Casey Wasserman, Chairman and CEO of Wasserman, discusses his transition from sports to Hollywood, the future of management in the entertainment industry, ongoing strikes' impact, and his vision for the LA2028 Olympics.
Casey Wasserman recently acquired Brillstein Entertainment Partners, showing his commitment to expanding into the traditional entertainment business and providing additional value to his clients.
Wasserman believes there may be opportunities for further consolidation in the management field, challenging the historically boutique nature of management companies and emphasizing the importance of culture and attracting the right people to scale effectively.
Deep dives
Casey Wasserman's Background and Jump into the Actor and Filmmaker Business
Casey Wasserman, founder of the Wasserman Agency and Marketing firm, has primarily focused on sports, branding, and music, avoiding the traditional film and television talent industry. However, he recently acquired the management and production company Brillstein, which represents high-profile clients like Brad Pitt and Tiffany Haddish. Wasserman sees this move as an opportunity to expand his business and provide his clients with additional value in the entertainment industry.
Distinction Between Agent and Manager Roles in California
The distinction between agents and managers in California is legally significant. Agents are responsible for procuring jobs for their clients, while managers focus on managing their clients' lives and businesses. Although Wasserman's company operates as both a talent agency and a management company, they abide by the laws governing each industry, ensuring compliance with regulations and union agreements.
Challenges and Opportunities in Consolidating Management Companies
Unlike agencies, management companies have historically been more boutique and personalized. The lack of consolidation in the management space is due to the unique dynamics and interpersonal relationships that exist within these smaller companies. However, Wasserman believes that the industry is changing, and there may be opportunities for further consolidation or attracting top talent to expand businesses. While scaling in a personal service business has its challenges, Wasserman emphasizes the importance of culture and attracting the right people to serve clients effectively.
Casey Wasserman's Involvement with the Olympics and Labor Strikes
In addition to his role as founder and CEO of the Wasserman Agency, Wasserman is also the chairperson of the LA2028 organizing committee for the Olympics and Paralympics. He discusses the immense amount of work and unique challenges involved in organizing an event of this magnitude. He also touches on the importance of trust, communication, and sitting down to resolve labor strikes, emphasizing the role of dialogue and collaboration in finding solutions. Wasserman acknowledges the significance of the Olympics in leaving a lasting impact on a city, creating a legacy for athletes, and fostering a sense of national pride.
Matt is joined by Casey Wasserman, chairman and CEO of Wasserman and chairperson of the LA2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. They discuss Casey’s jump into the traditional entertainment business after purchasing Brillstein Entertainment Partners and what it means for the future of Wasserman, if we will continue to see consolidation in the management field, his thoughts on the ongoing strikes, as well as his vision for the L.A. Olympics in 2028.
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