Director and producer Kevin Shulman was awarded $1.9 million after a jury found that he was cheated out of a producer credit in Manson family murders movie Charlie Says.
The decision by the jury in Los Angeles County, which came on Feb. 9 after less than a day of deliberations, included $1 million in punitive damages for fraud. The case is one of the few business disputes concerning producer titles that have gone to trial, with most being resolved in arbitration or settling, and could inform the valuation of such posts in future legal battles.
The jury concluded that Kevin Shulman’s contract was breached when he was blindsided by an eleventh-hour deal reducing his role to co-producer and fee to $15,000 after working on the movie for eight years, including when he was undergoing treatment for cancer. Damages were calculated, in part, by determining work that would’ve come his way if he...
The decision by the jury in Los Angeles County, which came on Feb. 9 after less than a day of deliberations, included $1 million in punitive damages for fraud. The case is one of the few business disputes concerning producer titles that have gone to trial, with most being resolved in arbitration or settling, and could inform the valuation of such posts in future legal battles.
The jury concluded that Kevin Shulman’s contract was breached when he was blindsided by an eleventh-hour deal reducing his role to co-producer and fee to $15,000 after working on the movie for eight years, including when he was undergoing treatment for cancer. Damages were calculated, in part, by determining work that would’ve come his way if he...
- 2/27/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The search for a new chief executive officer at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has escalated in recent weeks, multiple sources familiar with the process tell Variety.
Months ago, the organization behind the Oscars hired management consulting firm Korn Ferry to scout replacements for outgoing CEO Dawn Hudson, who previously announced she would step down by May 2023. Insiders close to AMPAS say she could depart sooner if her position is filled. Korn Ferry, known for identifying board members and C-suite executives for global corporations, has been reaching out to a number of qualified candidates of late.
Names being floated for the role include insider Bill Kramer, director and president of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures; David White, the former executive director of SAG-AFTRA who stepped down last May after 12 years at the guild; and Keri Putnam, the former longtime Sundance CEO whose institutional knowledge of nonprofits...
Months ago, the organization behind the Oscars hired management consulting firm Korn Ferry to scout replacements for outgoing CEO Dawn Hudson, who previously announced she would step down by May 2023. Insiders close to AMPAS say she could depart sooner if her position is filled. Korn Ferry, known for identifying board members and C-suite executives for global corporations, has been reaching out to a number of qualified candidates of late.
Names being floated for the role include insider Bill Kramer, director and president of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures; David White, the former executive director of SAG-AFTRA who stepped down last May after 12 years at the guild; and Keri Putnam, the former longtime Sundance CEO whose institutional knowledge of nonprofits...
- 5/3/2022
- by Matt Donnelly and Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
There’s a new union in town: the Producers Union, which is the first all-new Hollywood labor union to be formed in decades.
More than 100 indie feature filmmakers have unanimously ratified its constitution, and more than 300 have signed letters of intent to join. “After decades of working without basic protections, low and/or inconsistent wages, no employer healthcare contributions and an industry insistence that they should work for free to demonstrate their commitment, film producers are taking a stand,” organizers said in a statement.
The Producers Union website launches today.
Rebecca Green is the new union’s first president. Green, whose producing credits include It Follows and I’ll See You in My Dreams, is the founder and editor-in-chief of Dear Producer, a website designed “to challenge archaic business models that stifle diverse and original voices and to advocate for innovation, transparency, and fiscal responsibility from our industry.”
She teamed up...
More than 100 indie feature filmmakers have unanimously ratified its constitution, and more than 300 have signed letters of intent to join. “After decades of working without basic protections, low and/or inconsistent wages, no employer healthcare contributions and an industry insistence that they should work for free to demonstrate their commitment, film producers are taking a stand,” organizers said in a statement.
The Producers Union website launches today.
Rebecca Green is the new union’s first president. Green, whose producing credits include It Follows and I’ll See You in My Dreams, is the founder and editor-in-chief of Dear Producer, a website designed “to challenge archaic business models that stifle diverse and original voices and to advocate for innovation, transparency, and fiscal responsibility from our industry.”
She teamed up...
- 5/20/2021
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Los Angeles, March 25 (Ians) Chloe Zhaos Nomadland continued its impressive run at this years award ceremonies with the American drama picking up the Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures at the 32nd annual Producers Guild of America (PGA) Awards.
The victory comes right after the film's impressive run through the movie awards season.
Nomadland won awards at the Golden Globe and the Critics Choice Awards at the Wednesday night award ceremony. It is also up for six Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director, Adapted Screenplay and Best Editing.
Nomadland is looking to become the 22nd film in 32 years to win the PGA and the Best Picture Oscar.
Other winners declared at the 87-minute-long virtual ceremony included the Oscar-nominated film Soul in the Animated Film category.
Schitt's Creek in the Danny Thomas Award for Outstanding Producer of Episodic Television - Comedy category. The Crown for the...
The victory comes right after the film's impressive run through the movie awards season.
Nomadland won awards at the Golden Globe and the Critics Choice Awards at the Wednesday night award ceremony. It is also up for six Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director, Adapted Screenplay and Best Editing.
Nomadland is looking to become the 22nd film in 32 years to win the PGA and the Best Picture Oscar.
Other winners declared at the 87-minute-long virtual ceremony included the Oscar-nominated film Soul in the Animated Film category.
Schitt's Creek in the Danny Thomas Award for Outstanding Producer of Episodic Television - Comedy category. The Crown for the...
- 3/25/2021
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
At the 32nd annual Producers Guild Awards on Wednesday, outgoing National Executive Director Vance Van Petten was presented with the Charles Fitzsimons Award.
Appearing (virtually) to present Van Petten with the Honorary Lifetime Membership Award was former PGA President Mark Gordon.
In his acceptance speech, Van Petten praised Gordon, who to him, epitomizes “just what it means” to be a producer.
“It’s extra special to receive this award for doing something I love doing: representing producers. I was lucky enough to be in that room when this award was first created and named, and look at me now,” he said. “It’s been 20 years of service. So, what took you so long?”
Of course, the latter sentiment expressed by Van Petten was all in jest. “I’m kidding,” he said, “because I’ve never thought of it as service.”
He then went on to salute all of his fellow producers,...
Appearing (virtually) to present Van Petten with the Honorary Lifetime Membership Award was former PGA President Mark Gordon.
In his acceptance speech, Van Petten praised Gordon, who to him, epitomizes “just what it means” to be a producer.
“It’s extra special to receive this award for doing something I love doing: representing producers. I was lucky enough to be in that room when this award was first created and named, and look at me now,” he said. “It’s been 20 years of service. So, what took you so long?”
Of course, the latter sentiment expressed by Van Petten was all in jest. “I’m kidding,” he said, “because I’ve never thought of it as service.”
He then went on to salute all of his fellow producers,...
- 3/25/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Producers Guild leaders won’t be hosting their annual awards show in person as hoped mid-pandemic. Instead, they promise a virtual event on March 24 that will give members a chance to celebrate their accomplishments following a year marked by production stoppages and a shattered theatrical marketplace.
“We’re hoping it will be an efficient awards show that has heart,” says Susan Sprung, national executive director of the guild.
The silver lining: “Every year we sell out, and thousands of members are upset that they can’t be in the room and can’t experience it,” she points out. “This year everyone can be there virtually.”
Guild organizers opted to forego annual honorary awards this year, believing those best celebrated in person, and plan to resume them next year. It opted to continue its annual Saturday programming with virtual sessions for PGA nominees; sessions for documentaries and non-fiction programming were added this year.
“We’re hoping it will be an efficient awards show that has heart,” says Susan Sprung, national executive director of the guild.
The silver lining: “Every year we sell out, and thousands of members are upset that they can’t be in the room and can’t experience it,” she points out. “This year everyone can be there virtually.”
Guild organizers opted to forego annual honorary awards this year, believing those best celebrated in person, and plan to resume them next year. It opted to continue its annual Saturday programming with virtual sessions for PGA nominees; sessions for documentaries and non-fiction programming were added this year.
- 3/24/2021
- by Diane Garrett
- Variety Film + TV
Producers Guild of America national executive director Vance Van Petten is set to step down in mid-2021.
Susan Sprung, who was promoted to national executive director alongside Van Petten in April 2019, will take over all national executive director duties when Van Petten exits after 21 years at the helm. He joined the PGA in January 2000.
“We are incredibly grateful for Vance’s leadership, dedication and devotion to the work of the producing profession. His work on key initiatives like the Producers Mark will leave an indelible impact not just on the PGA and our membership, but for the producing ...
Susan Sprung, who was promoted to national executive director alongside Van Petten in April 2019, will take over all national executive director duties when Van Petten exits after 21 years at the helm. He joined the PGA in January 2000.
“We are incredibly grateful for Vance’s leadership, dedication and devotion to the work of the producing profession. His work on key initiatives like the Producers Mark will leave an indelible impact not just on the PGA and our membership, but for the producing ...
Producers Guild of America national executive director Vance Van Petten is set to step down in mid-2021.
Susan Sprung, who was promoted to national executive director alongside Van Petten in April 2019, will take over all national executive director duties when Van Petten exits after 21 years at the helm. He joined the PGA in January 2000.
“We are incredibly grateful for Vance’s leadership, dedication and devotion to the work of the producing profession. His work on key initiatives like the Producers Mark will leave an indelible impact not just on the PGA and our membership, but for the producing ...
Susan Sprung, who was promoted to national executive director alongside Van Petten in April 2019, will take over all national executive director duties when Van Petten exits after 21 years at the helm. He joined the PGA in January 2000.
“We are incredibly grateful for Vance’s leadership, dedication and devotion to the work of the producing profession. His work on key initiatives like the Producers Mark will leave an indelible impact not just on the PGA and our membership, but for the producing ...
Dorothea G. Petrie, who won Emmys for producing “Love Is Never Silent” and ‘Caroline?,” died peacefully at her home in Los Angeles on Tuesday, her family announced. She was 95.
Petrie began her career in New York as an actress and talent agent before putting it on hold to raise four children. She ended her hiatus in 1979 by writing the story for, and producing, the CBS film “Orphan Train,” starring Jill Eikenberry. She went on to produce “Angel Dusted” starring Jean Stapleton for NBC, “License to Kill” with Denzel Washington for CBS and “Picking Up the Pieces” starring Margot Kidder for CBS.
In 1986, she won an Emmy for producing NBC’s Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation “Love is Never Silent,” which also won an Emmy for director Joseph Sargent and nominations for stars Mare Winningham and Phillis Frelich. Petrie next produced “Foxfire,” the eight-time Emmy nominated film for Hallmark and CBS.
Petrie began her career in New York as an actress and talent agent before putting it on hold to raise four children. She ended her hiatus in 1979 by writing the story for, and producing, the CBS film “Orphan Train,” starring Jill Eikenberry. She went on to produce “Angel Dusted” starring Jean Stapleton for NBC, “License to Kill” with Denzel Washington for CBS and “Picking Up the Pieces” starring Margot Kidder for CBS.
In 1986, she won an Emmy for producing NBC’s Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation “Love is Never Silent,” which also won an Emmy for director Joseph Sargent and nominations for stars Mare Winningham and Phillis Frelich. Petrie next produced “Foxfire,” the eight-time Emmy nominated film for Hallmark and CBS.
- 11/26/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Dorothea G. Petrie, who won an Emmy award for the Hallmark drama Love is Never Silent, died at her home in Los Angeles on Tuesday, November 24 at age 95. Her family confirmed the death, which they said was by natural causes.
Petrie began her career in New York as an actress and talent agent before putting it on hold to raise four children. She ended her hiatus in 1979 by writing the story and producing the CBS film Orphan Train, starring Jill Eikenberry. She went on to produce Angel Dusted starring Jean Stapleton for NBC, License to Kill with a young Denzel Washington for CBS, and Picking Up the Pieces starring Margot Kidder for CBS.
In 1986, she won an Emmy for producing NBC’s Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation Love is Never Silent, which also won an Emmy for director Joseph Sargent and nominations for stars Mare Winningham and Phillis Frelich. Petrie next produced Foxfire,...
Petrie began her career in New York as an actress and talent agent before putting it on hold to raise four children. She ended her hiatus in 1979 by writing the story and producing the CBS film Orphan Train, starring Jill Eikenberry. She went on to produce Angel Dusted starring Jean Stapleton for NBC, License to Kill with a young Denzel Washington for CBS, and Picking Up the Pieces starring Margot Kidder for CBS.
In 1986, she won an Emmy for producing NBC’s Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation Love is Never Silent, which also won an Emmy for director Joseph Sargent and nominations for stars Mare Winningham and Phillis Frelich. Petrie next produced Foxfire,...
- 11/26/2020
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Michelle Byrd has been named associate national executive director of the Producers Guild of America. She’d previously been the PGA East’s managing director, and will remain based in New York. In her new role, the guild said, she’ll assist the PGA leadership’s “expansion, reach, vision and operations of the guild and its key programs.”
The guild said its current priorities include its ongoing efforts “to create standard protocols for productions during Covid-19; increasing diversity in membership through One Guild, as well as creating new programming and educational initiatives that serve this goal; the Producers Mark; green production initiatives; the annual PGA Awards; and the PGA Foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative.”
“It is a privilege,” Byrd said, “to work closely with the guild’s national leadership, presidents Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, and national executive directors Susan Sprung and Vance Van Petten, to bring a fresh...
The guild said its current priorities include its ongoing efforts “to create standard protocols for productions during Covid-19; increasing diversity in membership through One Guild, as well as creating new programming and educational initiatives that serve this goal; the Producers Mark; green production initiatives; the annual PGA Awards; and the PGA Foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative.”
“It is a privilege,” Byrd said, “to work closely with the guild’s national leadership, presidents Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, and national executive directors Susan Sprung and Vance Van Petten, to bring a fresh...
- 6/23/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Byrd previously served as managing director, PGA East.
Independent world veteran Michelle Byrd has been promoted to associate national executive director at the Producers Guild Of America (PGA).
Byrd previously served as managing director, PGA East and in her new post will work alongside national executive directors Susan Sprung and Vance Van Petten to lead the expansion, reach, vision and operations of the Guild and its key programmes.
Current priorities include the Guild’s efforts to create standard protocols for productions during the pandemic, increase diversity in membership through One Guild and create new programming and educational initiatives to serve...
Independent world veteran Michelle Byrd has been promoted to associate national executive director at the Producers Guild Of America (PGA).
Byrd previously served as managing director, PGA East and in her new post will work alongside national executive directors Susan Sprung and Vance Van Petten to lead the expansion, reach, vision and operations of the Guild and its key programmes.
Current priorities include the Guild’s efforts to create standard protocols for productions during the pandemic, increase diversity in membership through One Guild and create new programming and educational initiatives to serve...
- 6/23/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Actor Vin Diesel has been mired in a years-long struggle for an illustrious credit from the Producers Guild of America for his contributions to the billion-dollar “Fast and Furious” movie franchise, numerous sources tell Variety.
A cryptic Sunday night Instagram post from Diesel about “mitigating a war” with the PGA, a trade association representing film and TV producers, was only the latest round in a fight that has ensnared the likes of NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer and added to a long history of family drama in the high-flying action films.
The struggle boils down to Diesel’s desire for the Producers Guild of America’s mark of distinction, an addendum to a film credit that signifies to the industry and audiences that a producer has been verified as a substantial contributor in the making of a movie.
Diesel has attempted to receive the mark for nearly every film in the “Fast” series,...
A cryptic Sunday night Instagram post from Diesel about “mitigating a war” with the PGA, a trade association representing film and TV producers, was only the latest round in a fight that has ensnared the likes of NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer and added to a long history of family drama in the high-flying action films.
The struggle boils down to Diesel’s desire for the Producers Guild of America’s mark of distinction, an addendum to a film credit that signifies to the industry and audiences that a producer has been verified as a substantial contributor in the making of a movie.
Diesel has attempted to receive the mark for nearly every film in the “Fast” series,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
It was a rainy night in Hollywood, but no spirits were dampened at the Producers Guild of America’s West Coast Celebration of PGA Award nominated producing teams.
Held at the Hollywood Museum and bathed in the soft glow of Mel’s Diner’s neon lights, hundreds of guests snaked through four full levels of entertainment industry memorabilia – the multiple displays featuring costumes from the Pointer Sisters are not to be missed – while enjoying their choice open bars and wide-variety of hors d’oeuvres.
Deep inside the Max Factor building, even queuing for the elevator was more genial than at typical gatherings, in no small part due to the working bar housed inside – first introduced by Max Factor on the opening night of his Make-Up studio in 1935.
But for as comfortable as it was to lounge amidst Hollywood’s past, the evening was much more concerned about looking ahead towards the industry’s bright future.
Held at the Hollywood Museum and bathed in the soft glow of Mel’s Diner’s neon lights, hundreds of guests snaked through four full levels of entertainment industry memorabilia – the multiple displays featuring costumes from the Pointer Sisters are not to be missed – while enjoying their choice open bars and wide-variety of hors d’oeuvres.
Deep inside the Max Factor building, even queuing for the elevator was more genial than at typical gatherings, in no small part due to the working bar housed inside – first introduced by Max Factor on the opening night of his Make-Up studio in 1935.
But for as comfortable as it was to lounge amidst Hollywood’s past, the evening was much more concerned about looking ahead towards the industry’s bright future.
- 1/17/2020
- by Libby Hill
- Indiewire
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) is promoting Susan Sprung to the roles of national executive director and chief operating officer, the guild announced Thursday.
Sprung and executive director/COO Vance Van Petten will co-lead the expansion of the guild’s major initiatives, including its diversity and green production initiatives, Producers Mark, the PGA Awards, and the bi-annual Produced By Conference. She’ll also co-lead the Foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative, which received a grant from CBS last fall to combat sexual harassment on independent film, television, and digital productions.
Sprung has served as associate national executive director for the PGA since 2012 and has been COO since 2016.
Also Read: 'Green Book' Wins Producers Guild Award, Becomes Oscars Frontrunner
Previously, Sprung served as Special Counsel at the law firm of O’Melveny and Myers in Los Angeles. Prior to that, she was Corporate Counsel at Trizec Hahn in Los...
Sprung and executive director/COO Vance Van Petten will co-lead the expansion of the guild’s major initiatives, including its diversity and green production initiatives, Producers Mark, the PGA Awards, and the bi-annual Produced By Conference. She’ll also co-lead the Foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative, which received a grant from CBS last fall to combat sexual harassment on independent film, television, and digital productions.
Sprung has served as associate national executive director for the PGA since 2012 and has been COO since 2016.
Also Read: 'Green Book' Wins Producers Guild Award, Becomes Oscars Frontrunner
Previously, Sprung served as Special Counsel at the law firm of O’Melveny and Myers in Los Angeles. Prior to that, she was Corporate Counsel at Trizec Hahn in Los...
- 4/25/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The Producers Guild of America has promoted Susan Sprung to the role of National Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer. Sprung has served as Associate National Executive Director since 2012 and COO since 2016.
In the new role, she will join Executive Director Vance Van Petten in co-leading the expansion, reach, vision and operations of the organization and key programs. This includes initiatives like the Producers Mark, diversity and green production, the annual PGA Awards and the biannual Produced By Conference. The pair will also oversee the foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative, which received a grant from CBS last fall to combat sexual harassment on independent film, TV and digital productions.
“Joining Vance as the National Executive Director and COO of the PGA is a tremendous honor for me,” said Sprung. “This is a period of growth for the PGA as our industry confronts dramatic changes and welcomes exciting opportunities. I...
In the new role, she will join Executive Director Vance Van Petten in co-leading the expansion, reach, vision and operations of the organization and key programs. This includes initiatives like the Producers Mark, diversity and green production, the annual PGA Awards and the biannual Produced By Conference. The pair will also oversee the foundation’s Independent Production Safety Initiative, which received a grant from CBS last fall to combat sexual harassment on independent film, TV and digital productions.
“Joining Vance as the National Executive Director and COO of the PGA is a tremendous honor for me,” said Sprung. “This is a period of growth for the PGA as our industry confronts dramatic changes and welcomes exciting opportunities. I...
- 4/25/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Disgraced mogul Harvey Weinstein, who is facing possible expulsion from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Saturday, could also find his membership in the Producers Guild of America revoked before that day is over.
PGA national executive director Vance Van Petten has sent out an email on behalf of PGA presidents Gary Lucchesi and Lori McCreary calling for a special meeting of the PGA’s national board of directors on Saturday to address the Weinstein situation and “to discuss urgent Guild business and Vote on appropriate course of action.”
Earlier that same day, the Academy, which has already...
PGA national executive director Vance Van Petten has sent out an email on behalf of PGA presidents Gary Lucchesi and Lori McCreary calling for a special meeting of the PGA’s national board of directors on Saturday to address the Weinstein situation and “to discuss urgent Guild business and Vote on appropriate course of action.”
Earlier that same day, the Academy, which has already...
- 10/13/2017
- by Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Former Ifp executive director will operate from New York offices.
Michelle Byrd has been hired as managing director of PGA East and will oversee operations from the New York office.
The appointment follows an executive search by PGA East chairs William Horberg and Kay Rothman, with the support of presidents Gary Lucchesi and Lori McCreary, national executive director and COO Vance Van Petten, and associate national executive director and COO Susan Sprung.
Byrd will report to La-based Van Petten and Sprung.
She most recently ran her own consulting practice, providing services to Ghetto Film School, Green Beetz, and Museum Of The Moving Image, among others.
Prior to that, she served as co-president of Games For Change, and oversaw the Games For Change Festival, and served as an executive producer on Half The Sky Movement games.
She also served as executive director of Ifp and helped to establish programming and partnerships, including a collaboration...
Michelle Byrd has been hired as managing director of PGA East and will oversee operations from the New York office.
The appointment follows an executive search by PGA East chairs William Horberg and Kay Rothman, with the support of presidents Gary Lucchesi and Lori McCreary, national executive director and COO Vance Van Petten, and associate national executive director and COO Susan Sprung.
Byrd will report to La-based Van Petten and Sprung.
She most recently ran her own consulting practice, providing services to Ghetto Film School, Green Beetz, and Museum Of The Moving Image, among others.
Prior to that, she served as co-president of Games For Change, and oversaw the Games For Change Festival, and served as an executive producer on Half The Sky Movement games.
She also served as executive director of Ifp and helped to establish programming and partnerships, including a collaboration...
- 4/21/2017
- ScreenDaily
Michelle Byrd has been named to the newly created position of managing director, PGA East, the Producers Guild of America announced Friday. When she steps into the new post on May 8, she will oversee East Coast operations from the PGA’s New York office and will report to Vance Van Petten, national executive director and COO, and Susan Sprung, associate national executive director and COO.
Byrd previously served for 12 years, from 1997 to 2009, as executive director of Ifp, the Independent Filmmaker Project, where she relocated Ifp’s annual Gotham Awards to the start of awards season. From 2010 to...
Byrd previously served for 12 years, from 1997 to 2009, as executive director of Ifp, the Independent Filmmaker Project, where she relocated Ifp’s annual Gotham Awards to the start of awards season. From 2010 to...
- 4/21/2017
- by Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Producers Guild of America’s (PGA) National Board of Directors has announced today the hiring of Michelle Byrd as Managing Director, PGA East, a newly created position within the guild. Byrd was appointed after an extensive search led by PGA East Chairs William Horberg and Kay Rothman, and with the support of PGA Presidents Gary Lucchesi and Lori McCreary, PGA National Executive Director/COO Vance Van Petten, and PGA Associate National Executive Director/COO Susan Sprung.
She will oversee east coast operations from the PGA’s New York office.
Byrd’s experience in the industry is extensive. Prior to her new position at the PGA, she worked in the non-profit media organization space, and has been involved with orgs serving film, digital, and games. She served 12 years (1997-2009) as Executive Director of the Independent Filmmaker Project, during which she collaborated with the United Nations and re-positioned Ifp’s signature...
She will oversee east coast operations from the PGA’s New York office.
Byrd’s experience in the industry is extensive. Prior to her new position at the PGA, she worked in the non-profit media organization space, and has been involved with orgs serving film, digital, and games. She served 12 years (1997-2009) as Executive Director of the Independent Filmmaker Project, during which she collaborated with the United Nations and re-positioned Ifp’s signature...
- 4/21/2017
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Michelle Byrd, the former longtime executive director at Independent Film Project, has been tapped by the PGA national board of directors to become managing director of PGA East. In the newly created position she will oversee East Coast operations from the producers guild’s New York office. She starts May 8. The hire comes after a search led by PGA East chairs William Horberg and Kay Rothman. She will report to PGA national executive director/COO Vance Van Petten, and PGA…...
- 4/21/2017
- Deadline TV
Michelle Byrd, the former longtime executive director at Independent Film Project, has been tapped by the PGA national board of directors to become managing director of PGA East. In the newly created position she will oversee East Coast operations from the producers guild’s New York office. She starts May 8. The hire comes after a search led by PGA East chairs William Horberg and Kay Rothman. She will report to PGA national executive director/COO Vance Van Petten, and PGA…...
- 4/21/2017
- Deadline
The HBO movie “The Normal Heart” will receive the 2015 Stanley Kramer Award from the Producers Guild of America, the PGA announced on Friday.
The film, directed by Ryan Murphy and produced by Scott Ferguson, Alexis Martin Woodall, Jason Blum, Dede Gardner, Dante Di Loreto, Ryan Murphy and Brad Pitt, was based on Larry Kramer’s play chronicling the early days of the AIDS epidemic in New York City.
Also read: Why Mark Ruffalo Didn’t Want to Play Larry Kramer in ‘The Normal Heart’ at First
The Stanley Kramer Award was established by the PGA in 2002 to honor films or...
The film, directed by Ryan Murphy and produced by Scott Ferguson, Alexis Martin Woodall, Jason Blum, Dede Gardner, Dante Di Loreto, Ryan Murphy and Brad Pitt, was based on Larry Kramer’s play chronicling the early days of the AIDS epidemic in New York City.
Also read: Why Mark Ruffalo Didn’t Want to Play Larry Kramer in ‘The Normal Heart’ at First
The Stanley Kramer Award was established by the PGA in 2002 to honor films or...
- 12/19/2014
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Guild partners with Producers Guild of America, Guild of Italy
The Production Guild of Great Britain (Pggb) has signed bi-lateral agreements with the Producers Guild of America (PGA) and the Producers Guild of Italy (Agpci) in a bid to foster co-operation between the organisations.
The agreements focus on creating relationships for information sharing and exchanging ideas in film and television production but the guilds are also looking at facilitating official delegations to each other’s countries.
The memorandum of understanding agreements were signed by Pggb chief executive Alison Small with PGA executive director Vance Pan Petten and separately with Martha Capello, president of the Agpci.
Alison Small said: “These agreements mark the first step towards establishing closer working relationships between our respective guilds to the mutual benefit of our work in supporting production personnel. International partnerships underpin a huge amount of film and television production and are very much a part of the day-to-day business so it makes...
The Production Guild of Great Britain (Pggb) has signed bi-lateral agreements with the Producers Guild of America (PGA) and the Producers Guild of Italy (Agpci) in a bid to foster co-operation between the organisations.
The agreements focus on creating relationships for information sharing and exchanging ideas in film and television production but the guilds are also looking at facilitating official delegations to each other’s countries.
The memorandum of understanding agreements were signed by Pggb chief executive Alison Small with PGA executive director Vance Pan Petten and separately with Martha Capello, president of the Agpci.
Alison Small said: “These agreements mark the first step towards establishing closer working relationships between our respective guilds to the mutual benefit of our work in supporting production personnel. International partnerships underpin a huge amount of film and television production and are very much a part of the day-to-day business so it makes...
- 12/8/2014
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) announced Saturday, January 23, 2016 as the date for its 27th Annual Producers Guild Awards, which will be presented at the landmark Hyatt Regency Century Plaza hotel in Los Angeles. The 2016 date marks the second consecutive year the Guild will have hosted the awards at the historic location, as the 26th Annual Producers Guild Awards are already set for early next year on January 24, 2015.
Last year 12 Years A Slave and Gravity took home top honors becoming the first ever tie in PGA history.
“Every year at the Producers Guild Awards, we strive to honor all of our industry’s hardworking producers and seat as many members and guests as possible. We are thrilled to establish a continuing relationship with the Century Plaza, which has the quality, services, facilities and most importantly — space — to accommodate our rapidly growing membership,” said Vance Van Petten, National Executive Director of the PGA.
Last year 12 Years A Slave and Gravity took home top honors becoming the first ever tie in PGA history.
“Every year at the Producers Guild Awards, we strive to honor all of our industry’s hardworking producers and seat as many members and guests as possible. We are thrilled to establish a continuing relationship with the Century Plaza, which has the quality, services, facilities and most importantly — space — to accommodate our rapidly growing membership,” said Vance Van Petten, National Executive Director of the PGA.
- 11/14/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Agreement will allow the two guilds to foster working relationships between Us and Italian producers.
A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed by the Producers Guild of America (PGA) and the Producers Guild of Italy (Agpci).
The partnership will allow the two guilds to foster working relationships between Us and Italian producers. It extends the PGA’s programme of reaching out to the global community to promote the important role of the producer in film, television and new media.
Signing the agreement in Los Angeles was Vance Van Petten, executive director of the PGA, and Martha Capello, president of Agpci, with Bill Stuart and Stu Levy, co-chairs of the PGA International Committee, also in attendance.
Stuart commented: “This is an exciting moment for both guilds as the tradition of Italian film-making is something that has inspired film-makers throughout the world, including Hollywood.”
“The Italian film industry has a lot to learn from the American producers, to export...
A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed by the Producers Guild of America (PGA) and the Producers Guild of Italy (Agpci).
The partnership will allow the two guilds to foster working relationships between Us and Italian producers. It extends the PGA’s programme of reaching out to the global community to promote the important role of the producer in film, television and new media.
Signing the agreement in Los Angeles was Vance Van Petten, executive director of the PGA, and Martha Capello, president of Agpci, with Bill Stuart and Stu Levy, co-chairs of the PGA International Committee, also in attendance.
Stuart commented: “This is an exciting moment for both guilds as the tradition of Italian film-making is something that has inspired film-makers throughout the world, including Hollywood.”
“The Italian film industry has a lot to learn from the American producers, to export...
- 6/9/2014
- by ian.sandwell@screendaily.com (Ian Sandwell)
- ScreenDaily
Park City -- With Michael De Luca and PGA head Vance Van Petten leading the discussion, the second annual PGA breakfast for producers attending Sundance covered a wide variety of topics ranging from Fifty Shades of Grey to De Luca's new job at Columbia Pictures. De Luca, who is producing Fifty Shades before segueing to his post as president of Columbia Pictures, gave the packed room of producers advice on navigating tricky projects. In fact, Fifty Shades was just one of those tricky projects, De Luca said. Van Petten joked that he knows a lot of producers "who said they wouldn't touch that
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- 1/21/2014
- by Tatiana Siegel
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ahead of Sunday's PGA Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, the nominated producers shared behind-the-scenes stories of what it took to bring their highly-acclaimed movies to the screen at the annual Producers Guild of America Nominees Breakfast, presented by The Hollywood Reporter. PGA national executive director Vance Van Petten opened the program, which was held on Saturday morning at the Landmark Theatres in West Los Angeles, by proudly noting that this year there was a real gender balance with five men and five women on the panel, which was moderated by producer Gary Lucchesi, vp motion pictures for the
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- 1/18/2014
- by Alex Ben Block
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Producers Guild’s 6th ‘Produced By Conference’ is slated for June 7 and 8 at Warner Bros Studios in Burbank (Fox hosted last year). The guild hasn’t revealed the lineup yet, but last year’s speakers included Jj Abrams and Roland Emmerich. “Producers are the driving force behind the entertainment and media industries, and we love creating this annual gathering where they can come together as a community,” said Producers Guild of America National Executive Director Vance Van Petten. “Each year, our sold-out Conference continues to grow because it represents a truly unique setting that encourages creativity and collaboration between our industry’s storytellers, innovators and thought leaders. We are thrilled to welcome Warner Bros. Studios as the host of the 2014 Produced By Conference.” The 2014 Pbc is chaired by Guild members Tracey Edmonds, Marshall Herskovitz, Rachel Klein and Gary Lucchesi. Diane Salerno (Six Degrees Global) is the Pbc Sponsorship Director,...
- 1/8/2014
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
All six of the Us majors have now signed up for the industry certificate launched by the Producers Guild Of America.
Paramount, Disney and Warner Bros signed on this week, joining previous signatories Columbia and Screen Gems from the Sony fold, as well as Fox and Universal.
The certification process is designed to establish who performed the bulk of producing work on a film while also establishing an authentic seal of approval.
Producers recognised by the Producers Mark will have their name followed by “p.g.a.” According to the PGA more than 50 films already bear the “p.g.a.” certification ranging from independent and animated films to studio tentpoles.
“We are extremely gratified and proud that the Guild has come so far with this important initiative, and we applaud both our studio and industry colleagues for their support,” said PGA presidents Mark Gordon and Hawk Koch (on leave).
“We also thank our board and past PGA...
Paramount, Disney and Warner Bros signed on this week, joining previous signatories Columbia and Screen Gems from the Sony fold, as well as Fox and Universal.
The certification process is designed to establish who performed the bulk of producing work on a film while also establishing an authentic seal of approval.
Producers recognised by the Producers Mark will have their name followed by “p.g.a.” According to the PGA more than 50 films already bear the “p.g.a.” certification ranging from independent and animated films to studio tentpoles.
“We are extremely gratified and proud that the Guild has come so far with this important initiative, and we applaud both our studio and industry colleagues for their support,” said PGA presidents Mark Gordon and Hawk Koch (on leave).
“We also thank our board and past PGA...
- 7/11/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
The Producers Guild of America has waged a ten-year campaign to get the six major studios to adopt their "Producers Mark" on their films. It's a Seal of Approval showing that the credited producers on the film meet the strict criteria set by the PGA. And they finally got all six studios to sign up to implement the on-screen "p.g.a." credit and certification. According to three officers at the PGA, president Mark Gordon, president on leave Hawk Koch, and National Director Vance Van Petten, over the past 2 1/2 years they have each approached the studios, one by one. The first two studio executives to sign on were Universal Pictures' Ron Meyer and Sony Pictures' Michael Lynton, followed by Twentieth Century Fox and, this week, the Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures. Gordon, Koch and Van Petten say the negotiations with studio heads, attorneys and labor relations took time.
- 7/11/2013
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Mark Burnett was a speaker at Produced By, where he spoke with Producers Guild of America National Executive Director Vance Van Petten on Sunday. At the end of the panel, held in the Zanuck Theater on the 20th Century Fox lot in Los Angeles, Burnett spoke about his next move in the scripted television genre: "Roma [Downey, his wife] and I clearly will do a follow-up to 'The Bible.' No question about that. Something big. We also just finished re-cutting the Jesus part of 'The Bible'." Also read: Mark Burnett on 'Voice' Win Over 'Idol':...
- 6/9/2013
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Ever since Christopher Nolan announced that "The Dark Knight Rises" would be his final Batman movie, fans have been hoping that the director would have a change of heart. After all, considering how popular his first three Batman films have been, doing a fourth movie only makes sense, right?
Well, according to indieWire, Nolan has heard your pleas and after careful consideration, he revealed his answer to those prayers at this weekend's Produced By Conference. That answer?
"No."
Of course, Nolan had plenty of other things to say during his long and informative chat with Producers Guild of America National Executive Director Vance Van Petten. For instance, he spoke about his early work with wife and filmmaking partner Emma Thomas as well as his dislike of filming in digital. But really, the main things fans wanted to know is just why he was being such a hardass about that darn fourth "Dark Knight" film.
Well, according to indieWire, Nolan has heard your pleas and after careful consideration, he revealed his answer to those prayers at this weekend's Produced By Conference. That answer?
"No."
Of course, Nolan had plenty of other things to say during his long and informative chat with Producers Guild of America National Executive Director Vance Van Petten. For instance, he spoke about his early work with wife and filmmaking partner Emma Thomas as well as his dislike of filming in digital. But really, the main things fans wanted to know is just why he was being such a hardass about that darn fourth "Dark Knight" film.
- 6/10/2012
- by Scott Harris
- NextMovie
Christopher Nolan’s directorial outputs have become synonymous with summer blockbuster entertainment. Along with Emma Thomas, his wife and producing partner, the “Memento” director operates Syncopy, the production company whose logo shares the distinctive maze design that accompanied much of the promotional material for his 2010 hit, “Inception.” The Producer Guild of America’s annual Produced By Conference featured a conversation with both Nolan and Thomas, moderated by PGA National Executive Director Vance Van Petten at the Wheel of Fortune studio on the Sony Pictures Entertainment campus. Some of the notable excerpts from their conversation are featured below: On Nolan’s directorial debut, “Following”: Van Patten quizzed the pair about their early years, comparing their efforts to make the noir-tinged “Following” after the two had finished their time at university. “The only budget we had was for...
- 6/9/2012
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Saturday's conference was held at Sony Studios. At the event PGA executive director Vance Van Petten asked Nolan is he is planning a fourth Batman film. "No" was the answer that Nolan gave. When he began working on the script with his brother, he told Jonathan, “I don’t want to save anything.” He acknowledged Richard Donner's Superman as having an influence upon his pitch for Batman Begins. As Donner's version of the Man of Steel strayed from the comic book stories and was still quite successful. "I explained the potential of what was exciting to me. There really had not been an origin story about this extraordinary figure in an ordinary world." Instead of worrying about pleasing fans of the comic books Nolan focuses most of his effort on telling the best story. “The source material is irrelevant. The challenge with Batman is to find what is a believable character.
- 6/9/2012
- ComicBookMovie.com
The fourth annual Produced By Conference runs June 8-10 on the Sony lot in Culver City and last month set its speakers for the event sponsored by the Producers Guild in association with the International CES. The workshops and panels confirmed today include producer-centric topics from new media and global finance to distribution, marketing and brand identity. Here’s the program: Passion Projects: Making Films Everyone Says Will Never Get Made Brian Grazer (A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, American Gangster) and Peter Berg (Battleship, Hancock, Friday Night Lights) discuss how a producer convinces a studio – and ultimately, an audience – to take a risk on an unconventional or challenging story, and how to stake out your own creative ground between “tentpole” productions. TV’S “Mega Producers”: Storytelling Across Multiple Series And Networks Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice,” “Scandal”), SallyAnn Salsano (“Jersey Shore,” “Repo Games,” “Nail Files”) and Bill Lawrence (“Cougar Town,...
- 4/26/2012
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Los Angeles, CA (March 5, 2012) – Susan Sprung has been appointed Associate National Executive Director for the Producers Guild of America, it was announced today by National Executive Director of the Producers Guild, Vance Van Petten. Sprung’s hire is a direct result of the Guild’s consistent growth in membership and the extensive breadth of their programs. Sprung previously served as Special Counsel at the law firm of O’Melveny and Myers in Los Angeles. Prior to that, she was an associate at Barrett Smith Shapiro Simon and Armstrong in New York. She specialized in general corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, large bank financings, private placements and public offerings. She also served as Corporate Counsel to Trizechahn Corporation during the completion of the Hollywood and Highland project. Sprung chaired the Board of Directors of the I Have a Dream Foundation-la for 5 years and was a member of the Board of Trustees of University Synagogue.
- 3/5/2012
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
The Producers Guild of America has scheduled a date for its annual Produced By Conference as introduced the Consumer Electronics Association as the event's new sponsor. Scheduled for June 8-10 at the Sony Pictures Studio lot in Culver City, Calif., the annual event will for the first time be sponsored by the International Consumer Electronics Association. “Cea does such a terrific job producing the International CES, they were a natural partner for our event," executive director Vance Van Petten said in a statement announcing the news Monday. "As entertainment content increasingly intersects with consumer technology, we look forward
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- 12/19/2011
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Los Angeles, CA (October 20, 2011) – Nicole “Nikki” Livolsi has been appointed as Director of Arbitrations & Legal Affairs for the Producers Guild of America, it was announced today by Executive Director of the Producers Guild, Vance Van Petten. Livolsi most recently served as litigation counsel to the Century City law firm of Newhouse Seroussi Attorneys. She previously served as a staff attorney with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, a prominent Southern California Indian Tribe and as a legal consultant for the horse racing gambling brand Youbet.com.
- 10/20/2011
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Los Angeles And New York (August 11, 2010) – Today the Producers Guild of America (PGA) announced the launch of the Green Production Guide, an interactive website which provides the production community with access to a database of environmentally-sensitive products and services from vendors and service providers nationwide. The web-based Green Production Guide (www.greenproductionguide.com) offers film, television and new media producers with easy-to-access resources to help them operate more sustainable productions. With seed funding and support provided by Disney, Fox, NBC Universal, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Warner Bros., the PGA, as part of its PGA Green Initiative, has developed this tool for the production and entertainment community to further its goal of integrating sustainable practices into its operations and reducing the environmental footprint within the production process. The Green Production Guide will also be accessible via a link on www.PGAgreen.org. “I strongly believe that sustainability needs to be part of our everyday vernacular,...
- 8/11/2010
- by Nikki Finke
- Deadline Hollywood
Lawrence "Larry" Gordon got his first producing credit 37 years ago. His productions have included such blockbusters as "48 Hrs.," "Die Hard" and "Watchmen," so he was a natural to fill in when a panelist dropped out of "Producing Blockbusters," one of more than two dozen panels at the Producers Guild of America's Produced By 2010 Conference during the weekend at Fox Studios.
Gordon was joined by industry veterans Mark Johnson and Richard Zanuck, who noted they were in an auditorium named after his father, legendary studio boss Darryl F. Zanuck.
It soon was clear that when producers talk among themselves, the conversations get candid. A frustrated Gordon said it's rougher than ever before being a top Hollywood producer.
"I've had some really bad experiences on the last two or three movies," he said. "I've just about had enough. It's pretty tough. I don't like it."
Gordon stayed afloat on "Waterworld," when studio...
Gordon was joined by industry veterans Mark Johnson and Richard Zanuck, who noted they were in an auditorium named after his father, legendary studio boss Darryl F. Zanuck.
It soon was clear that when producers talk among themselves, the conversations get candid. A frustrated Gordon said it's rougher than ever before being a top Hollywood producer.
"I've had some really bad experiences on the last two or three movies," he said. "I've just about had enough. It's pretty tough. I don't like it."
Gordon stayed afloat on "Waterworld," when studio...
- 6/6/2010
- by By Alex Ben Block
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Several dozen Hollywood producers from TV, film and new media will act as mentors during the second Produced By Conference, being presented June 4-6 by the Producers Guild of America. They will participate in special mentoring roundtables designed to provide insights into succeeding in today's competitive marketplace.
As part of the conference, the PGA is launcing a new online presence that will provide tools for producers. Bonnie Arnold ("How to Train Your Dragon"), Fred Baron (executive vp at 20th Century Fox), Tim Gibbons ("Curb Your Enthusiasm"), Hawk Koch ("Primal Fear"), Lori McCreary ("Invictus"), Cathy Schulman ("Crash") and Screech Washington ("Amazing Race") will be among those participating in a session about the new service called "The Producers Wiki 'Live' -- Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Producing But Didn't Know Who to Ask," which will be moderated by PGA exec director Vance Van Petten.
The Produced By conference will offer...
As part of the conference, the PGA is launcing a new online presence that will provide tools for producers. Bonnie Arnold ("How to Train Your Dragon"), Fred Baron (executive vp at 20th Century Fox), Tim Gibbons ("Curb Your Enthusiasm"), Hawk Koch ("Primal Fear"), Lori McCreary ("Invictus"), Cathy Schulman ("Crash") and Screech Washington ("Amazing Race") will be among those participating in a session about the new service called "The Producers Wiki 'Live' -- Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Producing But Didn't Know Who to Ask," which will be moderated by PGA exec director Vance Van Petten.
The Produced By conference will offer...
- 5/26/2010
- by By Alex Ben Block
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Producers Guild of America is handing out its highest honors this year to TV producer David Picker, awarding him the Charles FitzSimons Award for service to the guild and its members.
Picker receives the award after serving four years as chair of the PGA East region. "I am touched and honored beyond words," he said.
PGA Executive director Vance Van Petten said Picker's commitment to the guild has been an "inspiration" and "tremendous boon" to its members. Picker's honors include life membership in the PGA.
Picker receives the award after serving four years as chair of the PGA East region. "I am touched and honored beyond words," he said.
PGA Executive director Vance Van Petten said Picker's commitment to the guild has been an "inspiration" and "tremendous boon" to its members. Picker's honors include life membership in the PGA.
- 6/15/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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