Oscar week is finally here! Ask anyone who has been in the thick of awards season and they’ll likely let out a huge sigh followed by exasperated admission that this has been one of the most hectic runs in recent memory. The condensed calendar, forced by last year’s dual strikes, could translate to more lively bashes, however, as there’s light at the end of the tunnel with Sunday’s Oscars. That can only mean that champagne is currently popping at A-list bashes across Los Angeles, and The Hollywood Reporter is on the scene everywhere from Vanity Fair and Elton John to MPTF’s Night Before. See below for the roundup of all the red carpet action.
Vanity Fair
Editor in chief Radhika Jones hosted a milestone 30th anniversary party at a custom designed structure that connects the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts with Beverly Hills City Hall.
Vanity Fair
Editor in chief Radhika Jones hosted a milestone 30th anniversary party at a custom designed structure that connects the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts with Beverly Hills City Hall.
- 3/7/2024
- by Kirsten Chuba and Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
As the most followed woman on Instagram with a staggering 429 million followers, Selena Gomez has never been much concerned with social media success.
“I’ve never really cared about that stuff,” Gomez said at Universal Music Group and Thrive Global’s Music & Health Conference on Tuesday afternoon. “I suppose I’m grateful for the platform, and I would love to continue to use it for what I’m able to do, but numbers are just numbers.”
Rather, she’s well aware of the responsibility that comes with such a far-reaching platform. In her position, Gomez has heard from several fans about how her work has helped them through extremely difficult times. “It can be a little heavy,” she continued. “I feel for people, and I think that’s what kind of keeps me in check, to be honest. I think I can be a little reckless with my emotions and having conversations with young people,...
“I’ve never really cared about that stuff,” Gomez said at Universal Music Group and Thrive Global’s Music & Health Conference on Tuesday afternoon. “I suppose I’m grateful for the platform, and I would love to continue to use it for what I’m able to do, but numbers are just numbers.”
Rather, she’s well aware of the responsibility that comes with such a far-reaching platform. In her position, Gomez has heard from several fans about how her work has helped them through extremely difficult times. “It can be a little heavy,” she continued. “I feel for people, and I think that’s what kind of keeps me in check, to be honest. I think I can be a little reckless with my emotions and having conversations with young people,...
- 9/20/2023
- by Sydney Odman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On Tuesday, December 6, Sandy Hook Promise (Shp) hosted a benefit evening at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City to commemorate the 10-year remembrance of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy.
Matthew McConaughey speaks at the Sandy Hook Promise 10-Year Remembrance benefit event
Credit/Copyright: Ann Billingsley
More than 450 supporters, advocates, and business leaders joined the event to honor the lives taken that tragic day – and celebrate the lifesaving impact of Sandy Hook Promise’s Know the Signs programs.
Barack Obama delivered an emotional and stirring speech as he reflected on the decade since the tragedy, underscoring the lives saved since and the work left to be done to protect children from gun violence in the US.
President Barack Obama delivers keynote speech at Sandy Hook Promise's 10-Year Remembrance benefit event
Credit/Copyright: Ann Billingsley
“When we were together back in 2012, I said that Newtown would be remembered for the...
Matthew McConaughey speaks at the Sandy Hook Promise 10-Year Remembrance benefit event
Credit/Copyright: Ann Billingsley
More than 450 supporters, advocates, and business leaders joined the event to honor the lives taken that tragic day – and celebrate the lifesaving impact of Sandy Hook Promise’s Know the Signs programs.
Barack Obama delivered an emotional and stirring speech as he reflected on the decade since the tragedy, underscoring the lives saved since and the work left to be done to protect children from gun violence in the US.
President Barack Obama delivers keynote speech at Sandy Hook Promise's 10-Year Remembrance benefit event
Credit/Copyright: Ann Billingsley
“When we were together back in 2012, I said that Newtown would be remembered for the...
- 12/13/2022
- Look to the Stars
Executive also addresses Florida, inclusion, workplace creativity in first town hall with employees.
Newly reinstated Disney CEO Bob Iger used a town hall meeting with employees on Monday morning to dismiss talk of a sale to Apple as “pure speculation” as he said he would stick with a proposed hiring freeze.
According to reports and Twitter posts Iger also spoke about Florida and the workplace at the session, which employees attended in-person and virtually.
The CEO said Disney would move ahead with the hiring freeze announced earlier this month by Bob Chapek, adding that the leadership team would need to...
Newly reinstated Disney CEO Bob Iger used a town hall meeting with employees on Monday morning to dismiss talk of a sale to Apple as “pure speculation” as he said he would stick with a proposed hiring freeze.
According to reports and Twitter posts Iger also spoke about Florida and the workplace at the session, which employees attended in-person and virtually.
The CEO said Disney would move ahead with the hiring freeze announced earlier this month by Bob Chapek, adding that the leadership team would need to...
- 11/28/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Click here to read the full article.
On Monday morning Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger addressed employees at the company in a town hall for the first time since his sudden return a week earlier. Kabc anchor Leslie Sykes moderated the town hall.
Iger said that while the ask “was a surprise,” he also “had some inkling that the call could come that day,” so he prepared for the possibility by asking his wife Willow Bay if he should return to Disney if asked.
“Her reaction was, ‘If you are asked, you have to do it,'” he said, adding that while he was “emotionally distant, purposefully” from the company after he left, he was “never fully detached” given his affection for Disney.
Facing a wide range of questions from employees, some in the room and some remote, some on the record and some anonymous, Iger addressed everything from potential dealmaking,...
On Monday morning Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger addressed employees at the company in a town hall for the first time since his sudden return a week earlier. Kabc anchor Leslie Sykes moderated the town hall.
Iger said that while the ask “was a surprise,” he also “had some inkling that the call could come that day,” so he prepared for the possibility by asking his wife Willow Bay if he should return to Disney if asked.
“Her reaction was, ‘If you are asked, you have to do it,'” he said, adding that while he was “emotionally distant, purposefully” from the company after he left, he was “never fully detached” given his affection for Disney.
Facing a wide range of questions from employees, some in the room and some remote, some on the record and some anonymous, Iger addressed everything from potential dealmaking,...
- 11/28/2022
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Now that Disney CEO Bob Iger has regained the keys to the Magic Kingdom — less than three years after his chosen successor, Bob Chapek, took over — insiders suspect they know how the beloved executive will find a new way to go out on top during his final two-year stint.
“He’s going to sell the company,” one Disney insider who has worked for Iger predicted. “This is the pinnacle deal for the ultimate dealmaker.”
Landing a deal with Apple (or some other megabuyer) would also cement Iger’s legacy. “I think he’d welcome it — he’d be the last CEO of Disney,” a former top Disney executive told TheWrap, noting that the two companies have “similar brand identities” and could benefit from a merger.
Acquisitions are in Iger’s DNA. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney went on a nearly 100 billion shopping spree to buy animation giant Pixar in 2006, superhero...
“He’s going to sell the company,” one Disney insider who has worked for Iger predicted. “This is the pinnacle deal for the ultimate dealmaker.”
Landing a deal with Apple (or some other megabuyer) would also cement Iger’s legacy. “I think he’d welcome it — he’d be the last CEO of Disney,” a former top Disney executive told TheWrap, noting that the two companies have “similar brand identities” and could benefit from a merger.
Acquisitions are in Iger’s DNA. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney went on a nearly 100 billion shopping spree to buy animation giant Pixar in 2006, superhero...
- 11/22/2022
- by Joe Bel Bruno
- The Wrap
Walt Disney’s announcement that Bob Chapek would be stepping down as CEO and the retired Bob Iger was replacing him effective immediately has stunned the industry, with Hollywood taking the news with a mix of shock, confusion and (in most cases) approval.
A rival studio source noted that the timing was suspect and that it was less of a shock that Chapek had been removed than that Iger had agreed to return. “There is a real question of what is expected of (Iger),” they said, asking for anonymity, adding that it is generally expected that he would undo most of Chapek’s structural choices.
Multiple industry sources expressed shock at Iger’s return because the former (and now present) CEO so often declared that he and his wife Willow Bay were enjoying retirement. Moreover, this transition occurred just before Thanksgiving week and days before the theatrical release of Walt...
A rival studio source noted that the timing was suspect and that it was less of a shock that Chapek had been removed than that Iger had agreed to return. “There is a real question of what is expected of (Iger),” they said, asking for anonymity, adding that it is generally expected that he would undo most of Chapek’s structural choices.
Multiple industry sources expressed shock at Iger’s return because the former (and now present) CEO so often declared that he and his wife Willow Bay were enjoying retirement. Moreover, this transition occurred just before Thanksgiving week and days before the theatrical release of Walt...
- 11/21/2022
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Welcome to this week’s “Just for Variety.”
Betty Gilpin is in the desert. She’s there filming “Mrs. Davis,” Damon Lindelof and Tara Hernandez’s Peacock drama series, but doesn’t give a specific location — “We’re shooting in the middle of nowhere,” she says — because the project is still mostly under wraps.
Gilpin does share that playing a nun on the show has been quite uncomfortable. “The costume designer is very much British and put me in a wool habit, and we are shooting in the absolute desert, and it’s so hot,” Gilpin tells me on this week’s “Just for Variety” podcast. “I don’t know how these nuns do it. I hope that when they’re at the convent and they have no visitors, they’re like, ‘Should we just wear boxers today?’ Because this is insane.”
Gilpin then teases about the series, “It’s so weird.
Betty Gilpin is in the desert. She’s there filming “Mrs. Davis,” Damon Lindelof and Tara Hernandez’s Peacock drama series, but doesn’t give a specific location — “We’re shooting in the middle of nowhere,” she says — because the project is still mostly under wraps.
Gilpin does share that playing a nun on the show has been quite uncomfortable. “The costume designer is very much British and put me in a wool habit, and we are shooting in the absolute desert, and it’s so hot,” Gilpin tells me on this week’s “Just for Variety” podcast. “I don’t know how these nuns do it. I hope that when they’re at the convent and they have no visitors, they’re like, ‘Should we just wear boxers today?’ Because this is insane.”
Gilpin then teases about the series, “It’s so weird.
- 9/8/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Producer Janet Yang has been elected president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Academy’s Board of Governors announced on Tuesday.
She was elected at a virtual meeting of the 54-member board, which was selecting a successor to casting director David Rubin. While presidents can serve four consecutive one-year terms, Rubin had to leave the board because of term limits after serving three terms.
Yang is a member of the Academy’s Producers Branch and for the past year had served as a vice president of the board and chair of the Membership Committee.
Yang is a producer of “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt” and the recent Oscar-nominated animated feature “Over the Moon.” Born in New York City, she will be the Academy’s first president of Asian descent, and the fourth woman after Bette Davis (who resigned after two months in...
She was elected at a virtual meeting of the 54-member board, which was selecting a successor to casting director David Rubin. While presidents can serve four consecutive one-year terms, Rubin had to leave the board because of term limits after serving three terms.
Yang is a member of the Academy’s Producers Branch and for the past year had served as a vice president of the board and chair of the Membership Committee.
Yang is a producer of “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt” and the recent Oscar-nominated animated feature “Over the Moon.” Born in New York City, she will be the Academy’s first president of Asian descent, and the fourth woman after Bette Davis (who resigned after two months in...
- 8/2/2022
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
A column chronicling events and interviews on the awards circuit.
This week it is the final chance for Emmy voters to be heard as ballot deadlines loom, an honor at the Academy Museum Of Motion Pictures that not only recognized a veteran Asian filmmaking powerhouse but the Asian Pacific industry community as well, plus an interview with two-time Emmy winner Courtney B. Vance who has thoughts on the state of this country on a day many are worried about its future.
For all you straggling Emmy voters, get your act together. You have this final weekend to get those ballots in (due Monday night), and it seems like no one is letting up on their campaigns. The calls keep coming in: “Hi, it looks like some time opened up on Miles Teller’s schedule. I know it’s a long shot but….” or “Is it still possible to do an interview for Annie Live!
This week it is the final chance for Emmy voters to be heard as ballot deadlines loom, an honor at the Academy Museum Of Motion Pictures that not only recognized a veteran Asian filmmaking powerhouse but the Asian Pacific industry community as well, plus an interview with two-time Emmy winner Courtney B. Vance who has thoughts on the state of this country on a day many are worried about its future.
For all you straggling Emmy voters, get your act together. You have this final weekend to get those ballots in (due Monday night), and it seems like no one is letting up on their campaigns. The calls keep coming in: “Hi, it looks like some time opened up on Miles Teller’s schedule. I know it’s a long shot but….” or “Is it still possible to do an interview for Annie Live!
- 6/24/2022
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Janet Yang, the veteran Hollywood producer who has been described as “the godmother of Asian-Americans in the industry” — and who is rumored to be a candidate to succeed David Rubin as the president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ board of governors, on which she has served as a governor-at-large for the last three years and a vice president for the past year, in August — was feted on Tuesday evening at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where a pillar was dedicated and a dinner was held in her honor.
If Yang — the daughter of Chinese immigrants who made her name connecting the Chinese and Hollywood film industries before serving as a producer on films like The Joy Luck Club and The People vs. Larry Flynt — wasn’t planning on seeking the presidency of the Academy’s board prior to Tuesday’s gathering,...
Janet Yang, the veteran Hollywood producer who has been described as “the godmother of Asian-Americans in the industry” — and who is rumored to be a candidate to succeed David Rubin as the president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ board of governors, on which she has served as a governor-at-large for the last three years and a vice president for the past year, in August — was feted on Tuesday evening at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where a pillar was dedicated and a dinner was held in her honor.
If Yang — the daughter of Chinese immigrants who made her name connecting the Chinese and Hollywood film industries before serving as a producer on films like The Joy Luck Club and The People vs. Larry Flynt — wasn’t planning on seeking the presidency of the Academy’s board prior to Tuesday’s gathering,...
- 6/22/2022
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
As we stroll on Disney’s historic Burbank lot toward the plaza where he is about to be photographed in front of a statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse holding hands, I ask Iger if he is feeling melancholy about his decision to leave.
“I’m being resolute about it — this time around. I haven’t once second-guessed it or hesitated,” he tells me. “It’s bittersweet. I’m going to miss people, and I’m going to miss the creative process.” Iger, who turns 71 in February and who began his career at age 23 at ABC, is one of only six CEOs to lead Disney since its founding in 1923 until Bob Chapek assumed the role in February 2020.
Ten days from now, Iger can step away knowing that few, if any, media leaders can claim as impressive a track record at any one enterprise as he achieved over his time...
“I’m being resolute about it — this time around. I haven’t once second-guessed it or hesitated,” he tells me. “It’s bittersweet. I’m going to miss people, and I’m going to miss the creative process.” Iger, who turns 71 in February and who began his career at age 23 at ABC, is one of only six CEOs to lead Disney since its founding in 1923 until Bob Chapek assumed the role in February 2020.
Ten days from now, Iger can step away knowing that few, if any, media leaders can claim as impressive a track record at any one enterprise as he achieved over his time...
- 12/21/2021
- by Claudia Eller
- Variety Film + TV
When Erin Burnett joined CNN to anchor its 7 p.m. news hour in 2011, she had to deal with an unexpected technical problem.
Before Burnett was anchoring early prime on CNN, and before she was a staple of CNBC’s dayside lineup, she worked as Willow Bay’s assistant on the CNN financial program Moneyline. That was when the channel’s New York studios were at 5 Penn Plaza, above Penn Station and across the street from Madison Square Garden, years before it would move to Columbus Circle, and eventually its new headquarters at Hudson Yards.
“When I came back [in 2011] ...
Before Burnett was anchoring early prime on CNN, and before she was a staple of CNBC’s dayside lineup, she worked as Willow Bay’s assistant on the CNN financial program Moneyline. That was when the channel’s New York studios were at 5 Penn Plaza, above Penn Station and across the street from Madison Square Garden, years before it would move to Columbus Circle, and eventually its new headquarters at Hudson Yards.
“When I came back [in 2011] ...
- 10/13/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When Erin Burnett joined CNN to anchor its 7 p.m. news hour in 2011, she had to deal with an unexpected technical problem.
Before Burnett was anchoring early prime on CNN, and before she was a staple of CNBC’s dayside lineup, she worked as Willow Bay’s assistant on the CNN financial program Moneyline. That was when the channel’s New York studios were at 5 Penn Plaza, above Penn Station and across the street from Madison Square Garden, years before it would move to Columbus Circle, and eventually its new headquarters at Hudson Yards.
“When I came back [in 2011] ...
Before Burnett was anchoring early prime on CNN, and before she was a staple of CNBC’s dayside lineup, she worked as Willow Bay’s assistant on the CNN financial program Moneyline. That was when the channel’s New York studios were at 5 Penn Plaza, above Penn Station and across the street from Madison Square Garden, years before it would move to Columbus Circle, and eventually its new headquarters at Hudson Yards.
“When I came back [in 2011] ...
- 10/13/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Yes hosted the Yes 20th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, September 23, at The Maybourne Beverly Hills, where they honored Willow Bay and Bob Iger for their decades-long support of the organization.
Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the Yes 20th Anniversary Gala
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Yes 20th Anniversary Gala
The Gala, which celebrated Yes’ extraordinary 20 years of changing lives through education, brought in over $5M for the organization. The special event was hosted by select Yes scholars and alumni, and was presented by The Walt Disney Company.
Mellody Hobson and David Geffen served as Co-Chairs for the Gala. The two took to the stage to introduce honorees Willow Bay and Bob Iger, and present them each with a Yes Award for their generous contributions over the years. Beyond providing invaluable resources for students, Bay and Iger have personally advocated for and supported scholars, from arranging school transportation to championing grants and charitable partnerships.
Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the Yes 20th Anniversary Gala
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Yes 20th Anniversary Gala
The Gala, which celebrated Yes’ extraordinary 20 years of changing lives through education, brought in over $5M for the organization. The special event was hosted by select Yes scholars and alumni, and was presented by The Walt Disney Company.
Mellody Hobson and David Geffen served as Co-Chairs for the Gala. The two took to the stage to introduce honorees Willow Bay and Bob Iger, and present them each with a Yes Award for their generous contributions over the years. Beyond providing invaluable resources for students, Bay and Iger have personally advocated for and supported scholars, from arranging school transportation to championing grants and charitable partnerships.
- 10/1/2021
- Look to the Stars
At Thursday night’s 20th anniversary celebration of Eric Eisner’s scholarship program Yes for disadvantaged and underserved youth, David Geffen made a surprise $1 million donation, as did Mellody Hobson. Christina Aguilera performed in a sparkly pink dress and former “Bachelorette” star Rachel Lindsay passed out red roses (natch!) to guests gifting $10,000 donations. The event raised more than $5 million for the organization.
Power couple Bob Iger and Willow Bay were honored for their longtime support of Yes at the event, which took place on a third-floor outdoor event space at the Maybourne, the Beverly Hills hotel formerly known as the Montage. “With all the uncertainty and all the anxiety and all of the turmoil that exists in our world today, it really is wonderful to come together and to be able to focus on something positive and celebrate an organization that has had such a meaningful and lasting impact on people’s lives,...
Power couple Bob Iger and Willow Bay were honored for their longtime support of Yes at the event, which took place on a third-floor outdoor event space at the Maybourne, the Beverly Hills hotel formerly known as the Montage. “With all the uncertainty and all the anxiety and all of the turmoil that exists in our world today, it really is wonderful to come together and to be able to focus on something positive and celebrate an organization that has had such a meaningful and lasting impact on people’s lives,...
- 9/24/2021
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
On Thursday evening, Hollywood executives and philanthropists gathered at The Maybourne in Beverly Hills to honor Bob Iger and Willow Bay in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Yes, Eric Eisner’s Young Eisner Scholars program. Cocktails flowed as the gala’s attendees — the likes of which included Iger and Bay, gala co-chairs David Geffen and Mellody Hobson, Chuck Lorre, Ashley Olsen, musical guest Christina Aguilera and actress Carey Lowell — made generous contributions to Yes throughout the night, culminating in more than $5 million in donations.
Since its inception in Lennox, California over 20 years ago, Yes has provided resources and opportunity to high-achieving students in ...
Since its inception in Lennox, California over 20 years ago, Yes has provided resources and opportunity to high-achieving students in ...
- 9/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On Thursday evening, Hollywood executives and philanthropists gathered at The Maybourne in Beverly Hills to honor Bob Iger and Willow Bay in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Yes, Eric Eisner’s Young Eisner Scholars program. Cocktails flowed as the gala’s attendees — the likes of which included Iger and Bay, gala co-chairs David Geffen and Mellody Hobson, Chuck Lorre, Ashley Olsen, musical guest Christina Aguilera and actress Carey Lowell — made generous contributions to Yes throughout the night, culminating in more than $5 million in donations.
Since its inception in Lennox, California over 20 years ago, Yes has provided resources and opportunity to high-achieving students in ...
Since its inception in Lennox, California over 20 years ago, Yes has provided resources and opportunity to high-achieving students in ...
- 9/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Yes will host the Yes 20th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at The Maybourne Beverly Hills, honoring Willow Bay and Bob Iger for their decades-long support of the organization.
Mellody Hobson and David Geffen are Co-Chairs for the Gala, which celebrates Yes’ extraordinary 20 years of changing lives through education. Presented by The Walt Disney Company, the celebration will feature a musical performance by global superstar Christina Aguilera. The evening will be hosted by select Yes scholars and alumni.
Founded by Eric Eisner, Young Eisner Scholars (“Yes”) identifies academically promising students from low-income communities. Beginning as early as elementary school and continuing through high school, college, and career placement, Yes provides long-term academic resources and holistic support necessary to make college and career success an attainable goal. Over 90% of Yes scholars are first generation college students, and 85% are from households below the national poverty level. With 100% of scholars accepted to college...
Mellody Hobson and David Geffen are Co-Chairs for the Gala, which celebrates Yes’ extraordinary 20 years of changing lives through education. Presented by The Walt Disney Company, the celebration will feature a musical performance by global superstar Christina Aguilera. The evening will be hosted by select Yes scholars and alumni.
Founded by Eric Eisner, Young Eisner Scholars (“Yes”) identifies academically promising students from low-income communities. Beginning as early as elementary school and continuing through high school, college, and career placement, Yes provides long-term academic resources and holistic support necessary to make college and career success an attainable goal. Over 90% of Yes scholars are first generation college students, and 85% are from households below the national poverty level. With 100% of scholars accepted to college...
- 9/17/2021
- Look to the Stars
Yes — Eric Eisner’s Young Eisner Scholars, an organization that supports academically promising students from low-income areas in L.A., New York, Chicago and rural Appalachian North Carolina — will honor Bob Iger and Willow Bay at its 20th-anniversary celebration.
The event, scheduled for Sept. 23, will be held at The Maybourne Beverly Hills and feature a performance by Christina Aguilera.
Iger, executive chairman of the Walt Disney Company and chairman of the board of directors, and wife Bay, dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, will be feted with the Yes Award for their contributions over the years....
The event, scheduled for Sept. 23, will be held at The Maybourne Beverly Hills and feature a performance by Christina Aguilera.
Iger, executive chairman of the Walt Disney Company and chairman of the board of directors, and wife Bay, dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, will be feted with the Yes Award for their contributions over the years....
Joe Biden has a $1.9 trillion plan to beat back the coronavirus pandemic and get the American economy back on its feet. However, here in L.A., Disney’s Executive Chairman and his spouse are putting some of their own money on the table to help local small businesses right now.
“Thanks to an incredibly generous donation of $5 million from Willow Bay and Bob Iger, I’m proud to announce that 1,000 of our city’s hardest-hit businesses will come off that waiting list and be helped,” Mayor Eric Garcetti announced tonight. The funds from Iger and Bay will be distributed through the emergency Covid-19 crisis fund of the March 2020 founded Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles.
“Your new commitment will help these businesses weather this storm, and we are beyond grateful for your bold leadership,” Garcetti added of Iger and Bay’s contribution.
This is the second time since the pandemic...
“Thanks to an incredibly generous donation of $5 million from Willow Bay and Bob Iger, I’m proud to announce that 1,000 of our city’s hardest-hit businesses will come off that waiting list and be helped,” Mayor Eric Garcetti announced tonight. The funds from Iger and Bay will be distributed through the emergency Covid-19 crisis fund of the March 2020 founded Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles.
“Your new commitment will help these businesses weather this storm, and we are beyond grateful for your bold leadership,” Garcetti added of Iger and Bay’s contribution.
This is the second time since the pandemic...
- 1/15/2021
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has exceeded its pre-opening fundraising goal of $388 million, director and president Bill Kramer announced Friday. A donation from film production company Laika closed out the campaign goal, the total of which encompasses capital gifts endowments, funding for education programs and other special gifts.
More than 13,000 donors contributed to the campaign, which is headed by chair Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks, including individuals, corporations, foundations and government entities.
“Closing this fundraising campaign is an important and exciting milestone for the Academy Museum,” Kramer said. “We are deeply grateful to our campaign leadership and to our Trustees, donors, and partners who have made important commitments to the campaign. Their support is helping to make the Academy’s long-held dream of building the world’s premier film museum a reality.”
The Academy announced in January that it had reached 95% of the $388 million goal.
More than 13,000 donors contributed to the campaign, which is headed by chair Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks, including individuals, corporations, foundations and government entities.
“Closing this fundraising campaign is an important and exciting milestone for the Academy Museum,” Kramer said. “We are deeply grateful to our campaign leadership and to our Trustees, donors, and partners who have made important commitments to the campaign. Their support is helping to make the Academy’s long-held dream of building the world’s premier film museum a reality.”
The Academy announced in January that it had reached 95% of the $388 million goal.
- 11/13/2020
- by Natalie Oganesyan and Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures just got a boost from Oregon animation studio Laika that put it over the top in fulfilling its pre-opening fundraising goal of $388 million and also has assured AMPAS members that it is on track to meet its planned April 30 opening date. Museum director and president Bill Kramer made the fundraising announcement today.
The total includes capital gifts, endowments, funding for education programs and other special gifts for the campaign, launched in 2012 and chaired by Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks. More than 13,000 donors contributed to the campaign, with the biggest sum coming from Cheryl and Haim Saban, who donated $50 million and in return will have the (former May Company) building renamed the Saban Building.
“This is a great day for the Academy Museum and the entire world of film,” Iger said. “Thanks to the wonderful generosity of a broad community of donors,...
The total includes capital gifts, endowments, funding for education programs and other special gifts for the campaign, launched in 2012 and chaired by Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks. More than 13,000 donors contributed to the campaign, with the biggest sum coming from Cheryl and Haim Saban, who donated $50 million and in return will have the (former May Company) building renamed the Saban Building.
“This is a great day for the Academy Museum and the entire world of film,” Iger said. “Thanks to the wonderful generosity of a broad community of donors,...
- 11/13/2020
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced today that some of Hollywood’s biggest names have put some big bucks on the City of Angels’ frontlines fighting the coronavirus pandemic.
“I’ve seen it in the can-do spirit of some of the pillars of our community who are making personal contributions that we’re redistributing to those who are the worst off in this city and making sure that those who are by-passed by federal legislation are still seen as human regardless of their immigration status or where they come from,” said the Mayor on Sunday giving his now daily briefing on the health crisis that has seen 2136 confirmed cases and 37 deaths as of today.
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“In fact,...
“I’ve seen it in the can-do spirit of some of the pillars of our community who are making personal contributions that we’re redistributing to those who are the worst off in this city and making sure that those who are by-passed by federal legislation are still seen as human regardless of their immigration status or where they come from,” said the Mayor on Sunday giving his now daily briefing on the health crisis that has seen 2136 confirmed cases and 37 deaths as of today.
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“In fact,...
- 3/30/2020
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Anita Hill says the Hollywood Commission she chairs is determined “to change the system” that has allowed sexual harassment and discrimination to coexist in the entertainment industry for decades. Speaking today at the 2020 Makers Conference, she said that the Commission on Eliminating Sexual Harassment and Advancing Equality “is a manifestation of the collective action” that must be taken “if we are going to have solutions.”
Interviewed onstage by Willow Bay, dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, Hill urged everyone in the industry to take the commission’s survey, which seeks to gauge the extent of harassment, bias and abuse in the workplace. The survey is set to close on Feb. 24. “That gives you plenty of time to participate, and I ask you to do so if you’re eligible to take it,” she said. “Take the survey and help us do our work.” The Commission was...
Interviewed onstage by Willow Bay, dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, Hill urged everyone in the industry to take the commission’s survey, which seeks to gauge the extent of harassment, bias and abuse in the workplace. The survey is set to close on Feb. 24. “That gives you plenty of time to participate, and I ask you to do so if you’re eligible to take it,” she said. “Take the survey and help us do our work.” The Commission was...
- 2/11/2020
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences added more details Monday to the news relayed at the Oscar Nominees Luncheon by president David Rubin that the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has reached 95% of its funding goal. AMPAS said the institution has raised more than $368 million in pledges and cash, near its $388 million pre-opening campaign goal.
The Campaign for the Academy Museum was launched in 2012, headed by chair Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks. Rubin gave Iger a shout-out today at the luncheon at the Ray Dolby Ballroom.
The Academy Museum is still targeting a 2020 open date for its Mid-Wilshire District home, saying the 300,000 square-foot public and exhibition space is in its final exhibition design, build-out, and testing stages.
“The motion picture community and movie fans from around the world know how much the Academy Museum will mean for the global appreciation and enjoyment of the movies,...
The Campaign for the Academy Museum was launched in 2012, headed by chair Bob Iger and co-chairs Annette Bening and Tom Hanks. Rubin gave Iger a shout-out today at the luncheon at the Ray Dolby Ballroom.
The Academy Museum is still targeting a 2020 open date for its Mid-Wilshire District home, saying the 300,000 square-foot public and exhibition space is in its final exhibition design, build-out, and testing stages.
“The motion picture community and movie fans from around the world know how much the Academy Museum will mean for the global appreciation and enjoyment of the movies,...
- 1/28/2020
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney came close to buying Twitter in 2016. Michael Eisner made an impassioned pitch to the Disney board to block Bob Iger’s acquisition of Pixar. In the mid-1980s, Iger almost joined ICM as a sports agent.
Those are some of the intriguing revelations in Iger’s new book “The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned From 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company.” Iger describes the book as not so much a memoir as an effort to share the knowledge and leadership skills he’s gained after more than 45 years in the trenches, starting out at ABC in 1974 and at Disney since 1995.
Iger’s book is liveliest in the passages discussing the big transactions that have transformed Disney on his watch: the acquisition of Pixar in 2006, followed by Marvel in 2009 and Lucasfilm in 2012. He also explains the reasoning behind his famous regimen of waking at 4:15 a.m.
Those are some of the intriguing revelations in Iger’s new book “The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned From 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company.” Iger describes the book as not so much a memoir as an effort to share the knowledge and leadership skills he’s gained after more than 45 years in the trenches, starting out at ABC in 1974 and at Disney since 1995.
Iger’s book is liveliest in the passages discussing the big transactions that have transformed Disney on his watch: the acquisition of Pixar in 2006, followed by Marvel in 2009 and Lucasfilm in 2012. He also explains the reasoning behind his famous regimen of waking at 4:15 a.m.
- 10/4/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Juiciest Takeaways From Bob Iger’s Nyt Chat: Murdoch Drama, Executive Diversity and Female Directors
Bob Iger’s forthcoming memoir “The Ride of a Lifetime” is by all means a reflection on the Disney CEO’s long career, but a Sunday interview discussing the project saw him touch on some hot topics surrounding the media company.
A lack of diversity in Disney’s C-suite, complaints over his compensation, Lucasfilm’s track record in hiring women movie directors and Murdoch family drama during the Fox acquisition all came up in a roving chat between Iger and New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd.
Seemingly conducted over several conversations, held in locales like a chauffeured BMW and behind the scenes at Disneyland’s new Star Wars attraction, here are some top takeaways:
Iger 2020?
The CEO’s mulling of a possible presidential run has been reported on for years. There were two factors in his decision not to pursue the notion, the story purports. First, Iger’s wife Willow Bay...
A lack of diversity in Disney’s C-suite, complaints over his compensation, Lucasfilm’s track record in hiring women movie directors and Murdoch family drama during the Fox acquisition all came up in a roving chat between Iger and New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd.
Seemingly conducted over several conversations, held in locales like a chauffeured BMW and behind the scenes at Disneyland’s new Star Wars attraction, here are some top takeaways:
Iger 2020?
The CEO’s mulling of a possible presidential run has been reported on for years. There were two factors in his decision not to pursue the notion, the story purports. First, Iger’s wife Willow Bay...
- 9/23/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Bob Iger didn’t mince words while being honored Thursday by the Simon Wiesenthal Center.
Upon receiving the Humanitarian Award at the organization’s National Tribute Dinner from Jeffrey Katzenberg, the Walt Disney Co. chairman and CEO delivered a scathing critique of social media and the current state of political discourse.
“Hate and anger are dragging us toward the abyss once again,” Iger said. “Apathy is actually growing. In the last few years, we have been harshly reminded that hate takes many forms, sometimes disguising itself as more socially acceptable expression like fear or resentment or contempt. It is consuming our public discourse and shaping our county and culture into something that is wholly unrecognizable to those of us who still believe in civility, human rights and basic decency.”
He decried social media for users’ abilities to spread hate.
“Hitler would have loved social media,” Iger said. “It’s the...
Upon receiving the Humanitarian Award at the organization’s National Tribute Dinner from Jeffrey Katzenberg, the Walt Disney Co. chairman and CEO delivered a scathing critique of social media and the current state of political discourse.
“Hate and anger are dragging us toward the abyss once again,” Iger said. “Apathy is actually growing. In the last few years, we have been harshly reminded that hate takes many forms, sometimes disguising itself as more socially acceptable expression like fear or resentment or contempt. It is consuming our public discourse and shaping our county and culture into something that is wholly unrecognizable to those of us who still believe in civility, human rights and basic decency.”
He decried social media for users’ abilities to spread hate.
“Hitler would have loved social media,” Iger said. “It’s the...
- 4/11/2019
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix content chief Ted Sarandos says the uproar over Claire Foy’s salary for The Crown prompted a review by the streaming giant of talent salaries across its original and third-party series as well as a couple of adjustments.
Appearing at the Makers Conference in Dana Point, CA, Sarandos noted that Netflix licensed the show (from Sony Pictures Television) and thus did not set Foy’s salary, which was revealed last year to be significantly lower than that of co-star Matt Smith. Even so, he said the public conversation about the pay gap — prompted initially by Deadline’s Peter White last March — did have a practical impact on Netflix’s business.
“It’s really a complicated thing when you’re breaking new talent in a new show,” Sarandos told moderator Willow Bay, dean of USC’s Annenberg School. “The show turned out to be an enormous show for Netflix and...
Appearing at the Makers Conference in Dana Point, CA, Sarandos noted that Netflix licensed the show (from Sony Pictures Television) and thus did not set Foy’s salary, which was revealed last year to be significantly lower than that of co-star Matt Smith. Even so, he said the public conversation about the pay gap — prompted initially by Deadline’s Peter White last March — did have a practical impact on Netflix’s business.
“It’s really a complicated thing when you’re breaking new talent in a new show,” Sarandos told moderator Willow Bay, dean of USC’s Annenberg School. “The show turned out to be an enormous show for Netflix and...
- 2/8/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Blue was the new black at this year’s Golden Globes red carpet, at least for Lady Gaga, who sported ice blue-blonde locks and a periwinkle dress so voluminous it required two assistants to help carry its train.
The dress, reminiscent of Judy Garland’s gown in the 1954 “A Star is Born,” was one of a spectrum of fashion trends, including all-white ensembles from host Sandra Oh, “Halloween” star Jamie Lee Curtis, presenter Julianne Moore and Gaga’s own co-star Bradley Cooper – a stark contrast to last year’s all-black ensembles.
Previously, the Time’s Up organization helped coordinate an all-black carpet, prompting a wave of political statements led by a number of prominent celebrities including Reese Witherspoon, Alison Brie, Katherine Langford and Emma Watson.
This year, the Time’s Up movement planned yet another red carpet political statement, this time with new black-and-white ribbons and bands, designed by Hollywood...
The dress, reminiscent of Judy Garland’s gown in the 1954 “A Star is Born,” was one of a spectrum of fashion trends, including all-white ensembles from host Sandra Oh, “Halloween” star Jamie Lee Curtis, presenter Julianne Moore and Gaga’s own co-star Bradley Cooper – a stark contrast to last year’s all-black ensembles.
Previously, the Time’s Up organization helped coordinate an all-black carpet, prompting a wave of political statements led by a number of prominent celebrities including Reese Witherspoon, Alison Brie, Katherine Langford and Emma Watson.
This year, the Time’s Up movement planned yet another red carpet political statement, this time with new black-and-white ribbons and bands, designed by Hollywood...
- 1/7/2019
- by Nate Nickolai
- Variety Film + TV
Last week, Pen America hosted their 2018 LitFest Gala in Los Angeles, a celebration of free expression and the literary arts that honored some of the brightest names in film, television, and literature.
Ai Weiwei Honored at Pen America 2018 LitFest Gala
Globally lauded artist Ai Weiwei received the Artistic Expression Award, Academy Award Winning writer-director Barry Jenkins received the Award for Screenplay Excellence, award-winning Sharp Objects writers Marti Noxon and Gillian Flynn received the Award for Teleplay Excellence, and Pen America Trustee Marvin Putnam received the Distinguished Leadership Award. The event, hosted by My Favorite Murder creators and authors of the forthcoming book Stay Sexy & Don’T Get Murdered, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, raised funds that will support initiatives including advocacy for writers, journalists, and artists threatened or imprisoned worldwide, as well as landmark research that addresses critical free speech issues, and the advancement of literary excellence and cross-cultural exchanges through hallmark initiatives,...
Ai Weiwei Honored at Pen America 2018 LitFest Gala
Globally lauded artist Ai Weiwei received the Artistic Expression Award, Academy Award Winning writer-director Barry Jenkins received the Award for Screenplay Excellence, award-winning Sharp Objects writers Marti Noxon and Gillian Flynn received the Award for Teleplay Excellence, and Pen America Trustee Marvin Putnam received the Distinguished Leadership Award. The event, hosted by My Favorite Murder creators and authors of the forthcoming book Stay Sexy & Don’T Get Murdered, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, raised funds that will support initiatives including advocacy for writers, journalists, and artists threatened or imprisoned worldwide, as well as landmark research that addresses critical free speech issues, and the advancement of literary excellence and cross-cultural exchanges through hallmark initiatives,...
- 11/8/2018
- Look to the Stars
TheSkimm, a digital-media company built on a daily newsletter aimed at millennial women, has closed out a $12 million Series C funding round with a group of mostly female investors, including Shonda Rhimes and Tyra Banks.
Other backers who participated in the round include Willow Bay, a former TV journalist who’s now dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism; Jesse Draper, founding partner of Halogen Ventures; Linnea Roberts, founder and CEO of GingerBread Capital; and Hope Taitz, CEO of Ely Capital.
Also joining the round as new investors are Goldman Sachs and Michael Karsch, chairman of juice-bar chain Juice Press. Other prior Series C investors are Gv (formerly Google Ventures), Spanx founder Sara Blakely and former lead investors 21st Century Fox, Rre Ventures and Homebrew Ventures.
“We wanted to use this moment in time to curate a really impressive group of female investors, to make sure we...
Other backers who participated in the round include Willow Bay, a former TV journalist who’s now dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism; Jesse Draper, founding partner of Halogen Ventures; Linnea Roberts, founder and CEO of GingerBread Capital; and Hope Taitz, CEO of Ely Capital.
Also joining the round as new investors are Goldman Sachs and Michael Karsch, chairman of juice-bar chain Juice Press. Other prior Series C investors are Gv (formerly Google Ventures), Spanx founder Sara Blakely and former lead investors 21st Century Fox, Rre Ventures and Homebrew Ventures.
“We wanted to use this moment in time to curate a really impressive group of female investors, to make sure we...
- 5/21/2018
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
A lengthy Vogue profile of Disney CEO Bob Iger incorporates, of course, ample notes and quotes about his sartorial preference for business casual. But it also fleshes out parts of his background and world view that don’t often get as much ink.
“The status quo, to me, is a joke,” Iger emphasizes, referring to multiple aspects of his stewardship of the company. Given his support for Democratic causes, the quote also has a political dimension. He tells writer Rob Haskell that he was actively pursuing a run for president as a counter to Donald Trump, when the 21st Century Fox opportunity presented itself.
Iger said the impulse to explore a bid “was coming from the patriot in me, growing up at a time when we respected our politicians not only for what they stood for but because of what they accomplished. I am horrified at the state of politics in America today,...
“The status quo, to me, is a joke,” Iger emphasizes, referring to multiple aspects of his stewardship of the company. Given his support for Democratic causes, the quote also has a political dimension. He tells writer Rob Haskell that he was actively pursuing a run for president as a counter to Donald Trump, when the 21st Century Fox opportunity presented itself.
Iger said the impulse to explore a bid “was coming from the patriot in me, growing up at a time when we respected our politicians not only for what they stood for but because of what they accomplished. I am horrified at the state of politics in America today,...
- 4/12/2018
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Speculation has long surrounded Disney CEO Bob Iger and a possible presidential run in 2020, and in a new interview, he says entering the race was on his mind until recently.
He told Vogue this week that though his wife, Willow Bay, hated the idea, she gave Iger permission to explore the possibility of a White House run, something he was doing until Disney’s historic acquisition of 21st Century Fox in December made that impossible.
“The thought I had was coming from the patriot in me, growing up at a time when we respected our politicians not only for what they stood for but because of what they accomplished,” Iger said in the interview. “I am horrified at the state of politics in America today, and I will throw stones in multiple directions. Dialogue has given way to disdain. I, maybe a bit naively, believed that there was a need...
He told Vogue this week that though his wife, Willow Bay, hated the idea, she gave Iger permission to explore the possibility of a White House run, something he was doing until Disney’s historic acquisition of 21st Century Fox in December made that impossible.
“The thought I had was coming from the patriot in me, growing up at a time when we respected our politicians not only for what they stood for but because of what they accomplished,” Iger said in the interview. “I am horrified at the state of politics in America today, and I will throw stones in multiple directions. Dialogue has given way to disdain. I, maybe a bit naively, believed that there was a need...
- 4/12/2018
- by Kirsten Chuba
- Variety Film + TV
A closed-door, month-long row between Walt Disney Studios and The Los Angeles Times became public when the newspaper told readers why there was no “Thor: Ragnarock” review Nov. 3. “’Thor: Ragnarok,’ which opens wide today, will not be reviewed in today’s paper,” read a note from the editors in the Calendar section. “Walt Disney Co. studios declined to screen the movie for The Times’ critics, citing what it called unfair coverage of its business ties with the city of Anaheim. The Times will continue to review and cover Disney movies and programs when they are available to the public.”
Disney’s entities also include networks ABC, A+E and Espn. La Times reporter Glenn Whipp told IndieWire, “Our TV writers have had their access stripped from the Disney TV sites for a while now,” saying it stemmed back to early October.
Read More:At D23, Disney Showed Off Its Mighty Star Wars,...
Disney’s entities also include networks ABC, A+E and Espn. La Times reporter Glenn Whipp told IndieWire, “Our TV writers have had their access stripped from the Disney TV sites for a while now,” saying it stemmed back to early October.
Read More:At D23, Disney Showed Off Its Mighty Star Wars,...
- 11/4/2017
- by Jenna Marotta
- Indiewire
Music titan David Geffen had a star-studded party in Italy on his $590 million yacht last week, with A-list celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King and Diane Sawyer.
The party was anchored in Sicily near the exclusive Google retreat at the chic Verdura Resort known as “The Camp,” which Geffen attended, The Observer reported.
“Bob, Willow, Gayle, Oprah, Diane, Dasha, Dvf. A great week in Sicily,” wrote Geffen for an Instagram snap of the stars.
Oprah —who just launched O, That’s Good!, a line of health-conscious, heat-and-eat foods in collaboration with Kraft Heinz — has joined Geffen on his 454-foot yacht more than once.
The party was anchored in Sicily near the exclusive Google retreat at the chic Verdura Resort known as “The Camp,” which Geffen attended, The Observer reported.
“Bob, Willow, Gayle, Oprah, Diane, Dasha, Dvf. A great week in Sicily,” wrote Geffen for an Instagram snap of the stars.
Oprah —who just launched O, That’s Good!, a line of health-conscious, heat-and-eat foods in collaboration with Kraft Heinz — has joined Geffen on his 454-foot yacht more than once.
- 8/12/2017
- by Yvonne Juris
- PEOPLE.com
USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism Dean Willow Bay asked if there is a legal solution to combat fake news during a panel discussion on Wednesday as industry leaders participated in a passionate discussion. Bay moderated the discussion titled, “Fake News: Negotiating Politics and Society in a Post-Truth World,” on Wednesday at Milken Institute’s Global Conference in Beverly Hills. “Journalism is going through profound disruption… it is terrifying,” Facebook head of partnerships Campbell Brown said before explaining that Facebook is not a news organization, but is part of the “news ecosystem” because so many people consume news on the platform.
- 5/3/2017
- by Brian Flood
- The Wrap
The George Lucas Family Foundation has given a second $10 million endowment to USC’s School of Cinematic Arts to support student diversity initiatives, the school’s dean Elizabeth M. Daley announced Monday. The new gift raises Lucas’ support for the initiative, which was launched last fall, to $20 million. The fund provides an endowment for students from underrepresented communities who qualify for financial support. African American and Hispanic students in both undergraduate and graduate programs receive priority consideration for support and are known as George Lucas Scholars or Mellody Hobson Scholars. Also Read: Willow Bay Named Dean of USC Annenberg School for Communication.
- 3/27/2017
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
This article originally appeared on EW.com.
Disney CEO Bob Iger made a statement Thursday that offered relief to the Star Wars fandom – then said another thing that sent it into a frenzy of shock.
He was speaking at the Scale – Future of Tech and Entertainment conference in a Q&A with his wife, journalist Willow Bay, when talk turned to the galaxy far, far away.
Bay asked what he could share, and Iger said, basically, not much.
“I’ve seen and VIII is quite good,” he said about December’s The Last Jedi, directed by Rian Johnson. “It picks up where VII left off.
Disney CEO Bob Iger made a statement Thursday that offered relief to the Star Wars fandom – then said another thing that sent it into a frenzy of shock.
He was speaking at the Scale – Future of Tech and Entertainment conference in a Q&A with his wife, journalist Willow Bay, when talk turned to the galaxy far, far away.
Bay asked what he could share, and Iger said, basically, not much.
“I’ve seen and VIII is quite good,” he said about December’s The Last Jedi, directed by Rian Johnson. “It picks up where VII left off.
- 3/23/2017
- by Anthony Breznican
- PEOPLE.com
Just under thee years after she became the director of USC Annenberg School for Journalism, Willow Bay today has shattered a glass ceiling at the SoCal institute. The former Good Morning America/Sunday co-anchor has been named the dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Bay is the first woman to hold the post in the school's 45-year history. She will take over from current dean Ernest Wilson III on July 1. "Willow Bay is exactly the right person…...
- 3/14/2017
- Deadline TV
Veteran journalist Willow Bay has been named the Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, the school announced Monday. The former co-anchor of ABC News’ “Good Morning America/Sunday” and senior editor of Huffington Post — who is also the wife of Disney CEO Bob Iger — has served as director of the journalism school, where she launched its state-of-the-art Media Center. Bay (above with Iger) will take on her new role as of July 1, making her the first female dean of USC Annenberg. Also Read: First Look at Disney World's 'Avatar' Land: Whoopi Goldberg Loses Her Mind (Video) “Willow Bay is exactly.
- 3/14/2017
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
"Hillblazer" is the Clinton camp's moniker for a bundler who has collected more than $100,000 in donations for the nominee since her campaign launched in April 2015. The list is dotted with Hollywood names from actors (Ben Affleck, Eva Longoria) and directors (Steven Spielberg) to agents (Bryan Lourd, Chris Silbermann) and executives (Bob Iger, along with wife Willow Bay). Univision chairman Haim Saban and wife Cheryl top the list at $13.5 million. Many also have been big personal donors to Hillary super PACs and to the Democratic Party. Totals for the 10 Hollywood donors and duos here include
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- 11/3/2016
- by Andy Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After a star-studded fundraising weekend in Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod, Hillary Clinton arrives in Los Angeles on Monday for another round of high-wattage Hollywood fundraisers, as well as a Monday taping of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Clinton will start off her fundraising tour at the home of NBA legend Magic Johnson and his wife Cookie. The Johnson event will be followed by another big bash at the home of media mogul and longtime donor Haim Saban. The event will be co-hosted by Saban’s wife Cheryl as well as Disney CEO Bob Iger, L.A. Olympics bid chief Casey Wasserman,...
- 8/22/2016
- by Itay Hod
- The Wrap
Last night was the biggest event of the year for the movie industry. So it seems only fitting that the film that will be on everyone’s lips at the 2016 Oscars should be represented in some way. Why not with fashion? Willow Bay did not disappoint. The wife of current Disney CEO Bob Iger was in a Rodarte Yoda evening gown that was first featured at 2014's New York Fashion Week. The Rodarte collection also featured Star Wars gowns with images of Luke Skywalker, C-3P0, the Death Star, and more. Did Willow Bay choose Yoda because he is one of her favorite characters? Was it because the black and gold trim suited her complexion? Or is Bob Iger trying to tell us something about “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” Perhaps Ghost!Yoda is in our cinematic future. Photo Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP...
- 2/24/2015
- by Donna Dickens
- Hitfix
By Michelle McCue and Melissa Thompson
The Oscars are always filled with memorable moments, but these are the seven we think will be talked about long after Sunday’s Academy Awards.
Photos: ©A.M.P.A.S.
1. Dame Julie Andrews surprised the crowd at the end of the Sound Of Music tribute and brought the house down at the Dolby Theatre. The tribute for the beloved 50 year old movie was introduced by Scarlett Johansson and beautifully sung by Lady Gaga.
2. Tears from David Oyelowo after the “Glory” performance from Common and John Legend. “Glory” went onto win Best Song.
3. Tim McGraw singing “I’m Not Gonna Miss You.”
4. Opening number, “Moving Pictures,” made us fall in love with movies all over again.
5. John Travolta and Idina Menzel on stage together to present Best Song after last year’s “Adele Dazeem” snafu. Idina Menzel introduced Travolta “Glom Gazingo”.
6. Eddie Murphy rockin...
The Oscars are always filled with memorable moments, but these are the seven we think will be talked about long after Sunday’s Academy Awards.
Photos: ©A.M.P.A.S.
1. Dame Julie Andrews surprised the crowd at the end of the Sound Of Music tribute and brought the house down at the Dolby Theatre. The tribute for the beloved 50 year old movie was introduced by Scarlett Johansson and beautifully sung by Lady Gaga.
2. Tears from David Oyelowo after the “Glory” performance from Common and John Legend. “Glory” went onto win Best Song.
3. Tim McGraw singing “I’m Not Gonna Miss You.”
4. Opening number, “Moving Pictures,” made us fall in love with movies all over again.
5. John Travolta and Idina Menzel on stage together to present Best Song after last year’s “Adele Dazeem” snafu. Idina Menzel introduced Travolta “Glom Gazingo”.
6. Eddie Murphy rockin...
- 2/23/2015
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Former Good Morning America Sunday co-anchor Willow Bay today was appointed the director of USC’s School of Journalism. “The breadth of Willow Bay’s experiences, skills and talents is extraordinary,” said Ernest Wilson III, dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism of the former ABC, CNN and NBC correspondent and Lifetime producer. “Her leadership will help our innovative school aggressively continue our path of creating and defining the digital future.’ Currently an editor at the Huffington Post and a special correspondent for Bloomberg News, Bay will take over her duties at USC in July. “I look forward to leading the school as it educates and inspires the next generation of journalists and public relations professionals for the future and contributes groundbreaking academic research into these fields,” said Bay today. Bay is married to Disney CEO Bob Iger.
- 3/26/2014
- by DOMINIC PATTEN
- Deadline TV
All weekend long, the stars stepped out to countless glittering events celebrating the Oscars. The Hollywood Reporter was on hand at all of the A-list bashes around town. Find notes from inside the action below. Photos: Photos: Oscars 2014 Red Carpet Arrivals Sunday, March 2 The Vanity Fair Party 10:52 p.m. Paul Rudd laughing with Martin Short just inside the Vanity Fair party. Graydon Carter chatting with Bob Iger and Willow Bay. Robert Towne bends Jeff Berg's ear as Donatella Versace, Barry Diller, Glenn Close, Annie Leibovitz, Reese Witherspoon, U2's The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr. congregate nearby. 11:01
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- 2/28/2014
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Washington, February 27: Dalai Lama has revealed that he is not a fan of Hollywood and considers it a "waste of time".
During an interview with HuffPost Live's Willow Bay, the Buddhist leader said that he hasn't watched Hollywood movies in over 20 years as he considers it bad for his eyes and a "waste of time", and admitted that he prefers listening to BBC Radio and CNN, Huffington Post reported.
However, he added that the technology used is "wonderful", but should be kept in control. (Ani)...
During an interview with HuffPost Live's Willow Bay, the Buddhist leader said that he hasn't watched Hollywood movies in over 20 years as he considers it bad for his eyes and a "waste of time", and admitted that he prefers listening to BBC Radio and CNN, Huffington Post reported.
However, he added that the technology used is "wonderful", but should be kept in control. (Ani)...
- 2/27/2014
- by Lohit Reddy
- RealBollywood.com
Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy may not be up for reelection until 2016, but some of Hollywood’s leading executives are taking no chances with the future of one of the Democrats’ most reliable champions of civil rights and environmental legislation. On Tuesday, Feb. 18, Disney’s Bob Iger and his wife Willow Bay will open their Los Angeles mansion for a fundraiser on behalf of the Senate President Pro Tempore -- that makes him third in line for the White House -- who remains the only Democrat ever elected to represent Vermont in either house of Congress. Co-hosts include Wendy and Barry Meyer,
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- 1/30/2014
- by Tina Daunt
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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