Big Shot How a Blue-Collar Kid Built the Most Powerful Agency in Hollywood | Michael Ovitz
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Nov 11, 2025 
Michael Ovitz, the legendary Hollywood agent and founder of CAA, reflects on his journey from a blue-collar upbringing to reshaping the entertainment industry. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of iconic films like Jurassic Park and discusses the importance of trust over contracts in business. Ovitz reveals insights from his time in Silicon Valley and his foresight about streaming's disruption of traditional models. His drive for innovation, loyalty to friends, and strategic partnership-building are key takeaways in this fascinating conversation.
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Blue-Collar Work Ethic Shaped Ambition
- Michael Ovitz grew up in a blue-collar neighborhood and started working at age nine with a paper route and Hebrew school commitments.
- That early work ethic shaped his relentless drive and time discipline throughout his career.
Cultural Drive Behind Ambition
- Jewish mothers often combined boundless belief with practical ambition, instilling confidence and professional aspirations in their children.
- Ovitz credits that cultural encouragement for fueling risk tolerance and striving for demanding careers.
Get Back On The Horse Immediately
- Don’t run from failure; treat it as fuel to get back on the horse and try again.
- Use setbacks to regroup quickly and attack the next opportunity with renewed effort.
