The Los Angeles Times came weather-wrapped Thursday morning. There was more plastic than paper, or so it seemed. There wasn’t even enough paper, apparently, to run a proper obituary for Chuck Philips, the Pulitzer Prize-winning former Times reporter who died last month.
Details about Chuck’s passing have been sparse — he is said to have requested no postmortem attention. But the Times did manage to print a brief, paid death notice for three days running. Go figure.
Chuck, as is well known in these parts, lost his job after succumbing to a hoax in his long quest to untangle the deadly rap music wars. He later said that a humiliating Page 1 apology and retraction in the Times was overblown and inaccurate. Be that as it may, he never lost the love and respect of colleagues, including myself, who found him a joy to know.
Dave Robb. Cari Beauchamp. Chuck Philips.
Details about Chuck’s passing have been sparse — he is said to have requested no postmortem attention. But the Times did manage to print a brief, paid death notice for three days running. Go figure.
Chuck, as is well known in these parts, lost his job after succumbing to a hoax in his long quest to untangle the deadly rap music wars. He later said that a humiliating Page 1 apology and retraction in the Times was overblown and inaccurate. Be that as it may, he never lost the love and respect of colleagues, including myself, who found him a joy to know.
Dave Robb. Cari Beauchamp. Chuck Philips.
- 2/2/2024
- by Michael Cieply
- Deadline Film + TV
Billie Lourd and Austen Rydell now have a family of four. The actors welcomed their second child on Dec. 12, and Lourd confirmed the news with a sweet Instagram photo shared on Dec. 15. "1️⃣2️⃣✨1️⃣2️⃣✨2️⃣2️⃣ Introducing: Kingston's sister: ✨✨✨✨✨✨...
- 12/15/2022
- by Eden Arielle Gordon
- Popsugar.com
Even the mighty CAA needed some reinforcements to stay competitive in the global entertainment landscape. That was the perspective shared on Tuesday morning by Bryan Lourd, the agency’s managing director and co-chairman, during his keynote address at Variety’s annual Dealmakers event in Beverly Hills.
Lourd spoke in detail about CAA’s recent acquisition of ICM Partners during the conversation with Claudia Eller, Variety‘s chief production officer. Over the nearly hourlong interview, Lourd touched on issues ranging from the state of play for talent at Hollywood’s major studios networks, the return of Bob Iger to Disney, the possibility of CAA going public and the chance that the creative community will be crippled by a strike next year.
“There’s one thing we do better than anyone in the world,” Lourd said of CAA’s dedication to representing talent. “There are other companies who call themselves agencies, and...
Lourd spoke in detail about CAA’s recent acquisition of ICM Partners during the conversation with Claudia Eller, Variety‘s chief production officer. Over the nearly hourlong interview, Lourd touched on issues ranging from the state of play for talent at Hollywood’s major studios networks, the return of Bob Iger to Disney, the possibility of CAA going public and the chance that the creative community will be crippled by a strike next year.
“There’s one thing we do better than anyone in the world,” Lourd said of CAA’s dedication to representing talent. “There are other companies who call themselves agencies, and...
- 12/13/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
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
In an email to Variety staff on Tuesday, Claudia Eller announced she will return to work as Variety’s Chief Production Officer, effective this week. In this new role, Eller will work closely with Variety CEO Michelle Sobrino-Stearns and Chief Operating and Marketing Officer Dea Lawrence to book and curate Variety’s award-winning live media and events programming.
Eller also will also focus on developing longform documentaries for Variety and will serve as the Executive Producer.
“We are thrilled to welcome Claudia back to the Variety family in her new role as Chief Production Officer,” said Variety CEO Michelle Sobrino-Stearns. “Since joining Variety in 2013, Claudia has been instrumental to our explosive growth and helped cement Variety’s reputation as the standard-bearer of entertainment industry news. We’re thrilled she is back.”
Eller served as Variety’s Editor-in-Chief from 2013 through the summer of 2022. Variety veterans Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh succeeded her as Co-Editor in Chiefs,...
Eller also will also focus on developing longform documentaries for Variety and will serve as the Executive Producer.
“We are thrilled to welcome Claudia back to the Variety family in her new role as Chief Production Officer,” said Variety CEO Michelle Sobrino-Stearns. “Since joining Variety in 2013, Claudia has been instrumental to our explosive growth and helped cement Variety’s reputation as the standard-bearer of entertainment industry news. We’re thrilled she is back.”
Eller served as Variety’s Editor-in-Chief from 2013 through the summer of 2022. Variety veterans Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh succeeded her as Co-Editor in Chiefs,...
- 10/13/2022
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Sylvester Stallone is synonymous with the character of Rocky Balboa, the scrappy underdog boxer who first brought him to the spotlight in the ’70s. But in recent years, Stallone has made it very clear that even though the films are inextricably linked with him, he’s not happy about the way the original deal was structured and thinks he should have received an ownership stake.
On July 31, following the announcement of a “Rocky” spinoff film in development about the characters of Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) and Viktor Drago (Viktor Drago), Stallone took to Instagram to express his frustrations about the direction of the expanding franchise, and particularly its longtime producer Irwin Winkler. In a since-deleted post, the actor called the 91-year-old producer and his children Charles and David Winkler “vultures” and “parasites” who he says are exploiting the franchise. Earlier in July, the actor posted another (also now deleted) Instagram...
On July 31, following the announcement of a “Rocky” spinoff film in development about the characters of Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) and Viktor Drago (Viktor Drago), Stallone took to Instagram to express his frustrations about the direction of the expanding franchise, and particularly its longtime producer Irwin Winkler. In a since-deleted post, the actor called the 91-year-old producer and his children Charles and David Winkler “vultures” and “parasites” who he says are exploiting the franchise. Earlier in July, the actor posted another (also now deleted) Instagram...
- 8/11/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has scored 98 nominations for the 2021 National Art and Entertainment Journalism awards, leading all publications.
The awards are presented yearly by the Los Angeles Press Club.
“Thank you to the Naej for recognizing the hard and wonderful work of our great team of writers and editors. We’re so honored,” said Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of Variety.
Variety was nominated twice for print entertainment publication, for its “Hitmakers” and “Gamechangers” issues. Variety.com was nominated for entertainment website. Senior vice president Tim Gray and features editor Chris Willman both earned nominations for print journalist of the year, while deputy music editor Jem Aswad is nominated for online journalist of the year.
Variety scored six nominations across the photography and art category, including two nods for cover art, for the “Death of Cable” and “Power of Women” covers. Photo director Jennifer Dorn, former creative director Raul Aguila and photographer Sophy Holland were...
The awards are presented yearly by the Los Angeles Press Club.
“Thank you to the Naej for recognizing the hard and wonderful work of our great team of writers and editors. We’re so honored,” said Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of Variety.
Variety was nominated twice for print entertainment publication, for its “Hitmakers” and “Gamechangers” issues. Variety.com was nominated for entertainment website. Senior vice president Tim Gray and features editor Chris Willman both earned nominations for print journalist of the year, while deputy music editor Jem Aswad is nominated for online journalist of the year.
Variety scored six nominations across the photography and art category, including two nods for cover art, for the “Death of Cable” and “Power of Women” covers. Photo director Jennifer Dorn, former creative director Raul Aguila and photographer Sophy Holland were...
- 1/19/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
In Netflix’s upcoming assassin thriller “The Killers,” director David Fincher does what David Fincher does best — which is to say the filmmaker delves deep into the mind of the deeply disturbed.
The film, starring Michael Fassbender as a cold-blooded hitman who suddenly develops a conscience, is the kind of tense, edge-of-your-seat character study that harkens back to some of the director’s previous masterworks like “Se7en,” “Fight Club,” “Zodiac” and “Mindhunter.”
“It’s a really provocative and interesting movie,” hints Scott Stuber, the head of global films at Netflix. “It is about the methodology of that world, which David details better than anyone. He’s so good in the detail of method… of watching something unfold. It’s a really fun, big movie in the hands of one of the best filmmakers.”
“The Killers” is one of several movies soon to be streaming on Netflix that have Stuber excited about the future of film.
The film, starring Michael Fassbender as a cold-blooded hitman who suddenly develops a conscience, is the kind of tense, edge-of-your-seat character study that harkens back to some of the director’s previous masterworks like “Se7en,” “Fight Club,” “Zodiac” and “Mindhunter.”
“It’s a really provocative and interesting movie,” hints Scott Stuber, the head of global films at Netflix. “It is about the methodology of that world, which David details better than anyone. He’s so good in the detail of method… of watching something unfold. It’s a really fun, big movie in the hands of one of the best filmmakers.”
“The Killers” is one of several movies soon to be streaming on Netflix that have Stuber excited about the future of film.
- 12/15/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Variety and Facebook Team Up to Spotlight Underrepresented Communities in New Video Series ‘Up Next’
Variety and Facebook have teamed up to launch a new video series that spotlights individuals from underrepresented communities who are driving change across the globe.
The new series, titled “Up Next,” will ask well-known creators and talent from across TV, film and music about individuals they believe are “up next” for major recognition in the industry.
The series will debut with profiles of change-makers in the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, including Sasami (presented by Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast), Larry Teng (presented by Vanessa Lachey), Ming-Na Wen, and more.
“We are thrilled to be launching a series that focuses on the stories told by the next generation of diverse voices in entertainment,” said Variety Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller.
“Programming like this, which elevates Asian American and Pacific Islander voices, can connect and inspire people through story,” said Frank Spada, Strategic Partner Manager for Entertainment at Meta. “Facebook empowers people to find and build communities,...
The new series, titled “Up Next,” will ask well-known creators and talent from across TV, film and music about individuals they believe are “up next” for major recognition in the industry.
The series will debut with profiles of change-makers in the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, including Sasami (presented by Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast), Larry Teng (presented by Vanessa Lachey), Ming-Na Wen, and more.
“We are thrilled to be launching a series that focuses on the stories told by the next generation of diverse voices in entertainment,” said Variety Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller.
“Programming like this, which elevates Asian American and Pacific Islander voices, can connect and inspire people through story,” said Frank Spada, Strategic Partner Manager for Entertainment at Meta. “Facebook empowers people to find and build communities,...
- 12/10/2021
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
With the WarnerMedia-Discovery merger under regulatory review and under fire from liberals in Congress, David Zaslav can’t say much about his plans for leading Warner Bros. Discovery if the $43 billion transaction is confirmed, as expected by the middle of next year.
But Zaslav, president and CEO of Discovery, offered a glimpse of his operational vision for enlarged company on Wednesday as part of his wide-ranging Variety Dealmakers virtual conversation with Claudia Eller, Variety Editor in Chief.
“One of the philosophies of the companies is that we’re hiring doers,” Zaslav told Eller. “We need to de-layer as much as possible get as close to the product, as close to the content, as close to the sale as possible. That helps us and will help this new company as we strive to be entrepreneurial and fast, which is going to be critical.”
Zaslav was pressed by Eller about...
But Zaslav, president and CEO of Discovery, offered a glimpse of his operational vision for enlarged company on Wednesday as part of his wide-ranging Variety Dealmakers virtual conversation with Claudia Eller, Variety Editor in Chief.
“One of the philosophies of the companies is that we’re hiring doers,” Zaslav told Eller. “We need to de-layer as much as possible get as close to the product, as close to the content, as close to the sale as possible. That helps us and will help this new company as we strive to be entrepreneurial and fast, which is going to be critical.”
Zaslav was pressed by Eller about...
- 12/8/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Movie theaters reopened, “Succession” Season 3 is finally here and some of the biggest artists are hitting the road once again to go back on tour. As the entertainment industry mounts a measured comeback amid the global pandemic, here are the films, series and artists that the writers, editors and reporters at Variety are thankful for this Thanksgiving.
I’m thankful for “Succession” Season 3! — Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief
Thankful that finally a woman of color has won an Oscar for best director! Thank you for providing exceptional representation, Chloé Zhao. — Tiana DeNicola, production supervisor
I’m thankful for the “Wonder Years” reboot. It’s wonderful! Makes me laugh out loud. Many scenes I lived. Pure joy! — Sheila Dixon Howard, editorial coordinator
I’m thankful for “Ted Lasso” and “Dopesick” — two shows that moved me deeply this year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief
I am grateful for the return of live music and Willie Nelson being back on tour.
I’m thankful for “Succession” Season 3! — Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief
Thankful that finally a woman of color has won an Oscar for best director! Thank you for providing exceptional representation, Chloé Zhao. — Tiana DeNicola, production supervisor
I’m thankful for the “Wonder Years” reboot. It’s wonderful! Makes me laugh out loud. Many scenes I lived. Pure joy! — Sheila Dixon Howard, editorial coordinator
I’m thankful for “Ted Lasso” and “Dopesick” — two shows that moved me deeply this year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief
I am grateful for the return of live music and Willie Nelson being back on tour.
- 11/25/2021
- by David Viramontes
- Variety Film + TV
Every once in a long while, I manage to have an encounter with the film producer Albert S. Ruddy. It’s always—what?
Funny? Fascinating? Enlightening? Unexpected?
I think I’ll go with amazing.
It’s certainly amazing to see Al Ruddy, at the age of 91, credited as a producer of Cry Macho, which is set for release by Warner Bros. and HBO Max on Sept. 17–and not just because the movie is directed by and stars Clint Eastwood, who is also 91. To put things in perspective, Ruddy has been trying to get the picture made since I was an struggling doctoral student of Modern European History, which would be 46 years ago, give or take. Once, the film seems to have started, with Roy Scheider, in Mexico. (That would be somewhere among iterations that involved Burt Lancaster and Pierce Brosnan.) But something happened, and the plug got pulled. By then,...
Funny? Fascinating? Enlightening? Unexpected?
I think I’ll go with amazing.
It’s certainly amazing to see Al Ruddy, at the age of 91, credited as a producer of Cry Macho, which is set for release by Warner Bros. and HBO Max on Sept. 17–and not just because the movie is directed by and stars Clint Eastwood, who is also 91. To put things in perspective, Ruddy has been trying to get the picture made since I was an struggling doctoral student of Modern European History, which would be 46 years ago, give or take. Once, the film seems to have started, with Roy Scheider, in Mexico. (That would be somewhere among iterations that involved Burt Lancaster and Pierce Brosnan.) But something happened, and the plug got pulled. By then,...
- 9/1/2021
- by Michael Cieply
- Deadline Film + TV
Variety is expanding its coverage of the booming documentary sector with the launch today of a dedicated Docs vertical on Variety‘s online and mobile platforms.
The new section, sponsored by Showtime Documentary Films, highlights news and trends in documentary content, as well as reviews of new and vintage docus, filmmaker interviews, trailers, other video content and viewing recommendations by genre. It also features an extensive listing of film and TV documentary premiere dates.
The inaugural lineup includes a lengthy Q&a with Richard Ray Perez, the newly appointed executive director of the International Documentary Assn.
“Variety is making a huge push into the art and business of documentary filmmaking,” said Claudia Eller, Variety’s Editor-in-Chief. “There’s been an explosion of compelling content across the media landscape — both in the form of feature docs and docu-series — which our new vertical is devoted to celebrating.”
The launch of the Docs...
The new section, sponsored by Showtime Documentary Films, highlights news and trends in documentary content, as well as reviews of new and vintage docus, filmmaker interviews, trailers, other video content and viewing recommendations by genre. It also features an extensive listing of film and TV documentary premiere dates.
The inaugural lineup includes a lengthy Q&a with Richard Ray Perez, the newly appointed executive director of the International Documentary Assn.
“Variety is making a huge push into the art and business of documentary filmmaking,” said Claudia Eller, Variety’s Editor-in-Chief. “There’s been an explosion of compelling content across the media landscape — both in the form of feature docs and docu-series — which our new vertical is devoted to celebrating.”
The launch of the Docs...
- 7/1/2021
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Alex Castro, a three-time Emmy nominee and a former producer of “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” has joined Variety as VP of video.
Castro will lead Variety‘s fast-growing video operation as the venerable entertainment news brand expands the scope of its video production for Variety.com and other digital and TV platforms. He will report to Variety Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller and Dea Lawrence, Variety chief marketing officer.
“We’re so excited to welcome Alex into our Variety family and can’t wait to work with someone as experienced, savvy and creatively adept at storytelling as he is,” Eller said.
Variety has grown its presence in TV significantly during the past year with branded primetime specials, including the upcoming “Lifetime Presents Variety’s Power of Women: The Comedians” and last year’s “Lifetime Presents Variety’s Power of Women: Frontline Heroes” and “Variety’s Salute to Service,” which aired on History.
Castro will lead Variety‘s fast-growing video operation as the venerable entertainment news brand expands the scope of its video production for Variety.com and other digital and TV platforms. He will report to Variety Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller and Dea Lawrence, Variety chief marketing officer.
“We’re so excited to welcome Alex into our Variety family and can’t wait to work with someone as experienced, savvy and creatively adept at storytelling as he is,” Eller said.
Variety has grown its presence in TV significantly during the past year with branded primetime specials, including the upcoming “Lifetime Presents Variety’s Power of Women: The Comedians” and last year’s “Lifetime Presents Variety’s Power of Women: Frontline Heroes” and “Variety’s Salute to Service,” which aired on History.
- 3/25/2021
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Drew Dixon, who spoke about her accusation of rape against Russell Simmons in the 2020 documentary “On the Record,” lashed out at Variety and its leadership Saturday for publishing the contents of her text messages without permission.
“I stand by @OnTheRecordDoc,” the former Def Jam executive tweeted. “I’m disgusted that @Variety printed my private text messages w/o my consent. I feel violated by [executive editor Ramin Setoodeh] and [editor-in-chief Claudia Eller]. Russell Simmons is a rapist. Period. I’m grateful to @janedoefilms for giving a voice to Black survivors.”
The piece in question cited texts from Dixon that said she felt producers of the HBO Max documentary had been “triggering” her in the final months leading up to its premiere. Broadly, the piece focused on Jane Doe Films, which made not only “On the Record,” but “Allen v. Farrow,” and highlighted reported negative experiences of Alexia Norton Jones, who also accused Simmons of rape.
“I stand by @OnTheRecordDoc,” the former Def Jam executive tweeted. “I’m disgusted that @Variety printed my private text messages w/o my consent. I feel violated by [executive editor Ramin Setoodeh] and [editor-in-chief Claudia Eller]. Russell Simmons is a rapist. Period. I’m grateful to @janedoefilms for giving a voice to Black survivors.”
The piece in question cited texts from Dixon that said she felt producers of the HBO Max documentary had been “triggering” her in the final months leading up to its premiere. Broadly, the piece focused on Jane Doe Films, which made not only “On the Record,” but “Allen v. Farrow,” and highlighted reported negative experiences of Alexia Norton Jones, who also accused Simmons of rape.
- 3/13/2021
- by Lindsey Ellefson
- The Wrap
The fact that we have an International Women’s Day means we are still in trouble. There is no International Men’s Day. Only less powerful people or forgotten historical events need “A Day” to be part of the present. Yet it’s an important step because any notice is better than no notice.
On this International Women’s Day, we might start by admitting why women are subordinated in the first place. We have the one thing that men don’t have — wombs — and they can’t perpetuate themselves or differences of race and class without controlling or influencing us.
Until the 1960s, interracial marriage was illegal in some parts of this country, and children not “owned” by a man were “illegitimate.” Even now, right-wing groups object to abortion or clinics that teach contraception, mostly because white women have been choosing to have fewer children on average than women of color.
On this International Women’s Day, we might start by admitting why women are subordinated in the first place. We have the one thing that men don’t have — wombs — and they can’t perpetuate themselves or differences of race and class without controlling or influencing us.
Until the 1960s, interracial marriage was illegal in some parts of this country, and children not “owned” by a man were “illegitimate.” Even now, right-wing groups object to abortion or clinics that teach contraception, mostly because white women have been choosing to have fewer children on average than women of color.
- 3/8/2021
- by Gloria Steinem
- Variety Film + TV
Breaking: Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of our sister publication Variety, will take a two month administrative leave after making an angry social media outburst in a heated moment.
This came after Eller wrote an article lamenting that Variety did not have enough diversity in its staff, and vowed to work to change things. She was challenged on social media and responded to a former employee at a rival trade, Piya Sinha-Roy, who is of South Asian descent. Eller called the woman “bitter,” leading to a continued heated exchange. After a meeting between Eller, Pmc and Variety staffers who were offended by the back and forth, it was mutually decided it would be best for Eller to take some time away to consider her actions.
While Eller is doing that, Cynthia Littleton will step in as interim editor. Littleton had been co-editor-in-chief along with Eller and Andrew Wallenstein, before stepping away from...
This came after Eller wrote an article lamenting that Variety did not have enough diversity in its staff, and vowed to work to change things. She was challenged on social media and responded to a former employee at a rival trade, Piya Sinha-Roy, who is of South Asian descent. Eller called the woman “bitter,” leading to a continued heated exchange. After a meeting between Eller, Pmc and Variety staffers who were offended by the back and forth, it was mutually decided it would be best for Eller to take some time away to consider her actions.
While Eller is doing that, Cynthia Littleton will step in as interim editor. Littleton had been co-editor-in-chief along with Eller and Andrew Wallenstein, before stepping away from...
- 6/5/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Variety‘s team of writers, editors, photographers and designers has been nominated for outstanding magazine overall coverage at the forthcoming 31st GLAAD Media Awards.
Announced Wednesday, the annual ceremony honors fair, accurate and inclusive representations of Lgbtq people and issues in filmed content and journalism across platforms and languages. Variety won the outstanding magazine prize in 2019 for its groundbreaking Trans Hollywood issue.
“I am so proud that we received this important nomination from GLAAD,” said Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller. “Covering the Lgbtq community all year round is among our biggest editorial priorities, as is publishing our annual branded Pride Issue. Thank you so much for this recognition.”
The 2020 nomination comes on the heels of the magazine’s inaugural Power of Pride issue, a deeply reported look at the state of pride in entertainment media, and how figures essential to Variety‘s coverage amplify queer voices globally. Flagship cover stars and...
Announced Wednesday, the annual ceremony honors fair, accurate and inclusive representations of Lgbtq people and issues in filmed content and journalism across platforms and languages. Variety won the outstanding magazine prize in 2019 for its groundbreaking Trans Hollywood issue.
“I am so proud that we received this important nomination from GLAAD,” said Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller. “Covering the Lgbtq community all year round is among our biggest editorial priorities, as is publishing our annual branded Pride Issue. Thank you so much for this recognition.”
The 2020 nomination comes on the heels of the magazine’s inaugural Power of Pride issue, a deeply reported look at the state of pride in entertainment media, and how figures essential to Variety‘s coverage amplify queer voices globally. Flagship cover stars and...
- 1/8/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety and PBS SoCal’s 11th edition of the Emmy award-winning series “Variety Studio: Actors on Actors” premieres Thursday on PBS SoCal at 8 p.m. Pt.
“Variety Studio: Actors on Actors” features one-on-one conversations between this season’s top awards contenders. All four episodes will air on PBS stations across the nation as well as the World Channel before streaming on the PBS Video app following the premiere.
“In its eleventh season, Actors on Actors has become a dynamic Emmy Award-winning franchise for Variety and PBS SoCal,” said Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller. “This season features conversations with some of the biggest stars in the movie business.”
The first episode will feature conversations between Tom Hanks (“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”) and Renée Zellweger (“Judy”); Brad Pitt (“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”) and Adam Sandler (“Uncut Gems”); and Awkwafina (“The Farewell”) and Taron Egerton (“Rocketman”).
The second episode, airing at 8:30 p.
“Variety Studio: Actors on Actors” features one-on-one conversations between this season’s top awards contenders. All four episodes will air on PBS stations across the nation as well as the World Channel before streaming on the PBS Video app following the premiere.
“In its eleventh season, Actors on Actors has become a dynamic Emmy Award-winning franchise for Variety and PBS SoCal,” said Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller. “This season features conversations with some of the biggest stars in the movie business.”
The first episode will feature conversations between Tom Hanks (“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”) and Renée Zellweger (“Judy”); Brad Pitt (“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”) and Adam Sandler (“Uncut Gems”); and Awkwafina (“The Farewell”) and Taron Egerton (“Rocketman”).
The second episode, airing at 8:30 p.
- 1/2/2020
- by Lorraine Wheat
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy award-winning producer Lena Waithe will be honored with the Creative Impact in Producing Award at the Palm Springs Film Festival as part of Variety‘s 10 Directors to Watch brunch, presented by AT&T.
Waithe is the screenwriter and producer of Universal Pictures and Makeready’s “Queen & Slim,” which received the Impact Award and was listed as one of the top 10 Best Films of the Year by the African-American Film Critics Association. The film is the feature film debut of both Waithe and director Melina Matsoukas. Aside from her work on the big screen, her work can also be seen on the small screen in shows like “Master of None,” “The Chi” and “Boomerang.”
“Lena Waithe is one of the most prolific writer-actor-producers working in Hollywood right now, with an extraordinary ability to get projects with black filmmakers and talent produced for film and television,” says Claudia Eller, Variety editor-in-chief.
Waithe is the screenwriter and producer of Universal Pictures and Makeready’s “Queen & Slim,” which received the Impact Award and was listed as one of the top 10 Best Films of the Year by the African-American Film Critics Association. The film is the feature film debut of both Waithe and director Melina Matsoukas. Aside from her work on the big screen, her work can also be seen on the small screen in shows like “Master of None,” “The Chi” and “Boomerang.”
“Lena Waithe is one of the most prolific writer-actor-producers working in Hollywood right now, with an extraordinary ability to get projects with black filmmakers and talent produced for film and television,” says Claudia Eller, Variety editor-in-chief.
- 12/23/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety will honor “The Irishman” star Robert De Niro with the Creative Impact in Acting Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
De Niro will be presented with the award on Jan. 3 as part of the annual 10 Directors to Watch brunch presented by AT&T. Todd Phillips will also receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award.
De Niro won Oscars for Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather: Part II” and Martin Scorsese’s “Raging Bull” before taking on the role of Frank Sheeran in Scorsese’s “The Irishman.”
“Robert De Niro is one of cinema’s greatest actors, and his recent collaboration with Martin Scorsese in ‘The Irishman’ is a career-best,” Variety‘s editor-in-chief Claudia Eller said. “De Niro embodies Frank Sheeran from a 20 something-year-old man to an elderly man in a nuanced performance that has resonated with audiences and critics alike. We are so glad to be giving...
De Niro will be presented with the award on Jan. 3 as part of the annual 10 Directors to Watch brunch presented by AT&T. Todd Phillips will also receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award.
De Niro won Oscars for Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather: Part II” and Martin Scorsese’s “Raging Bull” before taking on the role of Frank Sheeran in Scorsese’s “The Irishman.”
“Robert De Niro is one of cinema’s greatest actors, and his recent collaboration with Martin Scorsese in ‘The Irishman’ is a career-best,” Variety‘s editor-in-chief Claudia Eller said. “De Niro embodies Frank Sheeran from a 20 something-year-old man to an elderly man in a nuanced performance that has resonated with audiences and critics alike. We are so glad to be giving...
- 12/19/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety will honor “Joker” director Todd Phillips at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on Jan. 3 as a part of its annual 10 Directors to Watch brunch, presented by AT&T.
Phillips, who also co-wrote and produced the box office smash, will receive the annual creative impact in directing award.
The prize celebrates Phillips’ work on the groundbreaking Warner Bros. pic starring Joaquin Phoenix. Since the drama’s release, “Joker” has racked up a lengthy list of accolades, namely receiving the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and becoming the highest grossing R-rated movie of all time. On Monday, the film garnered four Golden Globe nominations for drama, director, actor and original score.
“Todd Phillips’ ‘Joker’ is one of the most provocative, celebrated films of the year, with an extraordinary lead performance by Joaquin Phoenix,” Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller said. “Todd’s unique vision and masterful creativity showcases iconic artisan work,...
Phillips, who also co-wrote and produced the box office smash, will receive the annual creative impact in directing award.
The prize celebrates Phillips’ work on the groundbreaking Warner Bros. pic starring Joaquin Phoenix. Since the drama’s release, “Joker” has racked up a lengthy list of accolades, namely receiving the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and becoming the highest grossing R-rated movie of all time. On Monday, the film garnered four Golden Globe nominations for drama, director, actor and original score.
“Todd Phillips’ ‘Joker’ is one of the most provocative, celebrated films of the year, with an extraordinary lead performance by Joaquin Phoenix,” Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller said. “Todd’s unique vision and masterful creativity showcases iconic artisan work,...
- 12/10/2019
- by LaTesha Harris
- Variety Film + TV
The Chernin Group head and former News Corp. exec Peter Chernin believes that Hulu, not Netflix, should’ve been the dominant streaming platform of the modern era, blaming Fox and NBC for diminishing the streaming service he helped launch in 2007 in a joint venture with then-NBCUniversal chief Jeff Zucker.
“The day we both left [around 2009/2010], both of those companies turned around and in some ways throttled Hulu,” he told Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller at the Variety Dealmakers Elite breakfast on Friday, alleging that Fox and NBC increased the ad load on Hulu and began holding back content. “Every single person at Fox hated Hulu,” he added.
“That should’ve been the dominant streaming platform,” said Chernin. “I would argue that their throttling of that in the four to five years after that is potentially one of the bigger mistakes that’s been made in the media business. There’s no...
“The day we both left [around 2009/2010], both of those companies turned around and in some ways throttled Hulu,” he told Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller at the Variety Dealmakers Elite breakfast on Friday, alleging that Fox and NBC increased the ad load on Hulu and began holding back content. “Every single person at Fox hated Hulu,” he added.
“That should’ve been the dominant streaming platform,” said Chernin. “I would argue that their throttling of that in the four to five years after that is potentially one of the bigger mistakes that’s been made in the media business. There’s no...
- 12/6/2019
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
It’s different strokes for different streaming folks as Amazon, HBO Max and Netflix lifted the lid on their international plans in London this week.
Amazon said it’s not in the volume game and talked up a select number of hyper-local shows, while Netflix dished on plans to rev up non-English-language originals. The message from HBO Max was that it’s laying the groundwork for its international launch, but details will have to wait until after it has gotten through its domestic launch next May.
Amazon’s European originals director, Georgia Brown, said its originals strategy is “hyper-local, with a spotlight on local production, local language to drive subscribers in those territories.” Talking up the potential of non-English-language fare internationally, she said that “language is kind of irrelevant now,” and “audiences are very open – they just want fantastic content and to fall into those worlds.”
Netflix also warmed to...
Amazon said it’s not in the volume game and talked up a select number of hyper-local shows, while Netflix dished on plans to rev up non-English-language originals. The message from HBO Max was that it’s laying the groundwork for its international launch, but details will have to wait until after it has gotten through its domestic launch next May.
Amazon’s European originals director, Georgia Brown, said its originals strategy is “hyper-local, with a spotlight on local production, local language to drive subscribers in those territories.” Talking up the potential of non-English-language fare internationally, she said that “language is kind of irrelevant now,” and “audiences are very open – they just want fantastic content and to fall into those worlds.”
Netflix also warmed to...
- 12/6/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is closer to getting into the numbers game than it’s ever been.
Scott Stuber, the head of original films at Netflix, says the behemoth streaming company — which has famously kept its viewership and box office data hidden from public display — is working on a comprehensive system of making audience metrics for its films more transparent.
While in a conversation with Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller at Variety‘s Innovate Summit presented by Pwc in Los Angeles on Thursday, Stuber explained that Netflix is “building towards” releasing more viewership data.
“You’ll see more numbers from us, more transparency, more articulation of what’s working and not,” Stuber says. “Because we recognize it’s important, sometimes to the creative community. It’s important to the press. It’s important to everything. So we were definitely headed in that direction as a company.”
Other Netflix executives — including content chief Ted Sarandos...
Scott Stuber, the head of original films at Netflix, says the behemoth streaming company — which has famously kept its viewership and box office data hidden from public display — is working on a comprehensive system of making audience metrics for its films more transparent.
While in a conversation with Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller at Variety‘s Innovate Summit presented by Pwc in Los Angeles on Thursday, Stuber explained that Netflix is “building towards” releasing more viewership data.
“You’ll see more numbers from us, more transparency, more articulation of what’s working and not,” Stuber says. “Because we recognize it’s important, sometimes to the creative community. It’s important to the press. It’s important to everything. So we were definitely headed in that direction as a company.”
Other Netflix executives — including content chief Ted Sarandos...
- 12/5/2019
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
The Chernin Group chairman and CEO Peter Chernin will keynote Variety’s Dealmakers Elite Breakfast on Dec. 6.
Credited with a long list of box office hits and popular TV shows, such as “New Girl,” “Hidden Figures” and “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” Chernin will discuss his dual interest in TV/film production as well as startup investment deals with his company in a conversation with Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller.
His Chernin Entertainment division produced Apple TV Plus’ “See” with Endeavor Content, as part of the first slate of original programming on the streaming service. He’s also an executive producer on “Truth Be Told,” another series launching exclusively on Apple TV Plus. Based on Kathleen Barber’s novel “Are You Sleeping,” the Octavia Spencer-led series premieres on Friday.
The former News Corp exec’s company has thrived since its switch from holdings company to investment firm last year.
Credited with a long list of box office hits and popular TV shows, such as “New Girl,” “Hidden Figures” and “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” Chernin will discuss his dual interest in TV/film production as well as startup investment deals with his company in a conversation with Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller.
His Chernin Entertainment division produced Apple TV Plus’ “See” with Endeavor Content, as part of the first slate of original programming on the streaming service. He’s also an executive producer on “Truth Be Told,” another series launching exclusively on Apple TV Plus. Based on Kathleen Barber’s novel “Are You Sleeping,” the Octavia Spencer-led series premieres on Friday.
The former News Corp exec’s company has thrived since its switch from holdings company to investment firm last year.
- 12/2/2019
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Kirsten Howard Nov 14, 2019
Disney's Cco Alan Horn isn't ruling out a Mandalorian movie if the Star Wars series is popular enough.
Disney launched its much-anticipated streaming service Disney+ this week. It's safe to say that despite some bugs, including various login problems, it went well - over 10 million users have already signed up.
Walt Disney Studios co-chairman and chief creative officer Alan Horn turned up at the Variety Business Managers Breakfast this week to chat about how things are going over at Disney, where Variety's editor-in-chief, Claudia Eller, pursued a line of questioning on whether exclusive series developed for Disney+ might go on to become films. This is of particular interest, as the most recent Star Wars trilogy will wrap up in cinemas next month with J.J. Abrams' The Rise of Skywalker, and Lucasfilm seems to now be putting ts focus and money on projects like Jon Favreau's pricey TV show,...
Disney's Cco Alan Horn isn't ruling out a Mandalorian movie if the Star Wars series is popular enough.
Disney launched its much-anticipated streaming service Disney+ this week. It's safe to say that despite some bugs, including various login problems, it went well - over 10 million users have already signed up.
Walt Disney Studios co-chairman and chief creative officer Alan Horn turned up at the Variety Business Managers Breakfast this week to chat about how things are going over at Disney, where Variety's editor-in-chief, Claudia Eller, pursued a line of questioning on whether exclusive series developed for Disney+ might go on to become films. This is of particular interest, as the most recent Star Wars trilogy will wrap up in cinemas next month with J.J. Abrams' The Rise of Skywalker, and Lucasfilm seems to now be putting ts focus and money on projects like Jon Favreau's pricey TV show,...
- 11/14/2019
- Den of Geek
It has been more than a month since Martin Scorsese compared Marvel movies to theme park rides and questioned their cinematic credentials, but the conversation started by his comments continues. Walt Disney Studios co-chairman and chief creative officer Alan Horn, who considers Scorsese a friend after working with him on “The Departed,” weighed in on the subject Wednesday at the Variety Business Managers Breakfast presented by City National Bank at the Montage Beverly Hills.
“This is America — anybody can say what he or she chooses to say,” Horn began. “If we are going to define the term motion picture, I would say we are certainly making them….when the director yells action people move around. To me…it’s a movie.”
Horn went on to address multiple big issues related to the media conglom, including yesterday’s launch of Disney Plus, which the company claimed Wednesday has accumulated 10 million subscribers in a single day.
“This is America — anybody can say what he or she chooses to say,” Horn began. “If we are going to define the term motion picture, I would say we are certainly making them….when the director yells action people move around. To me…it’s a movie.”
Horn went on to address multiple big issues related to the media conglom, including yesterday’s launch of Disney Plus, which the company claimed Wednesday has accumulated 10 million subscribers in a single day.
- 11/13/2019
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has hired seasoned journalist Adam B. Vary as senior entertainment writer to cover the business of genre storytelling and fandom across movies, television and streaming platforms.
Vary will write a weekly column as well as produce cover stories and inside features, break news on Variety.com, and contribute to Variety’s new video studio.
He will join Variety’s Los Angeles headquarters on Dec. 2.
“I could not be more excited to join Variety, and to work with Claudia Eller and her incredible team covering a time of extraordinary change in the entertainment industry,” Vary said.
For nearly seven years, Vary worked as a senior film reporter at BuzzFeed News, breaking news, writing business and investigative features on industry figures such as Kevin Spacey and Brad Renfro, longform profiles that included Chris Pratt, Joss Whedon, James Gunn, and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, retrospective stories on films like “Clue” and “A Christmas Story,...
Vary will write a weekly column as well as produce cover stories and inside features, break news on Variety.com, and contribute to Variety’s new video studio.
He will join Variety’s Los Angeles headquarters on Dec. 2.
“I could not be more excited to join Variety, and to work with Claudia Eller and her incredible team covering a time of extraordinary change in the entertainment industry,” Vary said.
For nearly seven years, Vary worked as a senior film reporter at BuzzFeed News, breaking news, writing business and investigative features on industry figures such as Kevin Spacey and Brad Renfro, longform profiles that included Chris Pratt, Joss Whedon, James Gunn, and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, retrospective stories on films like “Clue” and “A Christmas Story,...
- 11/12/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety and PBS SoCal have announced the actor lineup and schedule for Season 11 of “Variety Studio: Actors on Actors.”
All four episodes of the Emmy Award-winning series will premiere on PBS SoCal on Thursday, Jan. 2, starting at 8 p.m. The episodes will stream on the PBS Video app following their premieres.
This season will feature the following actor pairings and conversations: Brad Pitt with Adam Sandler (“Uncut Gems”); Jennifer Lopez (“Hustlers”) with Robert Pattinson (“The Lighthouse”); Tom Hanks (“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”) with Renée Zellweger (“Judy”); Antonio Banderas (“Pain and Glory”) with Eddie Murphy (“Dolemite Is My Name”); Adam Driver (“Marriage Story”) with Charlize Theron (“Bombshell”); Shia Labeouf (“Honey Boy”) with Kristen Stewart (“Seberg”); Mindy Kaling (“Late Night”) with Constance Wu (“Hustlers”); Chris Evans (“Knives Out”) with Scarlett Johansson (“Marriage Story”); Laura Dern (“Marriage Story”) with Sterling K. Brown (“Waves”); Beanie Feldstein (“Booksmart”) with Florence Pugh (“Little Women...
All four episodes of the Emmy Award-winning series will premiere on PBS SoCal on Thursday, Jan. 2, starting at 8 p.m. The episodes will stream on the PBS Video app following their premieres.
This season will feature the following actor pairings and conversations: Brad Pitt with Adam Sandler (“Uncut Gems”); Jennifer Lopez (“Hustlers”) with Robert Pattinson (“The Lighthouse”); Tom Hanks (“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”) with Renée Zellweger (“Judy”); Antonio Banderas (“Pain and Glory”) with Eddie Murphy (“Dolemite Is My Name”); Adam Driver (“Marriage Story”) with Charlize Theron (“Bombshell”); Shia Labeouf (“Honey Boy”) with Kristen Stewart (“Seberg”); Mindy Kaling (“Late Night”) with Constance Wu (“Hustlers”); Chris Evans (“Knives Out”) with Scarlett Johansson (“Marriage Story”); Laura Dern (“Marriage Story”) with Sterling K. Brown (“Waves”); Beanie Feldstein (“Booksmart”) with Florence Pugh (“Little Women...
- 11/8/2019
- by LaTesha Harris
- Variety Film + TV
Warner Bros. Entertainment marketing chief Blair Rich sat for a thoughtful and candid conversation about the ups and downs of an eventful year at her studio on Wednesday, when the executive was honored with Variety‘s first-ever Marketing Visionary Award.
At the inaugural Visionaries Breakfast, presented by Spotify at the Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood, Calif, Rich and the team she assembled for releases like “Joker,” “Shazaam,” “It: Chapter Two” and “Pokemon: Detective Pikachu” circulated with power players from fellow studios, agencies and the content space overall.
In a keynote conversation moderated by Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, Rich reflected on the tumultuous road to bring Todd Phillips’ smash hit “Joker” to screen — a brooding and bleak take on Batman’s most notorious foe. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, the film is expected to cross $1 billion at the worldwide box office this week and earn the distinction of becoming the highest-earning R-rated film of all time.
At the inaugural Visionaries Breakfast, presented by Spotify at the Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood, Calif, Rich and the team she assembled for releases like “Joker,” “Shazaam,” “It: Chapter Two” and “Pokemon: Detective Pikachu” circulated with power players from fellow studios, agencies and the content space overall.
In a keynote conversation moderated by Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, Rich reflected on the tumultuous road to bring Todd Phillips’ smash hit “Joker” to screen — a brooding and bleak take on Batman’s most notorious foe. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, the film is expected to cross $1 billion at the worldwide box office this week and earn the distinction of becoming the highest-earning R-rated film of all time.
- 11/7/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
When Jennifer Aniston was 11, she was casually dismissed from the dinner table by a parental figure “because I ‘didn’t have anything interesting to add to the conversation.’”
That belittlement has stayed with the “Friends” and “The Morning Show” star through to adulthood, prompting her to muse at Variety‘s Power of Women luncheon on the messages society sends to children — young girls in particular — about power and voice.
“It’s funny, I’ve never actually thought of myself as ‘powerful.’ Strong, yes. But powerful, not [really],” Aniston told hundreds of attendees. “It’s a distinction I’ve actually been thinking about a lot lately because that word — ‘power’ and its counterpart, ‘abuse of power’ — keeps coming up in light of what is happening in our country and in our industry, a rebalancing of the scales, I guess you could say.”
That theme resonated throughout the event at the Beverly Wilshire...
That belittlement has stayed with the “Friends” and “The Morning Show” star through to adulthood, prompting her to muse at Variety‘s Power of Women luncheon on the messages society sends to children — young girls in particular — about power and voice.
“It’s funny, I’ve never actually thought of myself as ‘powerful.’ Strong, yes. But powerful, not [really],” Aniston told hundreds of attendees. “It’s a distinction I’ve actually been thinking about a lot lately because that word — ‘power’ and its counterpart, ‘abuse of power’ — keeps coming up in light of what is happening in our country and in our industry, a rebalancing of the scales, I guess you could say.”
That theme resonated throughout the event at the Beverly Wilshire...
- 10/12/2019
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Variety will honor Jennifer Aniston, Awkwafina, Mariah Carey, Chaka Khan, Brie Larson and Dana Walden at the 2019 Power of Women Luncheon. Six hundred guests are invited to attend the event, which will take place Oct. 11 at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons.
Variety’s commitment to hiring more women for its cover shoots resulted in Peggy Sirota shooting this year’s Power of Women cover featuring the six honorees. The effort will lead to more women being hired for cover shoots throughout the year. This year’s Power of Women issue will contain a feature celebrating Lifetime Television’s 35th anniversary as well as the annual Women’s Impact Report, a report highlighting 50 women in the entertainment industry dedicated to making a lasting impact.
“Since its inception, Variety’s Power of Women has been a celebration of female empowerment, philanthropy and the commitment to progress being made by the professionals of our industry every day.
Variety’s commitment to hiring more women for its cover shoots resulted in Peggy Sirota shooting this year’s Power of Women cover featuring the six honorees. The effort will lead to more women being hired for cover shoots throughout the year. This year’s Power of Women issue will contain a feature celebrating Lifetime Television’s 35th anniversary as well as the annual Women’s Impact Report, a report highlighting 50 women in the entertainment industry dedicated to making a lasting impact.
“Since its inception, Variety’s Power of Women has been a celebration of female empowerment, philanthropy and the commitment to progress being made by the professionals of our industry every day.
- 9/18/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has decided to make a donation to Planned Parenthood in lieu of hosting this year’s annual Emmy Awards nominees party in partnership with Women In Film.
The decision comes in response to Planned Parenthood’s Aug. 19 announcement that it will drop funding over the current administration’s “unethical” rule blocking the organization from discussing its abortion services with patients.
Planned Parenthood, which has stood up to controversy, protests and violent attacks throughout its history, says it will fight what it calls the “unethical and dangerous gag rule” in court and refuses to be “bullied” into withholding abortion information from its patients.
“We are so grateful to Variety for its unwavering support of Planned Parenthood and commitment to sexual and reproductive health and rights,” said Caren Spruch, director, arts and entertainment engagement, Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that is the leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services,...
The decision comes in response to Planned Parenthood’s Aug. 19 announcement that it will drop funding over the current administration’s “unethical” rule blocking the organization from discussing its abortion services with patients.
Planned Parenthood, which has stood up to controversy, protests and violent attacks throughout its history, says it will fight what it calls the “unethical and dangerous gag rule” in court and refuses to be “bullied” into withholding abortion information from its patients.
“We are so grateful to Variety for its unwavering support of Planned Parenthood and commitment to sexual and reproductive health and rights,” said Caren Spruch, director, arts and entertainment engagement, Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that is the leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services,...
- 8/20/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has hired veteran entertainment journalist Kate Aurthur as editor-at-large.
Aurthur, who has worked as a top reporter and editor at BuzzFeed News, the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times, will be writing high-impact cover and feature stories about the industry for Variety‘s weekly magazine, as well as breaking news on Variety.com and contributing to video content. She’ll be covering major issues and business trends in TV, film and streaming as the consumption of content across all distribution platforms, including Netflix, Amazon and Apple, continues to reshape the media landscape. Aurthur will also write about diversity and inclusion in Hollywood both in front of and behind the camera, as well as profile prominent writers, directors, producers and actors and cover key festivals and events.
In addition, Aurthur will contribute to Variety franchises such as Actors on Actors, and will moderate keynote and panel conversations at...
Aurthur, who has worked as a top reporter and editor at BuzzFeed News, the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times, will be writing high-impact cover and feature stories about the industry for Variety‘s weekly magazine, as well as breaking news on Variety.com and contributing to video content. She’ll be covering major issues and business trends in TV, film and streaming as the consumption of content across all distribution platforms, including Netflix, Amazon and Apple, continues to reshape the media landscape. Aurthur will also write about diversity and inclusion in Hollywood both in front of and behind the camera, as well as profile prominent writers, directors, producers and actors and cover key festivals and events.
In addition, Aurthur will contribute to Variety franchises such as Actors on Actors, and will moderate keynote and panel conversations at...
- 7/9/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
New York City felt the full power of pride on Monday, as Variety celebrated its inaugural issue devoted to the annual recognition of Lgbtq people worldwide. At an intimate gathering at Mr. Purple, the rooftop bar at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side in Manhattan, Variety’s cover stars and luminaries gathered for cocktails and the unveiling of the pride class of 2019 — including Asia Kate Dillon, Jim Parsons, Don Lemon, Hannah Gadsby, Billy Eichner and Mj Rodriguez.
“At Variety, we are at the forefront of covering the Lgbt community and showcasing representation in the industry,” said Variety New York Bureau chief Ramin Setoodeh, noting that this years pride issue was packed with 45 pages of content. He credited Variety editor in chief Claudia Eller for coming up with the idea and championing the many stories in the issue.
Eichner, Parsons and Gadsby were among the inaugural Power of Pride cover stars high atop Lower Manhattan,...
“At Variety, we are at the forefront of covering the Lgbt community and showcasing representation in the industry,” said Variety New York Bureau chief Ramin Setoodeh, noting that this years pride issue was packed with 45 pages of content. He credited Variety editor in chief Claudia Eller for coming up with the idea and championing the many stories in the issue.
Eichner, Parsons and Gadsby were among the inaugural Power of Pride cover stars high atop Lower Manhattan,...
- 6/25/2019
- by Nate Nickolai and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Women are making strides toward parity in the film business but there’s much more progress to be made, panelists at the Kering Women in Motion talk said Saturday.
While women are gaining more visibility on-screen — 40% of movies were led or co-led by females in 2018, according to USC professor Stacy L. Smith – behind the scenes the figures are more dismal for women in key filmmaking roles. Marvel may have hired “The Rider” director Chloe Zhao for “The Eternals,” but overall, bigger-budgeted films are being helmed by men.
“When money moves in, women are pushed out. Women aren’t projected into leadership roles, and when they are, they are punished more harshly,” Smith said at the talk moderated by Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller.
The numbers are even more daunting for female minority directors. According to USC research released earlier this year, only seven of the 46 women working across the 1,200 most popular...
While women are gaining more visibility on-screen — 40% of movies were led or co-led by females in 2018, according to USC professor Stacy L. Smith – behind the scenes the figures are more dismal for women in key filmmaking roles. Marvel may have hired “The Rider” director Chloe Zhao for “The Eternals,” but overall, bigger-budgeted films are being helmed by men.
“When money moves in, women are pushed out. Women aren’t projected into leadership roles, and when they are, they are punished more harshly,” Smith said at the talk moderated by Variety editor-in-chief Claudia Eller.
The numbers are even more daunting for female minority directors. According to USC research released earlier this year, only seven of the 46 women working across the 1,200 most popular...
- 5/18/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Ann Curry spoke out on workplace harassment and what can be done to change the culture that has allowed the behavior to continue for decades. The former Today host and award-winning NBC News journalist sat down for a candid conversation with Variety co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller and “Chasing the Cure” executive producer and showrunner Kim Bondy at Variety’s Inclusion Diversity & Hollywood Summit at 1 Hotel West Hollywood on Thursday.
The trio discussed how the careers of victims have been derailed by standing up and speaking out about harassment in the workplace or how whistleblowers are often labeled as “troublemakers.”
For Curry, the next step is figuring out how to create safe and inclusive environments so that future generations don’t have to be concerned about workplace harassment and other “unacceptable” behaviors.
“What we have in place doesn’t work. Hr – sorry – doesn’t work. What you’re doing is not enough” Curry said frankly.
The trio discussed how the careers of victims have been derailed by standing up and speaking out about harassment in the workplace or how whistleblowers are often labeled as “troublemakers.”
For Curry, the next step is figuring out how to create safe and inclusive environments so that future generations don’t have to be concerned about workplace harassment and other “unacceptable” behaviors.
“What we have in place doesn’t work. Hr – sorry – doesn’t work. What you’re doing is not enough” Curry said frankly.
- 5/9/2019
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Entertainment law powerhouse Michael Gendler touched on a range of topics during a keynote conversation at Variety’s Power of Law breakfast presented by City National Bank held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on Wednesday, including the ongoing dispute between the Writers Guild and the major talent agencies.
Speaking with Variety‘s co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, Gendler said he does not believe the Guild and the agencies will reach an agreement by this Friday.
“It’s going to take compromise,” Gendler said. “People have criticized the guild for ratcheting things up and for awhile there, the dialogue felt like the national dialogue, which is a lot of name calling and people talking past each other. But in fairness to the Guild, I think the Guild did what it needed to do to get everybody’s attention, and not just the agents’ attention but its members’ attention. Having done that, it is...
Speaking with Variety‘s co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, Gendler said he does not believe the Guild and the agencies will reach an agreement by this Friday.
“It’s going to take compromise,” Gendler said. “People have criticized the guild for ratcheting things up and for awhile there, the dialogue felt like the national dialogue, which is a lot of name calling and people talking past each other. But in fairness to the Guild, I think the Guild did what it needed to do to get everybody’s attention, and not just the agents’ attention but its members’ attention. Having done that, it is...
- 4/10/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The honorees at Variety’s sixth annual Power of Women New York luncheon presented by Lifetime shared deeply personal stories that were variations on a powerful theme: Women overcoming obstacles, doubts, and naysayers to right wrongs, raise awareness, and bear witness to injustice.
“When a job needs to be done and nobody’s doing it, you step forward and you do it yourself,” said Bette Midler, one of five notable industry figures celebrated this year. “That’s what empowerment means to me.”
Midler was feted at Friday’s gathering at Cipriani Midtown for her role as the founder of New York Restoration Project, an organization that has worked to create a “cleaner and greener” New York City since 1995.
Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s chief international correspondent, was recognized for her work with the Committee to Project Journalists. Supermodel Gigi Hadid put the spotlight on Unicef. Actress Taraji P. Henson addressed the...
“When a job needs to be done and nobody’s doing it, you step forward and you do it yourself,” said Bette Midler, one of five notable industry figures celebrated this year. “That’s what empowerment means to me.”
Midler was feted at Friday’s gathering at Cipriani Midtown for her role as the founder of New York Restoration Project, an organization that has worked to create a “cleaner and greener” New York City since 1995.
Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s chief international correspondent, was recognized for her work with the Committee to Project Journalists. Supermodel Gigi Hadid put the spotlight on Unicef. Actress Taraji P. Henson addressed the...
- 4/5/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Eric Roth, who won an Academy Award a quarter century ago for “Forrest Gump,” went even further back when he was working with Lady Gaga on “A Star Is Born.”
Roth, speaking at the Beyond Words panel at the Writers Guild Theater, recalled that he advised Gaga to emulate Cher’s Loretta Castorini from the 1987 Oscar winner “Moonstruck.”
“I came aboard about the same time Lady Gaga did,” Roth said. “She asked me what she might look at because she’s not an actress by trade. She said, ‘What can I learn from?’ I said, ‘Look at Cher in ‘Moonstruck.’ She’s strong, so sure of herself, kind of tough minded.'”
He also said he and Bradley Cooper made the decision to write a script that would seem improvisational to moviegoers — a major change for Roth, who also received Oscar noms for “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Munich,...
Roth, speaking at the Beyond Words panel at the Writers Guild Theater, recalled that he advised Gaga to emulate Cher’s Loretta Castorini from the 1987 Oscar winner “Moonstruck.”
“I came aboard about the same time Lady Gaga did,” Roth said. “She asked me what she might look at because she’s not an actress by trade. She said, ‘What can I learn from?’ I said, ‘Look at Cher in ‘Moonstruck.’ She’s strong, so sure of herself, kind of tough minded.'”
He also said he and Bradley Cooper made the decision to write a script that would seem improvisational to moviegoers — a major change for Roth, who also received Oscar noms for “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Munich,...
- 2/8/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Variety will honor actress Emily Blunt at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on Friday, Jan. 4 as part of their annual brunch with the festival at the Parker Palm Springs. The brunch is presented by At&T.
The “Mary Poppins Returns” star will receive the annual Creative Impact in Acting Award. Previous recipients of this award have included Daniel Kaluuya, Charlize Theron, Mark Wahlberg, and Steve Carell. The award celebrates Blunt’s year in film between her supporting role in “A Quiet Place” and her starring role in Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns.” Emily has received SAG nominations for both roles and a Golden Globe nomination for “Mary Poppins Returns.”
“No actor has had a bigger year than Emily Blunt in 2018,” said Variety co-editor-in-chief, Claudia Eller. “From playing a mother fighting to save her family’s life in ‘A Quiet Place’ to tackling one of cinema’s iconic characters in the musical ‘Mary Poppins Returns,...
The “Mary Poppins Returns” star will receive the annual Creative Impact in Acting Award. Previous recipients of this award have included Daniel Kaluuya, Charlize Theron, Mark Wahlberg, and Steve Carell. The award celebrates Blunt’s year in film between her supporting role in “A Quiet Place” and her starring role in Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns.” Emily has received SAG nominations for both roles and a Golden Globe nomination for “Mary Poppins Returns.”
“No actor has had a bigger year than Emily Blunt in 2018,” said Variety co-editor-in-chief, Claudia Eller. “From playing a mother fighting to save her family’s life in ‘A Quiet Place’ to tackling one of cinema’s iconic characters in the musical ‘Mary Poppins Returns,...
- 12/31/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety will honor director Ryan Coogler at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on Jan. 4th as part of the annual 10 Directors to Watch Brunch at the Parker Palm Springs. The brunch is presented by At&T.
The “Black Panther” director will receive the annual creative impact in directing award. Previous recipients of this award have included Patty Jenkins, David O. Russell, Charlie Kaufman, Jeff Nichols, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. The award celebrates his career, from his groundbreaking first feature “Fruitvale Station,” to his most recent work directing ‘Black Panther,” which was recently named one of AFI’s Best Films of the Year and is nominated for a Golden Globe for best motion picture – drama.
“Ryan Coogler has directed one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful films of the year with ‘Black Panther,’” said Variety co-editor in chief, Claudia Eller. “The film’s cultural significance is matched by its...
The “Black Panther” director will receive the annual creative impact in directing award. Previous recipients of this award have included Patty Jenkins, David O. Russell, Charlie Kaufman, Jeff Nichols, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. The award celebrates his career, from his groundbreaking first feature “Fruitvale Station,” to his most recent work directing ‘Black Panther,” which was recently named one of AFI’s Best Films of the Year and is nominated for a Golden Globe for best motion picture – drama.
“Ryan Coogler has directed one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful films of the year with ‘Black Panther,’” said Variety co-editor in chief, Claudia Eller. “The film’s cultural significance is matched by its...
- 12/10/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Rumors of Ted Sarandos’ feud with movie theater owners are greatly exaggerated, according to Netflix’s chief content officer.
As he told the crowd Thursday at Variety‘s annual Dealmakers breakfast at the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills, he can often be found at his local multiplex, redeeming tickets he bought himself.
“Who I never run into there are studio executives and directors,” Sarandos said, earning laughs from attendees including executives, lawyers and, yes, studio heads.
Sarandos was honored as Variety’s dealmaker of the year, having lured top drawer creators like Ryan Murphy, Shonda Rhimes and Kenya Barris to his streaming service with rich overall agreements. He sat for a wide-ranging conversation with Variety co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, in which he pondered how odd it was that his monolithic entertainment company is no longer the wave maker in the shifting new media universe.
“I’m in a very weird spot...
As he told the crowd Thursday at Variety‘s annual Dealmakers breakfast at the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills, he can often be found at his local multiplex, redeeming tickets he bought himself.
“Who I never run into there are studio executives and directors,” Sarandos said, earning laughs from attendees including executives, lawyers and, yes, studio heads.
Sarandos was honored as Variety’s dealmaker of the year, having lured top drawer creators like Ryan Murphy, Shonda Rhimes and Kenya Barris to his streaming service with rich overall agreements. He sat for a wide-ranging conversation with Variety co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller, in which he pondered how odd it was that his monolithic entertainment company is no longer the wave maker in the shifting new media universe.
“I’m in a very weird spot...
- 12/6/2018
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Daniel Holloway, Variety’s senior TV writer, is being promoted to Executive Editor, TV. He will assume his new role on Nov. 26.
Holloway is succeeding Debra Birnbaum — who’s been tapped as director of awards at Amazon — and will lead the publication’s team of TV writers, editors, and critics in Los Angeles and New York. He will be responsible for shaping the daily and weekly TV coverage for print and online and set and implement Variety’s overall TV strategy.
He will also put his own imprint on Variety’s TV podcast, “Remote Controlled.”
Holloway will report directly to Variety co-Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller.
“Dan has proven himself to be a major star here at Variety and was the natural choice to take on the leadership of our great TV team,” says Eller. “Given his smarts, drive, and deep knowledge of the industry, Dan will be a phenomenal manager, mentor,...
Holloway is succeeding Debra Birnbaum — who’s been tapped as director of awards at Amazon — and will lead the publication’s team of TV writers, editors, and critics in Los Angeles and New York. He will be responsible for shaping the daily and weekly TV coverage for print and online and set and implement Variety’s overall TV strategy.
He will also put his own imprint on Variety’s TV podcast, “Remote Controlled.”
Holloway will report directly to Variety co-Editor-in-Chief Claudia Eller.
“Dan has proven himself to be a major star here at Variety and was the natural choice to take on the leadership of our great TV team,” says Eller. “Given his smarts, drive, and deep knowledge of the industry, Dan will be a phenomenal manager, mentor,...
- 11/7/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety Executive Editor Debra Birnbaum will be leaving her post of four and a half years to join Amazon as director of awards. Her last day at Variety will be Nov. 23.
Birnbaum has led Variety’s TV team and coverage since joining the news organization in 2014, serving both as editor and writer of some of the publication’s strongest cover stories, including her recent profile of Robin Wright and her takeover of “House of Cards.”
Along with her many newsroom and managerial duties, Birnbaum has overseen Variety’s annual TV awards coverage and gold standard Emmy standalones. She has also moderated numerous industry panels with top talent and led the charge on Variety’s award-winning TV Actors on Actors series.
“We will sorely miss Debra and all of the enormous contributions she has made to our organization—both from an editorial and business perspective,” says Claudia Eller and Andrew Wallenstein,...
Birnbaum has led Variety’s TV team and coverage since joining the news organization in 2014, serving both as editor and writer of some of the publication’s strongest cover stories, including her recent profile of Robin Wright and her takeover of “House of Cards.”
Along with her many newsroom and managerial duties, Birnbaum has overseen Variety’s annual TV awards coverage and gold standard Emmy standalones. She has also moderated numerous industry panels with top talent and led the charge on Variety’s award-winning TV Actors on Actors series.
“We will sorely miss Debra and all of the enormous contributions she has made to our organization—both from an editorial and business perspective,” says Claudia Eller and Andrew Wallenstein,...
- 11/5/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety and Rolling Stone will co-host their first-ever Criminal Justice Reform Summit next month in Los Angeles.
Featuring CNN host and activist Van Jones, as well as Kim Kardashian West and hip-hop artist Meek Mill, the Nov. 14 event will bring together the entertainment, philanthropic, advocacy and policymaking communities to drive criminal justice reform.
Jones will keynote the conference by talking about the failings of the American criminal justice system with Kardashian West, who recently began leveraging her celebrity platform to advocate for prison reform with D.C.’s top policymakers. Notably, she aided in the early release of Alice Marie Johnson, a first-time nonviolent drug offender who spent 21 years in prison, after meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House.
“Not only do we face a mass incarceration problem in the United States, but almost 60 percent of inmates currently in prison or jail are racial and ethnic minorities,” said Jones,...
Featuring CNN host and activist Van Jones, as well as Kim Kardashian West and hip-hop artist Meek Mill, the Nov. 14 event will bring together the entertainment, philanthropic, advocacy and policymaking communities to drive criminal justice reform.
Jones will keynote the conference by talking about the failings of the American criminal justice system with Kardashian West, who recently began leveraging her celebrity platform to advocate for prison reform with D.C.’s top policymakers. Notably, she aided in the early release of Alice Marie Johnson, a first-time nonviolent drug offender who spent 21 years in prison, after meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House.
“Not only do we face a mass incarceration problem in the United States, but almost 60 percent of inmates currently in prison or jail are racial and ethnic minorities,” said Jones,...
- 10/26/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Kim Kardashian, Meek Mill and Alicia Keys will be among the speakers at the upcoming Criminal Justice Reform Summit co-hosted by Rolling Stone and Variety. The event, featuring a keynote address and conversation with activist Van Jones, will take place November 14th at Los Angeles’ Jeremy Hotel.
The summit aims to join together the entertainment, philanthropic, advocacy and policymaking communities and harness the power of entertainment to drive criminal justice reform. It will feature panel discussions about the importance of sharing the stories of former inmates, the ways in which...
The summit aims to join together the entertainment, philanthropic, advocacy and policymaking communities and harness the power of entertainment to drive criminal justice reform. It will feature panel discussions about the importance of sharing the stories of former inmates, the ways in which...
- 10/25/2018
- by Rolling Stone
- Rollingstone.com
Variety has hired entertainment journalist Matt Donnelly as a senior film writer.
Donnelly, who most recently served as a senior reporter for The Wrap, will cover the major studios, the indie film market and the talent agencies. He will be based at Variety’s Los Angeles headquarters.
Donnelly joins Variety’s sterling team of writers and editors both in Los Angeles and New York.
He will report directly to Brent Lang, executive editor of film and media.
“I’m thrilled that instead of having to compete against Matt for scoops, we’ll now have him as part of the Variety family,” said Lang. “I’ve been a long-time fan of his work, and appreciate the energy and drive he brings to the beat. Matt is a thoughtful and witty writer who will be a great addition to our staff.”
Donnelly will be responsible for producing breaking industry news and analysis for Variety.
Donnelly, who most recently served as a senior reporter for The Wrap, will cover the major studios, the indie film market and the talent agencies. He will be based at Variety’s Los Angeles headquarters.
Donnelly joins Variety’s sterling team of writers and editors both in Los Angeles and New York.
He will report directly to Brent Lang, executive editor of film and media.
“I’m thrilled that instead of having to compete against Matt for scoops, we’ll now have him as part of the Variety family,” said Lang. “I’ve been a long-time fan of his work, and appreciate the energy and drive he brings to the beat. Matt is a thoughtful and witty writer who will be a great addition to our staff.”
Donnelly will be responsible for producing breaking industry news and analysis for Variety.
- 9/24/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
It’s been two years since #OscarsSoWhite shook up Hollywood with the call for greater diversity in Hollywood, particularly at the Academy Awards.
“We are seeing an improvement,” Steve McQueen said at the Variety and At&T Toronto International Film Festival party for his new action-thriller “Widows.” “We haven’t gone far enough, but hey, I hope we stick to the cause and get things done.”
McQueen was joined at the party, held at Momofuku, by his cast including Viola Davis (who appears on the current cover of Variety), Cynthia Erivo, Liam Neeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Elizabeth Debicki, Daniel Kaluuya, Robert Duvall and Michelle Rodriguez as well as co-screenwriter Gillian Flynn.
Variety co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller praised Davis, who appears on the current cover of the magazine. “I think everyone in this room would agree that your talent is unsurpassed,” Eller said. “You’re a triple-threat. You’ve won Oscars, you’ve won Emmys,...
“We are seeing an improvement,” Steve McQueen said at the Variety and At&T Toronto International Film Festival party for his new action-thriller “Widows.” “We haven’t gone far enough, but hey, I hope we stick to the cause and get things done.”
McQueen was joined at the party, held at Momofuku, by his cast including Viola Davis (who appears on the current cover of Variety), Cynthia Erivo, Liam Neeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Elizabeth Debicki, Daniel Kaluuya, Robert Duvall and Michelle Rodriguez as well as co-screenwriter Gillian Flynn.
Variety co-editor-in-chief Claudia Eller praised Davis, who appears on the current cover of the magazine. “I think everyone in this room would agree that your talent is unsurpassed,” Eller said. “You’re a triple-threat. You’ve won Oscars, you’ve won Emmys,...
- 9/9/2018
- by Marc Malkin and Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
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