades-long tenure leading NBCUniversal ended in scandal, has found a new gig. The CAA co-founder and former NBCUniversal vice-chairman has been named CEO of Wild Bunch Ag, a European production, sales and distribution company that has been involved with award-winning films such as “The King’s Speech,” “Shoplifters” and “Titane.” Tennor Group has a controlling stake in the company and helped orchestrate Wild Bunch’s 2018 restructuring.
Meyer was forced to resign at NBCUniversal in 2020 after he admitted to an affair with an unnamed woman and said he was being extorted. It was later revealed that Meyer had an affair with Charlotte Kirk, an actress whose affair with former Warner Bros. CEO Kevin Tsujihara led to his ousting in 2019, amid claims that the studio executive had used his influence to try to get her roles — allegations he denied.
Meyer has remained busy even after losing his perch at NBCUniversal,...
Meyer was forced to resign at NBCUniversal in 2020 after he admitted to an affair with an unnamed woman and said he was being extorted. It was later revealed that Meyer had an affair with Charlotte Kirk, an actress whose affair with former Warner Bros. CEO Kevin Tsujihara led to his ousting in 2019, amid claims that the studio executive had used his influence to try to get her roles — allegations he denied.
Meyer has remained busy even after losing his perch at NBCUniversal,...
- 11/15/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Tennor Group, the diversified global investment house, has appointed Ron Meyer and Sophie Jordan to be CEO and Co-CEO of the indie film distribution and production services company Wild Bunch Ag. Wild Bunch CEO Vincent Grimond will stay on in an advisory capacity and work closely with Meyer and Jordan, the company said.
It becomes the latest stop for Meyer, the former Vice Chairman of NBCUniversal and CAA co-founder who most recently served in a consultant capacity with Qatar, proving guidance to its Doha Film Institute on motion picture investments.
Jordan is the former General Counsel and Special Advisor to the Chairman at beIN Media Group. Together they will help steer Wild Bunch, the pan-European company known for award-winning films and a growing distribution network, into the next era of expansion. The duo will utilize additional financial resources on strategic acquisitions of other businesses to help Wild Bunch expand its...
It becomes the latest stop for Meyer, the former Vice Chairman of NBCUniversal and CAA co-founder who most recently served in a consultant capacity with Qatar, proving guidance to its Doha Film Institute on motion picture investments.
Jordan is the former General Counsel and Special Advisor to the Chairman at beIN Media Group. Together they will help steer Wild Bunch, the pan-European company known for award-winning films and a growing distribution network, into the next era of expansion. The duo will utilize additional financial resources on strategic acquisitions of other businesses to help Wild Bunch expand its...
- 11/15/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Former CAA co-founder and NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer is joining the European film and TV production and distribution firm Wild Bunch Ag as CEO.
While Meyer has pursued some international business since parting ways with NBCUniversal last year, the Wild Bunch job is his first executive role since leaving the entertainment giant.
Meyer left the company under somewhat scandalous terms, when he disclosed an affair with the actress Charlotte Kirk. NBCUniversal and Meyer ultimately came to a settlement agreement related to his departure last month.
Wild Bunch, which is controlled by The Tennor Group, has produced or distributed films like The King’s Speech, The Father, Sin City and March ...
While Meyer has pursued some international business since parting ways with NBCUniversal last year, the Wild Bunch job is his first executive role since leaving the entertainment giant.
Meyer left the company under somewhat scandalous terms, when he disclosed an affair with the actress Charlotte Kirk. NBCUniversal and Meyer ultimately came to a settlement agreement related to his departure last month.
Wild Bunch, which is controlled by The Tennor Group, has produced or distributed films like The King’s Speech, The Father, Sin City and March ...
- 11/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Former CAA co-founder and NBCUniversal vice chairman Ron Meyer is joining the European film and TV production and distribution firm Wild Bunch Ag as CEO.
While Meyer has pursued some international business since parting ways with NBCUniversal last year, the Wild Bunch job is his first executive role since leaving the entertainment giant.
Meyer left the company under somewhat scandalous terms, when he disclosed an affair with the actress Charlotte Kirk. NBCUniversal and Meyer ultimately came to a settlement agreement related to his departure last month.
Wild Bunch, which is controlled by The Tennor Group, has produced or distributed films like The King’s Speech, The Father, Sin City and March ...
While Meyer has pursued some international business since parting ways with NBCUniversal last year, the Wild Bunch job is his first executive role since leaving the entertainment giant.
Meyer left the company under somewhat scandalous terms, when he disclosed an affair with the actress Charlotte Kirk. NBCUniversal and Meyer ultimately came to a settlement agreement related to his departure last month.
Wild Bunch, which is controlled by The Tennor Group, has produced or distributed films like The King’s Speech, The Father, Sin City and March ...
- 11/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It is truly the end of another era at Walt Disney Studios. In a move that many were expecting, Alan Horn, 78, is retiring as Chief Creative Officer of Disney Studios Content, effective Dec. 31 after a nine-year run at the Burbank, CA lot in an executive TV and motion picture industry career that has spanned close to 50 years.
Back in December, Alan Bergman was named Disney Studios Content Chairman; after co-running the division with Horn as a Co-Chairman since May 2019, as the media conglom made a commitment to spend $14 billion to $16 billion over the next four years. Horn remained on as Chief Creative Officer at the time, shedding some of his duties to zero on the studio’s creative pipeline.
Horn, similar to former NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer, was renowned for his relationships with filmmaking talent and smoothing feature productions out. He is known for his gracious and astute approach to film production situations.
Back in December, Alan Bergman was named Disney Studios Content Chairman; after co-running the division with Horn as a Co-Chairman since May 2019, as the media conglom made a commitment to spend $14 billion to $16 billion over the next four years. Horn remained on as Chief Creative Officer at the time, shedding some of his duties to zero on the studio’s creative pipeline.
Horn, similar to former NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer, was renowned for his relationships with filmmaking talent and smoothing feature productions out. He is known for his gracious and astute approach to film production situations.
- 10/11/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Former studio executive Ron Meyer and NBCUniversal have reached a confidential settlement following his 2020 exit amid a sex scandal, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Meyer was ousted from his post as NBCUniversal vice chairman after he disclosed a 2012 affair with actress Charlotte Kirk to CEO Jeff Shell.
In a statement announcing his August 2020 departure, the embattled executive said, “I made this disclosure because other parties learned of the settlement and have continuously attempted to extort me into paying them money or else they intended to falsely implicate NBCUniversal, which had nothing to do with this matter, and to publish false ...
Meyer was ousted from his post as NBCUniversal vice chairman after he disclosed a 2012 affair with actress Charlotte Kirk to CEO Jeff Shell.
In a statement announcing his August 2020 departure, the embattled executive said, “I made this disclosure because other parties learned of the settlement and have continuously attempted to extort me into paying them money or else they intended to falsely implicate NBCUniversal, which had nothing to do with this matter, and to publish false ...
- 10/7/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Exclusive updated with NBCU response and clarification: More than a year after Ron Meyer suddenly was shown the door at NBCUniversal over an affair, a payout by him and alleged extortion attempt against him, the former vice chairman of the Comcast-owned company has received a payout of his own.
In a deal negotiated by Hollywood heavyweight attorney Patricia Glaser, Meyer has landed a settlement in the realm of $20 million, we hear. Months in the making, the confidential agreement came together in late September, with all the parties signing off on the specifics. In a larger sense, there were millions more paid to Meyer over the past year such as his final salary, pension and some stock.
Contacted by Deadline this morning, the Glaser Weil litigator said, “We are prohibited from commenting because of a confidentiality clause.” NBCUniversal declined to comment on the matter or the settlement.
Of course, as...
In a deal negotiated by Hollywood heavyweight attorney Patricia Glaser, Meyer has landed a settlement in the realm of $20 million, we hear. Months in the making, the confidential agreement came together in late September, with all the parties signing off on the specifics. In a larger sense, there were millions more paid to Meyer over the past year such as his final salary, pension and some stock.
Contacted by Deadline this morning, the Glaser Weil litigator said, “We are prohibited from commenting because of a confidentiality clause.” NBCUniversal declined to comment on the matter or the settlement.
Of course, as...
- 10/6/2021
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
At first glance, Brian Robbins doesn’t seem like the typical Hollywood movie mogul. But he might just have the qualities and experience the modern role of film impresario demands.
ViacomCBS’ decision to elevate Robbins, an entrepreneur who is as well-versed in the language of social media as he is in backlot politics, to the head of its Paramount unit is a new sign of the generational shift taking place across the entertainment landscape. It comes as traditional media companies turn to a new lineup of executives to help them make sense of the streaming revolution that has upended their businesses. Simply put, many of the most venerable Hollywood players are desperate to get younger and more digitally savvy as they struggle to compete in a new world order. Robbins is set to replace Jim Gianopulos, who has held top roles at 20th Century Fox as well as Paramount.
“It...
ViacomCBS’ decision to elevate Robbins, an entrepreneur who is as well-versed in the language of social media as he is in backlot politics, to the head of its Paramount unit is a new sign of the generational shift taking place across the entertainment landscape. It comes as traditional media companies turn to a new lineup of executives to help them make sense of the streaming revolution that has upended their businesses. Simply put, many of the most venerable Hollywood players are desperate to get younger and more digitally savvy as they struggle to compete in a new world order. Robbins is set to replace Jim Gianopulos, who has held top roles at 20th Century Fox as well as Paramount.
“It...
- 9/10/2021
- by Brent Lang and Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
With an assist from Iac chairman Barry Diller, former Universal vice chairman Ron Meyer has reached an agreement to serve as a consultant representing Qatar in the film business.
Meyer will serve as an adviser to the Doha Film Institute. The precise scope of his mission is not clear but sources say he will offer counsel on investment in content as well as potentially building stages to attract production.
Qatar’s aim to become a bigger investment player in Hollywood is said to be a major foray spearheaded by Hassan Al-Thawadi, the architect behind the country’s 2022 FIFA World Cup event.
Industry ...
Meyer will serve as an adviser to the Doha Film Institute. The precise scope of his mission is not clear but sources say he will offer counsel on investment in content as well as potentially building stages to attract production.
Qatar’s aim to become a bigger investment player in Hollywood is said to be a major foray spearheaded by Hassan Al-Thawadi, the architect behind the country’s 2022 FIFA World Cup event.
Industry ...
With an assist from Iac chairman Barry Diller, former Universal vice chairman Ron Meyer has reached an agreement to serve as a consultant representing Qatar in the film business.
Meyer will serve as an adviser to the Doha Film Institute. The precise scope of his mission is not clear but sources say he will offer counsel on investment in content as well as potentially building stages to attract production.
Qatar’s aim to become a bigger investment player in Hollywood is said to be a major foray spearheaded by Hassan Al-Thawadi, the architect behind the country’s 2022 FIFA World Cup event.
Industry ...
Meyer will serve as an adviser to the Doha Film Institute. The precise scope of his mission is not clear but sources say he will offer counsel on investment in content as well as potentially building stages to attract production.
Qatar’s aim to become a bigger investment player in Hollywood is said to be a major foray spearheaded by Hassan Al-Thawadi, the architect behind the country’s 2022 FIFA World Cup event.
Industry ...
I was covering the red carpet for a tribute to Mike Nichols years ago when Cher arrived. She took some photos but strolled by reporters hoping — to no avail — for an interview.
Feeling courageous — or maybe more desperate — I yelled out as loud as I could, “Cher!” She turned around. When our eyes met, I screamed, “I’m gay.”
Cher smiled and came over to me. I got my interview.
I recalled that moment while talking with the music legend for the latest episode of the “Just for Variety” podcast. “You said the magic word,” she says, laughing. “And it worked. … It shows my commitment.”
Cher, whose son Chaz Bono is transgender, has been an LGBTQ icon for as long as she’s been Cher — actually from when she was a preteen and still known as Cherilyn Sarkisian. She was about 10 years old when her mom introduced her to a...
Feeling courageous — or maybe more desperate — I yelled out as loud as I could, “Cher!” She turned around. When our eyes met, I screamed, “I’m gay.”
Cher smiled and came over to me. I got my interview.
I recalled that moment while talking with the music legend for the latest episode of the “Just for Variety” podcast. “You said the magic word,” she says, laughing. “And it worked. … It shows my commitment.”
Cher, whose son Chaz Bono is transgender, has been an LGBTQ icon for as long as she’s been Cher — actually from when she was a preteen and still known as Cherilyn Sarkisian. She was about 10 years old when her mom introduced her to a...
- 6/23/2021
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
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