Creative Artists Agency has reintroduced managing directors, naming nine today, and announced a big expansion of its agency board as its leadership structure evolves.
Managing directors, a group reintroduced after years, include leaders across select areas, who will work alongside CAA Co-Chairman and CEO Bryan Lourd, Co-Chairmen Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett, and President Jim Burtson on a wide range of strategic business and operational matters.
Named Managing Directors are: Rob Light (music), Howard Nuchow (sports), Joe Cohen (TV), Michael Levine (sports) , Joel Lubin (motion picture), Maha Dakhil (motion picture), Chris Silbermann (TV), Tiffany Ward (TV), and Paul Danforth (sports). Of the nine, all but Silbermann come from the CAA side of the company.
CFO Carol Sawdye and Chief Legal Officer Hilary Krane continue to serve in their leadership roles.
CAA’s expanded Agency Board will now hone in on specific goals. It will work with the CAA Co-Chairmen and...
Managing directors, a group reintroduced after years, include leaders across select areas, who will work alongside CAA Co-Chairman and CEO Bryan Lourd, Co-Chairmen Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett, and President Jim Burtson on a wide range of strategic business and operational matters.
Named Managing Directors are: Rob Light (music), Howard Nuchow (sports), Joe Cohen (TV), Michael Levine (sports) , Joel Lubin (motion picture), Maha Dakhil (motion picture), Chris Silbermann (TV), Tiffany Ward (TV), and Paul Danforth (sports). Of the nine, all but Silbermann come from the CAA side of the company.
CFO Carol Sawdye and Chief Legal Officer Hilary Krane continue to serve in their leadership roles.
CAA’s expanded Agency Board will now hone in on specific goals. It will work with the CAA Co-Chairmen and...
- 4/11/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Creative Artists Agency has appointed nine managing directors and changed up its agency board membership.
The new managing directors include Rob Light, Howard Nuchow, Joe Cohen, Michael Levine, Joel Lubin, Maha Dakhil, Chris Silbermann, Tiffany Ward and Paul Danforth. CFO Carol Sawdye and chief legal officer Hilary Krane will continue in their roles.
The managing directors will work alongside CAA co-chairman and CEO Bryan Lourd, co-chairmen Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett and president Jim Burtson on varying strategic business and operational matters.
The agency board will work with the CAA co-chairmen and president “on ensuring the continued strength of the company’s highly regarded culture of service, collaboration, and opportunity, built for personal client service,” including dealmaking, training and development and innovation. The move marks the latest rework for the agency since its sale to Artémis, the investment firm controlled by François-Henri Pinault, last September.
Members of the agency board include Katie Anderson,...
The new managing directors include Rob Light, Howard Nuchow, Joe Cohen, Michael Levine, Joel Lubin, Maha Dakhil, Chris Silbermann, Tiffany Ward and Paul Danforth. CFO Carol Sawdye and chief legal officer Hilary Krane will continue in their roles.
The managing directors will work alongside CAA co-chairman and CEO Bryan Lourd, co-chairmen Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett and president Jim Burtson on varying strategic business and operational matters.
The agency board will work with the CAA co-chairmen and president “on ensuring the continued strength of the company’s highly regarded culture of service, collaboration, and opportunity, built for personal client service,” including dealmaking, training and development and innovation. The move marks the latest rework for the agency since its sale to Artémis, the investment firm controlled by François-Henri Pinault, last September.
Members of the agency board include Katie Anderson,...
- 4/11/2024
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The invitation read “dress code: Fashion,” and guests at the second annual Fashion Trust U.S. Awards didn’t disappoint – with Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Jessica Biel, Andra Day, Awkwafina, Heidi Klum, Janelle Monaé and Kelsea Ballerini showing up in head-turning looks.
“Get ready for a wild night,” host Zooey Deschanel improvised, as she waited for the starry crowd to take their seats inside the tented dinner held in the backyard of a sprawling Beverly Hills estate on Tuesday. The actress kept things moving with a series of lighthearted jokes between awards. “It’s clear the world needs fashion more than ever because without fashion, all the problems of the world would still exist but everyone would be naked and naked is boring.”
The evening was anything but that thanks, in part, to a surprise appearance from Macy Gray, who sang a four-song set. The performance brought the crowd to their...
“Get ready for a wild night,” host Zooey Deschanel improvised, as she waited for the starry crowd to take their seats inside the tented dinner held in the backyard of a sprawling Beverly Hills estate on Tuesday. The actress kept things moving with a series of lighthearted jokes between awards. “It’s clear the world needs fashion more than ever because without fashion, all the problems of the world would still exist but everyone would be naked and naked is boring.”
The evening was anything but that thanks, in part, to a surprise appearance from Macy Gray, who sang a four-song set. The performance brought the crowd to their...
- 4/10/2024
- by Lindzi Scharf
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was another high point in a career that was filling up with them. Melissa Barrera was in Dublin, finally back on set after a long actors strike and working on the horror feature Abigail, which reunited her with friends and frequent collaborators Radio Silence. The directing duo of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett brought Barrera to new levels of fame when they tapped her to lead the 2022 franchise reviver Scream, and she was looking forward to playing her role as Sam Carpenter for a third time down the road, with Freaky helmer Christopher Landon attached to direct. But then she got the call that would come to dominate the next few months of her life and make her the subject of intense scrutiny.
Spyglass, the production company behind Scream, was firing her from the franchise over social media posts she’d shared to Instagram Stories after Hamas’ Oct. 7 unprovoked...
Spyglass, the production company behind Scream, was firing her from the franchise over social media posts she’d shared to Instagram Stories after Hamas’ Oct. 7 unprovoked...
- 3/28/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On Oscar night, details matter. Who are you wearing? What are you nominated for? Who won? Just don’t expect everyone to know the answers.
“What movie won?” Rick Hilton asked as he and wife Kathy Hilton assumed position at the end of a glamorous queue to get into Vanity Fair’s 30th anniversary Oscar party in Beverly Hills on Sunday after 10 p.m. They asked their son, Kathy says, but no clue. Fortunately, a gentleman standing directly in front of the couple had the answer. “It was Oppenheimer,” he said, not mentioning the awkwardness of Al Pacino’s best picture reveal. Some details can be saved for Monday morning. Plus, there are more rapid-fire questions to field.
What movie is that? Is it based on a true story? Who was the emcee?
“Oh, Jimmy Kimmel. I like him,” Rick said, smiling, in a totally relatable moment because who doesn’t love Jimmy Kimmel?...
“What movie won?” Rick Hilton asked as he and wife Kathy Hilton assumed position at the end of a glamorous queue to get into Vanity Fair’s 30th anniversary Oscar party in Beverly Hills on Sunday after 10 p.m. They asked their son, Kathy says, but no clue. Fortunately, a gentleman standing directly in front of the couple had the answer. “It was Oppenheimer,” he said, not mentioning the awkwardness of Al Pacino’s best picture reveal. Some details can be saved for Monday morning. Plus, there are more rapid-fire questions to field.
What movie is that? Is it based on a true story? Who was the emcee?
“Oh, Jimmy Kimmel. I like him,” Rick said, smiling, in a totally relatable moment because who doesn’t love Jimmy Kimmel?...
- 3/12/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef, dubbed the “Jon Stewart of the Middle East,” said this week that he believes he lost a role in James Gunn’s and DC Studios’ “Superman: Legacy” for criticizing the Israeli government. But a source close to the production tells IndieWire that Youssef was never formally offered the role, and the character in question was cut from the script prior to his initial comments criticizing Israel. Gunn, who is prepping “Superman: Legacy” in Atlanta, agreed with the source’s version of events on Twitter/X.
Back in October, Youssef went viral for remarks he made during an interview with Piers Morgan.
“They said Israel is the only military force in the world that warns civilians before bombing them,” Youssef said. “How fucking cute! That is so nice of them because with this logic, if Russian troops started warning Ukrainians before bombing their houses, we’re cool with Putin,...
Back in October, Youssef went viral for remarks he made during an interview with Piers Morgan.
“They said Israel is the only military force in the world that warns civilians before bombing them,” Youssef said. “How fucking cute! That is so nice of them because with this logic, if Russian troops started warning Ukrainians before bombing their houses, we’re cool with Putin,...
- 2/16/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Melissa Barrera is once again under fire over a series of new social media posts involving the Israeli-Gaza conflict, prompting her representatives at WME and Sugar23 to explore dropping the actress as a client.
The “In the Heights” and “Scream” star earlier this week posted a link in her Instagram bio that directed her followers to donate money to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East to benefit “all the martyrs in Gaza and the West Bank.” The plea was deemed particularly incendiary given that Barrera posted the link one day after the Biden administration and several other countries halted aid to the organization in the wake of explosive allegations that 12 Unrwa staffers directly participated in the Oct. 7 terror attacks in Israel, including two who took part in kidnappings. Ten percent of the agency’s Gaza staff allegedly have ties to Hamas and...
The “In the Heights” and “Scream” star earlier this week posted a link in her Instagram bio that directed her followers to donate money to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East to benefit “all the martyrs in Gaza and the West Bank.” The plea was deemed particularly incendiary given that Barrera posted the link one day after the Biden administration and several other countries halted aid to the organization in the wake of explosive allegations that 12 Unrwa staffers directly participated in the Oct. 7 terror attacks in Israel, including two who took part in kidnappings. Ten percent of the agency’s Gaza staff allegedly have ties to Hamas and...
- 2/2/2024
- by Tatiana Siegel
- Variety Film + TV
Last February, David Zaslav made his way to CAA’s offices, accompanied by his film-studio chiefs, Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy. The delegation gathered in agent Maha Dakhil’s office, where Kevin Huvane and Joel Lubin were in attendance. Also there was a prized client: Tom Cruise.
The meeting was the product of a call that De Luca and Abdy had made to Dakhil. They asked Dakhil to pass along a message of thanks to Cruise for working so hard to save theaters. The star was then still in the process of pulling the seventh Mission: Impossible movie together, which he had dragged against heavy odds through the pandemic. Meanwhile, Top Gun: Maverick had restored faith in the viability of movie theaters. Cruise would later promote Barbenheimer, a rare move for an actor who had nothing to do with either film.
The CAA meeting went on for two hours.
The meeting was the product of a call that De Luca and Abdy had made to Dakhil. They asked Dakhil to pass along a message of thanks to Cruise for working so hard to save theaters. The star was then still in the process of pulling the seventh Mission: Impossible movie together, which he had dragged against heavy odds through the pandemic. Meanwhile, Top Gun: Maverick had restored faith in the viability of movie theaters. Cruise would later promote Barbenheimer, a rare move for an actor who had nothing to do with either film.
The CAA meeting went on for two hours.
- 1/11/2024
- by Kim Masters
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Susan Sarandon issued an apology for controversial comments she made at a pro-Palestine rally in New York last month.
At the Nov. 17 rally, the actor had said, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.” UTA subsequently dropped Sarandon as a client over the remarks.
In a post on Instagram late Friday, Sarandon wrote that “It was my intent to show solidarity in the struggle against bigotry of all kinds, and I am sorry I failed to do so.”
“Recently, I attended a rally alongside a diverse group of activists seeking to highlight the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for a ceasefire,” Sarandon wrote. “I had not planned to speak but was invited to take the...
At the Nov. 17 rally, the actor had said, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.” UTA subsequently dropped Sarandon as a client over the remarks.
In a post on Instagram late Friday, Sarandon wrote that “It was my intent to show solidarity in the struggle against bigotry of all kinds, and I am sorry I failed to do so.”
“Recently, I attended a rally alongside a diverse group of activists seeking to highlight the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for a ceasefire,” Sarandon wrote. “I had not planned to speak but was invited to take the...
- 12/2/2023
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Longtime CAA film agent Risa Gertner is set to retire in January after nearly 30 years with the agency.
Gertner’s list of clients over the years has included such writers, directors and producers as Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard and Simon Kinberg. At present she serves on the CAA board and as served as co-head of the agency’s motion picture group for the past 20 years.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades,” Gertner said. “And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift.”
Richard Lovett, CAA co-chairman, praised Gertner as having served for years as a “guiding force” for the agency. She has helped grow the agency’s film bench, serving as a mentor to such notable agents as Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow and Ida Ziniti.
Gertner’s list of clients over the years has included such writers, directors and producers as Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard and Simon Kinberg. At present she serves on the CAA board and as served as co-head of the agency’s motion picture group for the past 20 years.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades,” Gertner said. “And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift.”
Richard Lovett, CAA co-chairman, praised Gertner as having served for years as a “guiding force” for the agency. She has helped grow the agency’s film bench, serving as a mentor to such notable agents as Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow and Ida Ziniti.
- 11/29/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Longtime Creative Artists Agency motion picture agent Risa Gertner is set to retire, the firm announced Wednesday.
After around 27 years at CAA, she will depart the talent agency after it acquired a new majority owner in Jan. 2024. Gertner’s A-list talent roster includes Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard and Simon Kinberg.
During her tenure at CAA as a power agent, she has been an internal board member and co-head for 20 years of the Motion Picture Group. Gertner first joined CAA in 1996, representing, among others, Seth MacFarlane, Alex Kurtzman, Susannah Grant and J.C. Chandor.
She also hired many Motion Picture Literary Department’s agents, including Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow and Ida Ziniti.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades. And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift,...
After around 27 years at CAA, she will depart the talent agency after it acquired a new majority owner in Jan. 2024. Gertner’s A-list talent roster includes Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard and Simon Kinberg.
During her tenure at CAA as a power agent, she has been an internal board member and co-head for 20 years of the Motion Picture Group. Gertner first joined CAA in 1996, representing, among others, Seth MacFarlane, Alex Kurtzman, Susannah Grant and J.C. Chandor.
She also hired many Motion Picture Literary Department’s agents, including Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow and Ida Ziniti.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades. And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift,...
- 11/29/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Risa Gertner, for decades a top rep of writers and directors at Creative Artists Agency, has turned in her retirement papers. She spent 27 years in the CAA motion picture department, and will depart the agency in January.
Among the careers Gertner has helped build include Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard, Simon Kinberg and many others. She has been a member of the CAA Board and co-head for 20 years of its Motion Picture Group. Gertner also hired many of the Motion Picture Literary Department’s agents, including a coterie of CAA star dealmakers including Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow, and Ida Ziniti.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades,” Gertner said. “And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift.”
Said CAA Co-Chairman Richard Lovett...
Among the careers Gertner has helped build include Tony Gilroy, Barry Jenkins, Kenya Barris, Ron Howard, Simon Kinberg and many others. She has been a member of the CAA Board and co-head for 20 years of its Motion Picture Group. Gertner also hired many of the Motion Picture Literary Department’s agents, including a coterie of CAA star dealmakers including Maha Dakhil, Todd Feldman, Joel Lubin, Dan Rabinow, and Ida Ziniti.
“I am profoundly grateful to have worked with artists whose brilliance and creativity has shaped popular culture for decades,” Gertner said. “And to have done so surrounded by the most inspired and passionate colleagues has been a gift.”
Said CAA Co-Chairman Richard Lovett...
- 11/29/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Jews are not a monolith. And yet, for the past several decades, those in favor of Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration have mendaciously branded any criticisms of the Israeli government as antisemitism. It is a curious conflation, given how a 2021 Pew Research Center survey revealed that only 58% of Jewish adults in the U.S. “feel very/somewhat attached to Israel.” In that same survey, 33% said “the Israeli government is making sincere effort toward peace.” And in March of this year, a Gallup poll stated that “for the first time in its...
- 11/26/2023
- by Marlow Stern
- Rollingstone.com
Susan Sarandon dropped by UTA, Melissa Barrera fired from upcoming ‘Scream VII’.
The firing and dropping of two celebrity actors on Tuesday over statements related to the Israel-Hamas conflict have brought into sharper focus the challenges Hollywood faces over one of the most divisive geopolitical issues in years.
Susan Sarandon has been dropped by her agency UTA after statements allegedly made at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York last weekend.
Video footage on TikTok posted one day ago shows the activist and star of Thelma & Louise and Dead Man Walking telling a crowd, “Hold Palestine in your heart, pray for the people of Palestine…...
The firing and dropping of two celebrity actors on Tuesday over statements related to the Israel-Hamas conflict have brought into sharper focus the challenges Hollywood faces over one of the most divisive geopolitical issues in years.
Susan Sarandon has been dropped by her agency UTA after statements allegedly made at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York last weekend.
Video footage on TikTok posted one day ago shows the activist and star of Thelma & Louise and Dead Man Walking telling a crowd, “Hold Palestine in your heart, pray for the people of Palestine…...
- 11/21/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Four days after the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attacks in Israel, WME invited Steve Leder, the rabbi from Wilshire Boulevard Temple, to visit the agency’s Beverly Hills headquarters. He came to provide comfort for employees reeling after the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Although the event was not mandatory and Leder’s speech was considered secular, several staffers voiced complaints, which made their way to WME co-chairmen Richard Weitz and Christian Muirhead. Instead of caving, WME invited Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt to speak to the agency on Nov. 1. Greenblatt didn’t mince words, according to those in attendance, calling out the Writers Guild of America for refusing to issue a statement after the Hamas attacks.
Across town, the agency’s fiercest rival, CAA, was dealing with a crisis. Maha Dakhil, one of its top agents, had ignited a firestorm with her Instagram posts, including one that said,...
Across town, the agency’s fiercest rival, CAA, was dealing with a crisis. Maha Dakhil, one of its top agents, had ignited a firestorm with her Instagram posts, including one that said,...
- 11/21/2023
- by Tatiana Siegel
- Variety Film + TV
Susan Sarandon has been dropped by United Talent Agency, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
A talent agency spokesperson said UTA is no longer representing the Oscar winner. The parting of ways follows controversial remarks made at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City’s Union Square on Nov. 17. “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence,” Sarandon told the rally, as she pointed to American Jews fearful over rising antisemitism.
Long known as an outspoken advocate for progressive causes, Sarandon waded into the Israel-Hamas conflict having been a client of UTA since 2014. Before that, Sarandon was with then ICM Partners for 25 years.
Other controversial remarks in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict have rocked the Hollywood agency world elsewhere. CAA co-chief of the motion pictures department Maha Dakhil,...
A talent agency spokesperson said UTA is no longer representing the Oscar winner. The parting of ways follows controversial remarks made at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City’s Union Square on Nov. 17. “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence,” Sarandon told the rally, as she pointed to American Jews fearful over rising antisemitism.
Long known as an outspoken advocate for progressive causes, Sarandon waded into the Israel-Hamas conflict having been a client of UTA since 2014. Before that, Sarandon was with then ICM Partners for 25 years.
Other controversial remarks in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict have rocked the Hollywood agency world elsewhere. CAA co-chief of the motion pictures department Maha Dakhil,...
- 11/21/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Actress Susan Sarandon is no longer represented by United Talent Agency following her comments amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war at a pro-Palestine rally.
Deadline first reported that Sarandon was dropped by agency UTA after making remarks at a pro-Palestine march in New York City. Sarandon is quoted as saying, “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.”
The Oscar winner has shared pro-Palestinian remarks on social media, including from Pink Floyd rocker Roger Waters, who has been previously criticized for antisemitic remarks.
A UTA representative confirmed to IndieWire that Sarandon is no longer a client.
This news comes not long after former CAA agent Maha Dakhil resigned from the company board as co-head of the motion pictures department in October 2023 after making...
Deadline first reported that Sarandon was dropped by agency UTA after making remarks at a pro-Palestine march in New York City. Sarandon is quoted as saying, “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.”
The Oscar winner has shared pro-Palestinian remarks on social media, including from Pink Floyd rocker Roger Waters, who has been previously criticized for antisemitic remarks.
A UTA representative confirmed to IndieWire that Sarandon is no longer a client.
This news comes not long after former CAA agent Maha Dakhil resigned from the company board as co-head of the motion pictures department in October 2023 after making...
- 11/21/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Susan Sarandon has been dropped by UTA after she made controversial comments at a pro-Palestine rally in New York on Nov. 17, Variety has confirmed.
Sarandon said at the rally, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.” She told protesters to have conversations with Jewish Americans, who don’t feel safe amid the rise of antisemitism in the country.
Muslim American journalist Asra Nomani responded to Sarandon’s comments in a lengthy post on X, writing “Please don’t minimize the experience of Jewish Americans by sanitizing the hell that it is for Muslims living in Muslim countries and vilifying America for the life — and freedoms — she offers Muslims like my family. Go, live like a Muslim woman in a Muslim country.
Sarandon said at the rally, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.” She told protesters to have conversations with Jewish Americans, who don’t feel safe amid the rise of antisemitism in the country.
Muslim American journalist Asra Nomani responded to Sarandon’s comments in a lengthy post on X, writing “Please don’t minimize the experience of Jewish Americans by sanitizing the hell that it is for Muslims living in Muslim countries and vilifying America for the life — and freedoms — she offers Muslims like my family. Go, live like a Muslim woman in a Muslim country.
- 11/21/2023
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: After making controversial remarks at a recent pro-Palestinian rally in New York City, Susan Sarandon has been dropped by UTA as a client, a spokesman from the agency confirmed.
The Dead Man Walking Oscar winner has been present at several pro-Palestinian rallies where she made several remarks that included, “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country.” She also went on to repost on X a pro-Palestinian post from Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, who has been criticized over the years for his antisemitic remarks.
Sarandon being dropped from UTA is another instance in recent weeks of talent agencies making tough decisions when it comes to clients or agents making public statements on the war in Israel. Last month, CAA Co-Head Of Film, Maha Dakhil, resigned from...
The Dead Man Walking Oscar winner has been present at several pro-Palestinian rallies where she made several remarks that included, “There are a lot of people afraid of being Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country.” She also went on to repost on X a pro-Palestinian post from Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, who has been criticized over the years for his antisemitic remarks.
Sarandon being dropped from UTA is another instance in recent weeks of talent agencies making tough decisions when it comes to clients or agents making public statements on the war in Israel. Last month, CAA Co-Head Of Film, Maha Dakhil, resigned from...
- 11/21/2023
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
CAA has dropped a pair of female Bipoc entrepreneurs who’ve gained attention in recent years for holding “anti-racist” dinner parties for an affluent white women audience, according to one of the founders who says they offended their agent with their vocal support for Palestine following Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre and Israel’s subsequent invasion of Gaza.
On Nov. 13 Saira Rao told her followers on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter, that she and her business partner Regina Jackson were now without representation due to “our words denouncing genocide. This is McCarthyism on steroids and ethnic cleansing. We are disgusted but not shocked. #FreePalestine.”
CAA’s New York-based Ally Shuster had been their agent. The Century City-based major agency did not return a request for comment. Rao and Jackson’s speaking and book agents also didn’t respond to requests for comment.
Their organization, Race2Dinner, bills itself as hosting small dinners in which,...
On Nov. 13 Saira Rao told her followers on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter, that she and her business partner Regina Jackson were now without representation due to “our words denouncing genocide. This is McCarthyism on steroids and ethnic cleansing. We are disgusted but not shocked. #FreePalestine.”
CAA’s New York-based Ally Shuster had been their agent. The Century City-based major agency did not return a request for comment. Rao and Jackson’s speaking and book agents also didn’t respond to requests for comment.
Their organization, Race2Dinner, bills itself as hosting small dinners in which,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Gary Baum
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A top executive at one of Hollywood’s largest talent agencies weighed in at length on Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel and denounced a letter that sought to take issue with statements of condemnation that were publicized shortly after the massacre that killed more than 1,400 people.
Jay Sures, vice chairman at United Talent Agency and also a member of the University of California system’s Board of Regents, wrote a letter dated Oct. 31 in response to a group called The Uc Ethnic Studies Faculty Council. The executive, who was appointed to the Uc Board of Regents in 2019 and was promoted to vice chairman at UTA last year, wrote that “there are absolutely no words to describe how appalling and repugnant I found” the Ethnic Studies Faculty Council letter and added that it is “rife with falsehoods about Israel and seeks to legitimize and defend the horrific savagery of the Hamas massacre.
Jay Sures, vice chairman at United Talent Agency and also a member of the University of California system’s Board of Regents, wrote a letter dated Oct. 31 in response to a group called The Uc Ethnic Studies Faculty Council. The executive, who was appointed to the Uc Board of Regents in 2019 and was promoted to vice chairman at UTA last year, wrote that “there are absolutely no words to describe how appalling and repugnant I found” the Ethnic Studies Faculty Council letter and added that it is “rife with falsehoods about Israel and seeks to legitimize and defend the horrific savagery of the Hamas massacre.
- 10/31/2023
- by Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Last November, CAA held a town hall on antisemitism, part of a series hosted through CAA’s Amplify Presents program, described as “a network of changemakers” working toward “systemic change for communities of color.” The program was introduced by agent Maha Dakhil, who said it was “focused on fighting antisemitism and promoting allyship.” Next up was CAA co-chairman Richard Lovett. “This morning, we will learn once again how much words matter,” he said, “and the damage caused by human beings with large platforms who do not use their platforms responsibly.”
Twelve months later, Dakhil finds herself at the center of a firestorm ignited by her own use of a large platform: Instagram, where she had 27,000 followers before she locked her account and deleted her posts. In the wake of her comments on the Israel-Hamas War, Aaron Sorkin fired her. High-level Hollywood executives including Spyglass Media chairman and CEO Gary Barber,...
Twelve months later, Dakhil finds herself at the center of a firestorm ignited by her own use of a large platform: Instagram, where she had 27,000 followers before she locked her account and deleted her posts. In the wake of her comments on the Israel-Hamas War, Aaron Sorkin fired her. High-level Hollywood executives including Spyglass Media chairman and CEO Gary Barber,...
- 10/31/2023
- by Kim Masters
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
United Agents Head of Comedy Kitty Laing is stepping down from her role and as a member of the agency’s executive committee following a spate of reposts about the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Laing, who represents the likes of Jamie Demetriou, Katherine Ryan and Nick Mohammed, will continue working with her client roster along with the team at United.
“Following the statements made earlier this week, it has been agreed that Kitty Laing will step away from her leadership roles as Head of Comedy and as a member of the Executive Committee of United Agents, effective immediately,” said a spokesman for United Agents. “Kitty will continue to work with her clients and the team at United Agents.”
The news comes after United conducted a “full and thorough investigation” when Laing’s reposts emerged earlier this week, at which point Laing reactivated her deleted Twitter to post an apology, before subsequently deleting it again.
Laing, who represents the likes of Jamie Demetriou, Katherine Ryan and Nick Mohammed, will continue working with her client roster along with the team at United.
“Following the statements made earlier this week, it has been agreed that Kitty Laing will step away from her leadership roles as Head of Comedy and as a member of the Executive Committee of United Agents, effective immediately,” said a spokesman for United Agents. “Kitty will continue to work with her clients and the team at United Agents.”
The news comes after United conducted a “full and thorough investigation” when Laing’s reposts emerged earlier this week, at which point Laing reactivated her deleted Twitter to post an apology, before subsequently deleting it again.
- 10/26/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
CAA reminded its staff about its common sense social media policy.
The agency held an all-hands meeting this afternoon and one of the topics that came up related to agents and others posting on services and apps such as Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter.
The short of it? Use good judgement.
Social media has once again come into focus with the situation in Israel and Palestine. On one hand, it has been a useful tool to share information, but on the other some of that information is not always correct. Posting and commenting on social media, particularly in turbulent times, can also lead to harassment.
Sources at CAA told Deadline that today’s meeting was about reinforcing these points and making sure that agents and others represent themselves and the company well on the web. There was no PowerPoint presentation about the company’s social media policy, we were told.
The agency held an all-hands meeting this afternoon and one of the topics that came up related to agents and others posting on services and apps such as Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter.
The short of it? Use good judgement.
Social media has once again come into focus with the situation in Israel and Palestine. On one hand, it has been a useful tool to share information, but on the other some of that information is not always correct. Posting and commenting on social media, particularly in turbulent times, can also lead to harassment.
Sources at CAA told Deadline that today’s meeting was about reinforcing these points and making sure that agents and others represent themselves and the company well on the web. There was no PowerPoint presentation about the company’s social media policy, we were told.
- 10/26/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
“Maha isn’t an antisemite, she’s just wrong,” says Oscar winner.
The West Wing creator and Oscar-winning writer-director Aaron Sorkin has left CAA for WME in the wake of a senior CAA agent’s controversial social media posts about the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In what Hollywood sources said could be the first of several defections, Sorkin, who won the adapted screenplay Oscar for The Social Network and wrote Moneyball, reacted after CAA’s film department co-chief Maha Dakhil posted on Instagram last week.
Dakhil reposted a social media statement that said of Israel’s retaliatory attacks after the Hamas terror...
The West Wing creator and Oscar-winning writer-director Aaron Sorkin has left CAA for WME in the wake of a senior CAA agent’s controversial social media posts about the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In what Hollywood sources said could be the first of several defections, Sorkin, who won the adapted screenplay Oscar for The Social Network and wrote Moneyball, reacted after CAA’s film department co-chief Maha Dakhil posted on Instagram last week.
Dakhil reposted a social media statement that said of Israel’s retaliatory attacks after the Hamas terror...
- 10/25/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Aaron Sorkin has dropped CAA over controversial social media posts regarding Israel from agent Maha Dakhil, Variety has confirmed.
The “Social Network” and “West Wing” writer is returning to WME, which he had been previously repped by until his move to CAA in 2017.
“Maha isn’t an antisemite, she’s just wrong. She’s a great agent and I’m very proud of the work we did together over the last six years. I’m excited to be returning to WME,” Sorkin said in a statement.
Dakhil, who represents A-list talent such as Tom Cruise and Natalie Portman, resigned from CAA’s internal board on Sunday following the controversial comments she made on Israel, as well as stepped away from her leadership duties as co-head of the agency’s motion pictures department. She will continue to work with her clients and CAA colleagues while spending time in her personal education process.
The “Social Network” and “West Wing” writer is returning to WME, which he had been previously repped by until his move to CAA in 2017.
“Maha isn’t an antisemite, she’s just wrong. She’s a great agent and I’m very proud of the work we did together over the last six years. I’m excited to be returning to WME,” Sorkin said in a statement.
Dakhil, who represents A-list talent such as Tom Cruise and Natalie Portman, resigned from CAA’s internal board on Sunday following the controversial comments she made on Israel, as well as stepped away from her leadership duties as co-head of the agency’s motion pictures department. She will continue to work with her clients and CAA colleagues while spending time in her personal education process.
- 10/25/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Aaron Sorkin has dropped CAA and returned to WME over a post critical of Israel made by its co-chief of the motion pictures department, Maha Dakhil.
“Maha isn’t an antisemite, she’s just wrong. She’s a great agent, and I’m very proud of the work we did together over the last six years. I’m excited to be returning to WME,” the prolific scribe told The Hollywood Reporter. The writer behind The Social Network and The West Wing had been repped by WME until a 2017 move over to rival CAA.
Dakhil, whose A-list client roster includes Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman and Reese Witherspoon, came under scrutiny for an Instagram repost that referenced “genocide” on the part of Israel amid a war in Gaza. That post was later deleted and Dakhil apologized for the remarks.
As the repost reverberated in the industry, the agent stepped away from her...
“Maha isn’t an antisemite, she’s just wrong. She’s a great agent, and I’m very proud of the work we did together over the last six years. I’m excited to be returning to WME,” the prolific scribe told The Hollywood Reporter. The writer behind The Social Network and The West Wing had been repped by WME until a 2017 move over to rival CAA.
Dakhil, whose A-list client roster includes Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman and Reese Witherspoon, came under scrutiny for an Instagram repost that referenced “genocide” on the part of Israel amid a war in Gaza. That post was later deleted and Dakhil apologized for the remarks.
As the repost reverberated in the industry, the agent stepped away from her...
- 10/25/2023
- by Kim Masters and Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Kitty Laing, head of comedy at United Agents, is under investigation by the top U.K. talent agency after social media reposts and shares highly critical of Israel as that country fights a war with Hamas.
On Tuesday morning, United Agents said on its X account and in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter: “We have been made aware of social media posts by one of our senior agents this morning. These are not the views of United Agents Ltd. We are conducting a full and thorough investigation into this immediately.”
Laing represents comedy writers and actors and sketch comedy artists like Michelle Asante, Jamie Demetriou, Jack Brett Anderson, and Dan Harry and Ollie King. United Agents has clients working in film, TV, theater, radio and digital, as well as representing them in concert touring.
Laing’s reposts have been taken down and are no longer available for viewing on X.
On Tuesday morning, United Agents said on its X account and in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter: “We have been made aware of social media posts by one of our senior agents this morning. These are not the views of United Agents Ltd. We are conducting a full and thorough investigation into this immediately.”
Laing represents comedy writers and actors and sketch comedy artists like Michelle Asante, Jamie Demetriou, Jack Brett Anderson, and Dan Harry and Ollie King. United Agents has clients working in film, TV, theater, radio and digital, as well as representing them in concert touring.
Laing’s reposts have been taken down and are no longer available for viewing on X.
- 10/24/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
United Agents is “conducting a full and thorough investigation” into one of the most prominent British comedy agents after she was called out for a spate of reposts and shares regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Kitty Laing, who is United’s Head of Comedy and represents the likes of Jamie Demetriou, Katherine Ryan and Nick Mohammed, was the subject of an X thread this morning by Oscar-nominated Borat Subsequent Moviefilm writer Lee Kern.
United said it was “made aware of social media posts by one of our senior agents this morning” and is “conducting a full and thorough investigation into this immediately.” “These are not the views of United Agents,” it added. Laing has apologized in the past few minutes.
In this morning’s lengthy thread, Kern highlighted a string of Laing’s reposts including one calling for Jews in Israel to be referred to as “settler paramilitaries”, another that refers...
Kitty Laing, who is United’s Head of Comedy and represents the likes of Jamie Demetriou, Katherine Ryan and Nick Mohammed, was the subject of an X thread this morning by Oscar-nominated Borat Subsequent Moviefilm writer Lee Kern.
United said it was “made aware of social media posts by one of our senior agents this morning” and is “conducting a full and thorough investigation into this immediately.” “These are not the views of United Agents,” it added. Laing has apologized in the past few minutes.
In this morning’s lengthy thread, Kern highlighted a string of Laing’s reposts including one calling for Jews in Israel to be referred to as “settler paramilitaries”, another that refers...
- 10/24/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
CAA agent Maha Dakhil has resigned from the agency’s internal board after making controversial comments on social media regarding Israel. She is also is stepping away from her leadership duties as co-head of the motion pictures department, Variety has confirmed.
Dakhil, who represents A-list talent such as Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman and Madonna, will continue to work with her clients and CAA colleagues while spending time in her personal education process on the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
On Wednesday, Dakhil reposted a statement from an account labeled Free Palestine, which weighed in on Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 terror attack executed by Hamas. The post read, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide,” to which Dakhil added her own caption: “That’s the line for me.” She then posted a second photo captioned, “What’s more heartbreaking than witnessing genocide? Witnessing the denial that genocide is happening.
Dakhil, who represents A-list talent such as Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman and Madonna, will continue to work with her clients and CAA colleagues while spending time in her personal education process on the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
On Wednesday, Dakhil reposted a statement from an account labeled Free Palestine, which weighed in on Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 terror attack executed by Hamas. The post read, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide,” to which Dakhil added her own caption: “That’s the line for me.” She then posted a second photo captioned, “What’s more heartbreaking than witnessing genocide? Witnessing the denial that genocide is happening.
- 10/22/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
After apologizing for a social media post critical of Israel made amid the country’s war against Hamas, CAA’s co-chief of the motion pictures department Maha Dakhil is stepping away from her leadership role in the division for now. Additionally, she’s resigning from the Century City-based firm’s internal agency board.
Dakhil, whose clients include Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman, Reese Witherspoon and Anne Hathaway, came under scrutiny for an Instagram repost that referenced “genocide” as the war escalates. That post was later deleted and the agent apologized for the remarks.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language,” Dakhil wrote in an Oct. 19 statement. “Like so many of us, I have been reeling with heartbreak. I pride myself on being on the side of humanity and peace. I’m so grateful to Jewish friends and colleagues who pointed out the implications and further educated me.
Dakhil, whose clients include Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman, Reese Witherspoon and Anne Hathaway, came under scrutiny for an Instagram repost that referenced “genocide” as the war escalates. That post was later deleted and the agent apologized for the remarks.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language,” Dakhil wrote in an Oct. 19 statement. “Like so many of us, I have been reeling with heartbreak. I pride myself on being on the side of humanity and peace. I’m so grateful to Jewish friends and colleagues who pointed out the implications and further educated me.
- 10/22/2023
- by Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Maha Dakhil, who was Co-Head of Motion Pictures at CAA, has temporarily stepped away from day to day leadership and resigned from the agency’s internal board after her controversial comments on Israel’s response to the Hamas terror attacks.
Dakhil represents stars including Tom Cruise and Natalie Portman and the move comes after talks with the Bryan Lourd, Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett-led agency.
She will, however, continue working with clients.
CAA just sent out an internal note with the changes.
It comes after she reposted an Instagram story earlier this week that said, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide”.
Dakhil, who also represents the likes of Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon and Olivia Wilde, subsequently apologized in a statement and admitted that she made a “mistake”.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language. Like so many of us, I have been reeling with heartbreak.
Dakhil represents stars including Tom Cruise and Natalie Portman and the move comes after talks with the Bryan Lourd, Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett-led agency.
She will, however, continue working with clients.
CAA just sent out an internal note with the changes.
It comes after she reposted an Instagram story earlier this week that said, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide”.
Dakhil, who also represents the likes of Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon and Olivia Wilde, subsequently apologized in a statement and admitted that she made a “mistake”.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language. Like so many of us, I have been reeling with heartbreak.
- 10/22/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
One of CAA’s top agents has landed in hot water after a social media post calling Israel’s response to the Hamas terror attacks “genocide”.
Maha Dakhil, who represents stars including Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman, Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon, Olivia Wilde and directors such as Steve McQueen, reposted an Instagram story earlier this week, which was widely shared across the industry.
She reposted the story that said “You’re currently learning who supports genocide”.
Deadline contacted CAA yesterday to ask if there was a response to the post, but was told there was not.
We heard from numerous film and TV execs over the last 24 hours, who were offended and appalled by her post.
Dakhil, who is Co-Head of Motion Pictures at CAA and a board member, subsequently apologized in a statement and in a separate social media post.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story,...
Maha Dakhil, who represents stars including Tom Cruise, Natalie Portman, Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon, Olivia Wilde and directors such as Steve McQueen, reposted an Instagram story earlier this week, which was widely shared across the industry.
She reposted the story that said “You’re currently learning who supports genocide”.
Deadline contacted CAA yesterday to ask if there was a response to the post, but was told there was not.
We heard from numerous film and TV execs over the last 24 hours, who were offended and appalled by her post.
Dakhil, who is Co-Head of Motion Pictures at CAA and a board member, subsequently apologized in a statement and in a separate social media post.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story,...
- 10/20/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
A powerful agent to A-list celebrity clients like Tom Cruise and Madonna is under fire at her company, Creative Artists Agency, and in the larger Hollywood community over controversial Instagram posts regarding Israel.
On Wednesday evening, CAA’s star-whisperer Maha Dakhil reposted a statement from an account labeled Free Palestine, which weighed in on Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 terror attack executed by Islamic extremist group Hamas. The post read, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide,” to which Dakhil added her own caption: “That’s the line for me.” She then posted a second photo captioned, “What’s more heartbreaking than witnessing genocide? Witnessing the denial that genocide is happening.” She later deleted both posts from her account.
Dakhil’s posts have been shared widely within the industry, and Variety has confirmed their authenticity.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language.
On Wednesday evening, CAA’s star-whisperer Maha Dakhil reposted a statement from an account labeled Free Palestine, which weighed in on Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 terror attack executed by Islamic extremist group Hamas. The post read, “You’re currently learning who supports genocide,” to which Dakhil added her own caption: “That’s the line for me.” She then posted a second photo captioned, “What’s more heartbreaking than witnessing genocide? Witnessing the denial that genocide is happening.” She later deleted both posts from her account.
Dakhil’s posts have been shared widely within the industry, and Variety has confirmed their authenticity.
“I made a mistake with a repost in my Instagram story, which used hurtful language.
- 10/20/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
A studio head once told me that CAA’s top three leaders – Bryan Lourd, Kevin Huvane and Richard Lovett – had claws beneath their velvet gloves. It was a backhanded compliment, as the CEO was praising the trio’s devotion to their incredibly famous clients while also bemoaning their hard-driving negotiating style.
Those gloves will now be made by one of the biggest luxury fashion houses in the world, as the mega-agency sold a majority stake to Francois-Henri Pinault’s family investment fund Artemis this week. In a still-incomplete transaction, the French billionaire has snatched up controlling interest in the legendary talent shop and will nestle it in a portfolio that includes Gucci, Saint Laurent and the thousand-dollar–a-bottle winery Château Latour.
It’s impeccable brand placement for CAA, whose clients include Zendaya, Tom Cruise, Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop and sports stars like Dwayne Wade. And in any other Hollywood...
Those gloves will now be made by one of the biggest luxury fashion houses in the world, as the mega-agency sold a majority stake to Francois-Henri Pinault’s family investment fund Artemis this week. In a still-incomplete transaction, the French billionaire has snatched up controlling interest in the legendary talent shop and will nestle it in a portfolio that includes Gucci, Saint Laurent and the thousand-dollar–a-bottle winery Château Latour.
It’s impeccable brand placement for CAA, whose clients include Zendaya, Tom Cruise, Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop and sports stars like Dwayne Wade. And in any other Hollywood...
- 9/8/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
CAA returned to Ojai to celebrate and discuss diversity, intersectionality and social justice initiatives across the entertainment industry as part of the agency’s sixth annual CAA Amplify summit.
Organized by a multicultural staff of CAA agents and executives, the daylong event Tuesday featured moderated panel conversations ranging from Planned Parenthood president and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson to singer-actor siblings Halle and Chloe Bailey.
CAA co-head of Motion Picture & International Film Groups Maha Dakhil kicked off the event noting the importance of acknowledging and trying to resolve the complex racial and social boundaries that can often hinder minority talents in Hollywood.
“One of our greatest powers at CAA has always been the power to convening highlight influential people of color from entertainment and industries beyond. The act of convening culture makers was a revolution we were waiting for,” Dakhil said. “[As people of color], we are not just in the room; we are the room.
Organized by a multicultural staff of CAA agents and executives, the daylong event Tuesday featured moderated panel conversations ranging from Planned Parenthood president and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson to singer-actor siblings Halle and Chloe Bailey.
CAA co-head of Motion Picture & International Film Groups Maha Dakhil kicked off the event noting the importance of acknowledging and trying to resolve the complex racial and social boundaries that can often hinder minority talents in Hollywood.
“One of our greatest powers at CAA has always been the power to convening highlight influential people of color from entertainment and industries beyond. The act of convening culture makers was a revolution we were waiting for,” Dakhil said. “[As people of color], we are not just in the room; we are the room.
- 6/29/2023
- by Destiny Jackson
- Deadline Film + TV
Tom Cruise had quite the day on Feb 13.
First, he stopped by the Oscar nominees luncheon, where THR‘s Scott Feinberg reported that the Top Gun: Maverick star and producer “was swarmed by virtually everyone” while making his first stop on the awards season circuit.
That included Steven Spielberg, who gushed about Top Gun’s success, saying, “You saved Hollywood’s ass, and you might have saved theatrical distribution.” Cruise, who appeared humbled by the remarks from his collaborator on such films as Minority Report and War of the Worlds, took a hard line during the pandemic by pushing Paramount to hold Top Gun: Maverick for a theatrical release rather than a streaming premiere, a trend that had become popular (and controversial) during that time.
After the nominees luncheon, Cruise cruised over to Century City for a meeting with his CAA agents, a roster that includes Kevin Huvane, Joel Lubin and Maha Dakhil,...
First, he stopped by the Oscar nominees luncheon, where THR‘s Scott Feinberg reported that the Top Gun: Maverick star and producer “was swarmed by virtually everyone” while making his first stop on the awards season circuit.
That included Steven Spielberg, who gushed about Top Gun’s success, saying, “You saved Hollywood’s ass, and you might have saved theatrical distribution.” Cruise, who appeared humbled by the remarks from his collaborator on such films as Minority Report and War of the Worlds, took a hard line during the pandemic by pushing Paramount to hold Top Gun: Maverick for a theatrical release rather than a streaming premiere, a trend that had become popular (and controversial) during that time.
After the nominees luncheon, Cruise cruised over to Century City for a meeting with his CAA agents, a roster that includes Kevin Huvane, Joel Lubin and Maha Dakhil,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Today in Hollywood, an out-of-office email message might not be for a vacation — but instead a subtle form of protest.
Some industry workplaces, including most of the major talent agencies, will participate in a nationwide virtual walkout organized by Planned Parenthood to show support for abortion rights Wednesday afternoon at 4 p.m. Pt. Some companies are adding additional programming as well — ahead of the walkout at UTA, client and Hacks star Hannah Einbinder will moderate a conversation with Debasri Ghosh, managing director of the National Network of Abortion Funds, and Alencia Johnson, the founder and chief impact officer of the social impact agency 1063 West Broad.
The virtual walkout is one of the ways, in the nearly three weeks since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, that the entertainment industry has transitioned from shock to activism. There is also the group of power players,...
Today in Hollywood, an out-of-office email message might not be for a vacation — but instead a subtle form of protest.
Some industry workplaces, including most of the major talent agencies, will participate in a nationwide virtual walkout organized by Planned Parenthood to show support for abortion rights Wednesday afternoon at 4 p.m. Pt. Some companies are adding additional programming as well — ahead of the walkout at UTA, client and Hacks star Hannah Einbinder will moderate a conversation with Debasri Ghosh, managing director of the National Network of Abortion Funds, and Alencia Johnson, the founder and chief impact officer of the social impact agency 1063 West Broad.
The virtual walkout is one of the ways, in the nearly three weeks since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, that the entertainment industry has transitioned from shock to activism. There is also the group of power players,...
- 7/13/2022
- by Rebecca Keegan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A group of prominent entertainment industry women gathered Saturday for a video conference call to discuss next steps in the reignited fight for reproductive rights in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
The gathering, which included some men, was organized in part by Katie McGrath, a partner in Bad Robot who is married to superproducer J.J. Abrams, and the social impact strategy firm Acora Partners. The presentation was said to have run about two hours. McGrath and Abrams have been vocal and active supporters of pro-choice legislators and organizations.
The discussion was said to have included a presentation from an ob-gyn and medical experts, and a presentation on the complex legalities around abortion triggered by the high court’s decision. With Roe going away, numerous states have or are in the process of enacting highly restrictive laws or outright legal bans on the medical procedure.
The gathering, which included some men, was organized in part by Katie McGrath, a partner in Bad Robot who is married to superproducer J.J. Abrams, and the social impact strategy firm Acora Partners. The presentation was said to have run about two hours. McGrath and Abrams have been vocal and active supporters of pro-choice legislators and organizations.
The discussion was said to have included a presentation from an ob-gyn and medical experts, and a presentation on the complex legalities around abortion triggered by the high court’s decision. With Roe going away, numerous states have or are in the process of enacting highly restrictive laws or outright legal bans on the medical procedure.
- 6/27/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Olivia Colman will star in “Empire of Light,” the next film from director Sam Mendes that is set at Searchlight Pictures.
Mendes will direct “Empire of Light” as his follow-up to the Best Picture-nominated “1917.” Mendes also wrote the film; it marks the first time he’s penned a screenplay solo. “Empire of Light” is a love story set in and around a beautiful old cinema on the South Coast of England in the 1980s.
Mendes will also produce “Empire of Light” with Pippa Harris through his Neal Street Productions, ad Searchlight is aiming for a release in fall 2022.
Mendes will also reunite on the film with cinematographer Roger Deakins, who won his second Oscar on the continuous, unedited look of Mendes’ war film “1917.”
“I have long been an admirer of Searchlight and the dynamic way they have produced and released some of my favorite theatrical releases of recent years,...
Mendes will direct “Empire of Light” as his follow-up to the Best Picture-nominated “1917.” Mendes also wrote the film; it marks the first time he’s penned a screenplay solo. “Empire of Light” is a love story set in and around a beautiful old cinema on the South Coast of England in the 1980s.
Mendes will also produce “Empire of Light” with Pippa Harris through his Neal Street Productions, ad Searchlight is aiming for a release in fall 2022.
Mendes will also reunite on the film with cinematographer Roger Deakins, who won his second Oscar on the continuous, unedited look of Mendes’ war film “1917.”
“I have long been an admirer of Searchlight and the dynamic way they have produced and released some of my favorite theatrical releases of recent years,...
- 4/6/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Rachel Rusch has been named Co-Head of CAA Motion Picture Talent department and will work alongside Franklin Latt in leading the group. Rusch will continue to lead the agency’s Comedy department, a position she has held since 2019.
“Rachel is an extraordinary advocate for artists, a proven leader with a keen understanding of the marketplace, and a valued mentor to many within the agency and beyond,” said CAA Board Members Maha Dakhil and Joel Lubin in a joint statement. “Working collaboratively across the agency, she has led the Comedy department to new heights and will play a critical role in guiding the continued growth of the Motion Picture department in the years to come.”
Rusch, who joined CAA in 2010, represents many of the most prolific and accomplished comic talents working in film and television, including Trevor Noah, James Corden, Sacha Baron Cohen, Leslie Jones, Maria Bakalova, Cecily Strong, Ben Platt,...
“Rachel is an extraordinary advocate for artists, a proven leader with a keen understanding of the marketplace, and a valued mentor to many within the agency and beyond,” said CAA Board Members Maha Dakhil and Joel Lubin in a joint statement. “Working collaboratively across the agency, she has led the Comedy department to new heights and will play a critical role in guiding the continued growth of the Motion Picture department in the years to come.”
Rusch, who joined CAA in 2010, represents many of the most prolific and accomplished comic talents working in film and television, including Trevor Noah, James Corden, Sacha Baron Cohen, Leslie Jones, Maria Bakalova, Cecily Strong, Ben Platt,...
- 1/26/2021
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Creative Artists Agency executive Rachel Rusch has been elevated to co-head of motion picture talent. In her new role, she will lead the department alongside agency veteran Franklin Latt.
All the while, Rusch will continue to lead CAA’s comedy department, a position she’s held since 2019.
“Rachel is an extraordinary advocate for artists, a proven leader with a keen understanding of the marketplace, and a valued mentor to many within the agency and beyond,” CAA board members Maha Dakhil and Joel Lubin said in a statement. “Working collaboratively across the agency, she has led the comedy department to new heights and will play a critical role in guiding the continued growth of the motion picture department in the years to come.”
Since joining CAA in 2010, Rusch has represented comics working across film and television, including Trevor Noah, James Corden, Sacha Baron Cohen, Leslie Jones, Ben Platt, Cecily Strong and Zooey Deschanel.
All the while, Rusch will continue to lead CAA’s comedy department, a position she’s held since 2019.
“Rachel is an extraordinary advocate for artists, a proven leader with a keen understanding of the marketplace, and a valued mentor to many within the agency and beyond,” CAA board members Maha Dakhil and Joel Lubin said in a statement. “Working collaboratively across the agency, she has led the comedy department to new heights and will play a critical role in guiding the continued growth of the motion picture department in the years to come.”
Since joining CAA in 2010, Rusch has represented comics working across film and television, including Trevor Noah, James Corden, Sacha Baron Cohen, Leslie Jones, Ben Platt, Cecily Strong and Zooey Deschanel.
- 1/26/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
“We never do this.”
That phrase was repeated often in conversations with a dozen top leaders at CAA during the reporting of this week’s Variety cover story.
It’s true. No show business entity understands the value of myth-building more than the talent agency, which exists to broker power from within luxurious fortresses. None of the majors enjoys this image more than CAA, whose Century City headquarters is nicknamed “the Death Star,” based on the planet-destroying space station of “Star Wars.”
In lowering its bridges for a frank, on-the-record conversation about the state of the industry and the agency’s future, CAA’s top lieutenants subsequently revealed what it’s like to work there. Our biggest takeaway? Life inside CAA can be shockingly, refreshingly human.
Here’s a few things we gleaned from conversations with insiders.
They’re friends.
Thanks to portrayals in movies like “Swimming With Sharks” and HBO’s “Entourage,...
That phrase was repeated often in conversations with a dozen top leaders at CAA during the reporting of this week’s Variety cover story.
It’s true. No show business entity understands the value of myth-building more than the talent agency, which exists to broker power from within luxurious fortresses. None of the majors enjoys this image more than CAA, whose Century City headquarters is nicknamed “the Death Star,” based on the planet-destroying space station of “Star Wars.”
In lowering its bridges for a frank, on-the-record conversation about the state of the industry and the agency’s future, CAA’s top lieutenants subsequently revealed what it’s like to work there. Our biggest takeaway? Life inside CAA can be shockingly, refreshingly human.
Here’s a few things we gleaned from conversations with insiders.
They’re friends.
Thanks to portrayals in movies like “Swimming With Sharks” and HBO’s “Entourage,...
- 11/25/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
What makes CAA tick? How do top agents see the dealmaking environment? How deep are the wounds from the WGA battle? What has it meant to have private equity in the house for the past decade?
Nine senior CAA agents and executives and the co-ceo of parent company Tpg opened up to Variety on these questions and more. Here are highlights from those conversations.
On CAA’s competitive advantage:
Maha Dakhil (co-head of international film group and co-head of motion picture talent): I did not think I could possibly fit in by all that I had read about (agencies). I did not see myself as a natural fit, but what’s true is that this is not a monolithic place. The communication and the way we share information make people on the outside feel that we’re all so connected, and that we’re of the same mind — but we are truly a rambunctious,...
Nine senior CAA agents and executives and the co-ceo of parent company Tpg opened up to Variety on these questions and more. Here are highlights from those conversations.
On CAA’s competitive advantage:
Maha Dakhil (co-head of international film group and co-head of motion picture talent): I did not think I could possibly fit in by all that I had read about (agencies). I did not see myself as a natural fit, but what’s true is that this is not a monolithic place. The communication and the way we share information make people on the outside feel that we’re all so connected, and that we’re of the same mind — but we are truly a rambunctious,...
- 11/25/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran agent Dana Sims is joining Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in the Motion Picture Talent department effective July 1, the agency announced on Thursday.
Previously, Sims spent 11 years at ICM. She will be based in the Los Angeles office of CAA.
Sims brings clients to CAA that include Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger. Others will be announced soon.
Also Read: CAA Board Adds Sports Agent Lisa Joseph Metelus
Earlier this month, CAA appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to its board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy.
Others on the board include Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth, Michelle Kydd Lee, Joel Lubin, Sonya Rosenfeld, Rick Roskin, and Tiffany Ward, who collectively oversee the day-to-day management of the agency.
Read original story Veteran Agent Dana Sims Joins CAA in Motion...
Previously, Sims spent 11 years at ICM. She will be based in the Los Angeles office of CAA.
Sims brings clients to CAA that include Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger. Others will be announced soon.
Also Read: CAA Board Adds Sports Agent Lisa Joseph Metelus
Earlier this month, CAA appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to its board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy.
Others on the board include Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth, Michelle Kydd Lee, Joel Lubin, Sonya Rosenfeld, Rick Roskin, and Tiffany Ward, who collectively oversee the day-to-day management of the agency.
Read original story Veteran Agent Dana Sims Joins CAA in Motion...
- 6/11/2020
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
During a time where people of color — specifically Black people — and members of marginalized communities are being treated with injustice, CAA is looking to push the needle with new efforts that aim to foster the agency’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
CAA has taken action and appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to the CAA Board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January and underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy. CAA employees worldwide will also participate in “Blackout Tuesday” on June 2 which marks a day of reflection, disconnecting from work, to provoke accountability, change, and meaningful action. Finally, the agency is set to host its fourth annual Amplify conference, convening diverse leading artists and executives from the most impactful organizations in entertainment, sports, media, brands, technology, and social justice to accelerate the growth, value, and visibility of diversity in business.
“The events over the past couple...
CAA has taken action and appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to the CAA Board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January and underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy. CAA employees worldwide will also participate in “Blackout Tuesday” on June 2 which marks a day of reflection, disconnecting from work, to provoke accountability, change, and meaningful action. Finally, the agency is set to host its fourth annual Amplify conference, convening diverse leading artists and executives from the most impactful organizations in entertainment, sports, media, brands, technology, and social justice to accelerate the growth, value, and visibility of diversity in business.
“The events over the past couple...
- 6/1/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
The company is backed by a minority investment from CAA.
Former Studiocanal CEO Danny Perkins has today launched Elysian Film Group Distribution, a distribution arm for his Elysian Film Group, at the European Film Market in Berlin.
The new company is backed by a minority investment from Creative Artists Agency (CAA), which is partnering with the UK firm on a distribution company for the first time. The new company will form a slate aimed at mainstream UK cinema-goers although it is understood CAA projects will not automatically go through Elysian in the UK.
Further investors for the company will be announced in due course.
Former Studiocanal CEO Danny Perkins has today launched Elysian Film Group Distribution, a distribution arm for his Elysian Film Group, at the European Film Market in Berlin.
The new company is backed by a minority investment from Creative Artists Agency (CAA), which is partnering with the UK firm on a distribution company for the first time. The new company will form a slate aimed at mainstream UK cinema-goers although it is understood CAA projects will not automatically go through Elysian in the UK.
Further investors for the company will be announced in due course.
- 2/20/2020
- by 1101321¦Ben Dalton¦26¦
- ScreenDaily
Elysian Film Group, Danny Perkins’ film and TV production company, has formed a UK distribution company, Elysian Film Group Distribution, which is backed by a minority investment from CAA.
Elysian says it will focus on a “diverse slate that appeals to mainstream UK cinema-goers”. The company is at the Efm in acquisitions mode.
Industry vet Perkins, formerly Studiocanal UK chief, founded Elysian in 2018 with producer Kate Solomon (United 93) and the London-based duo are working on a slate of film and TV projects.
The deal marks the first time that CAA has worked with a UK partner to create a distribution company. Elysian expects additional investment in due course.
“There is a clear opportunity in the UK market for a nimble and well-resourced distribution operation to satisfy the demand from audiences for strong, commercial projects,” said Perkins. “CAA has been incredibly supportive and are ideally suited as a partner given their...
Elysian says it will focus on a “diverse slate that appeals to mainstream UK cinema-goers”. The company is at the Efm in acquisitions mode.
Industry vet Perkins, formerly Studiocanal UK chief, founded Elysian in 2018 with producer Kate Solomon (United 93) and the London-based duo are working on a slate of film and TV projects.
The deal marks the first time that CAA has worked with a UK partner to create a distribution company. Elysian expects additional investment in due course.
“There is a clear opportunity in the UK market for a nimble and well-resourced distribution operation to satisfy the demand from audiences for strong, commercial projects,” said Perkins. “CAA has been incredibly supportive and are ideally suited as a partner given their...
- 2/20/2020
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Makers, the Verizon Media brand revolving around women, unveiled its latest PBS title Not Done, a documentary that expands on the pubcaster’s documentary series Makers: Women Who Make America. The news came Tuesday during the sixth annual Makers Conference, now underway at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown.
Not Done will air June 30 at 8 Pm on PBS timed to the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. Sara Wolitzky directed the hourlong doc, produced by Alexandra Moss and executive produced by Makers founder Dyllan McGee.
The film surveys the landscape of the multifaceted women’s movement and includes archival and new interviews with activists, writers, celebrities, athletes, and politicians to bring these stories to life and connect the dots between the past and the present moment of transformation. Gloria Steinem, #MeToo founder Tarana Burke, Black Lives Matter Global Network co-founders Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza,...
Not Done will air June 30 at 8 Pm on PBS timed to the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. Sara Wolitzky directed the hourlong doc, produced by Alexandra Moss and executive produced by Makers founder Dyllan McGee.
The film surveys the landscape of the multifaceted women’s movement and includes archival and new interviews with activists, writers, celebrities, athletes, and politicians to bring these stories to life and connect the dots between the past and the present moment of transformation. Gloria Steinem, #MeToo founder Tarana Burke, Black Lives Matter Global Network co-founders Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza,...
- 2/11/2020
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) has hired Ryan Tracey as an agent in the television department, Variety has learned exclusively.
Tracey comes to CAA from UTA, where he had most recently served as head of TV Production. He has represented an numerous television producers during his career, including Aida Rodgers, Kathy Ciric, Anna Dokoza, Ellen Kuras, Mark Winemaker, Joe Incaprera, Paul Garnes, Patrick Markey, Jill Footlick, Julie Herrin, and Sarah Caplan. Tracey began his career in the mailroom at UTA in 2003. He served a brief stint at Paramount Vantage, before returning to UTA in 2008.
In his new role, he will be based out of CAA’s Los Angeles office.
News of the hire comes a day after CAA announced that the agency is establishing a board to manage its daily operations. The CAA Board will consist of eleven members: Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth,...
Tracey comes to CAA from UTA, where he had most recently served as head of TV Production. He has represented an numerous television producers during his career, including Aida Rodgers, Kathy Ciric, Anna Dokoza, Ellen Kuras, Mark Winemaker, Joe Incaprera, Paul Garnes, Patrick Markey, Jill Footlick, Julie Herrin, and Sarah Caplan. Tracey began his career in the mailroom at UTA in 2003. He served a brief stint at Paramount Vantage, before returning to UTA in 2008.
In his new role, he will be based out of CAA’s Los Angeles office.
News of the hire comes a day after CAA announced that the agency is establishing a board to manage its daily operations. The CAA Board will consist of eleven members: Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth,...
- 1/22/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
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