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Casey Wasserman Enters the Film and Television Talent Business
In a surprising move, Casey Wasserman, founder of the Wasserman Agency and marketing firm, has acquired Brillstein, a management and production company. This marks Wasserman's entry into the traditional film and television talent industry, an area he had previously avoided in order to differentiate himself from his legendary grandfather, Lou Wasserman, a prominent figure in Hollywood.
Wasserman's decision comes at a time of significant change and consolidation in the representation business, with major agencies like CAA and WME making bold moves. Wasserman believes that the boundaries between sports, music, and entertainment are becoming increasingly blurred, presenting a substantial opportunity in the production space.
The acquisition of Brillstein by Wasserman is seen as a significant development in the representation world, as it brings together agents and managers under one roof. While Wasserman acknowledges the legal distinctions between agents and managers, he is confident that his company is operating within the regulatory environment.
Contrary to the trend of rolling up management companies, Wasserman does not believe it is the right approach. However, he anticipates further changes and acquisitions in the management space as the industry continues to evolve.
During the podcast episode, Wasserman also touches on the ongoing strike in the entertainment industry and the challenges of organizing the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.