Los Angeles, CA — December 13, 2024 — Today, Penske Media Corporation (PMC) announced that Billboard, IndieWire, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, and Variety received a total of 122 awards at the 17th Annual National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards, presented by the Los Angeles Press Club on December 1. These prestigious honors highlighted the exceptional work of PMC’s journalists, photographers, and media teams, further solidifying the company's leadership in entertainment media.
PMC outlets were recognized across the board for their outstanding contributions in a variety of categories, including Print Journalist of the Year, Online Journalist of the Year as well as investigative reporting, photography, business journalism, critical reviews and more. The awards underscore the high level of talent and creativity within the PMC family and their continued impact on the world of arts and entertainment journalism.
Penske Media Penske Media Corporation Takes Honors in the Following Key Categories:
PRINT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
- Chris Willman, Variety
- 2nd: Tatiana Siegel, Variety
- 3rd: Seth Abramovitch, The Hollywood Reporter
ONLINE JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR — Tied to an Organization
- Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter
- 2nd: Clayton Davis, Variety
ONLINE JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR — Independent
- 3rd: A.D. Amorosi, Variety, Flood, SPIN
PHOTOJOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
- 2nd: Dan Doperalski, Variety
CRITIC — ANY MEDIA PLATFORM (BROADCAST, PRINT, OR ONLINE)
Film Critic — Under 1,000 words
- Chris Willman, Variety
- 2nd: Siddhant Adlakha, JoySauce/IndieWire/Variety
Film Critic — Over 1,000 words
- David Ehrlich, IndieWire
- 2nd: Owen Gleiberman, Variety
TV Critic
- 2nd: Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter
Music Critic
- 3rd: Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter
ANY MEDIA PLATFORM (BROADCAST, PRINT, OR ONLINE)
Celebrity Investigative, Any Media
- Seija Rankin, Jason Rovou, Stephanie Fischette, Nekesa Mumbi Moody, Maer Roshan, The Hollywood Reporter, “Will Ferrell on Navigating His Best Friend's Transition in ‘Will & Harper’”
- 2nd: Gary Baum, The Hollywood Reporter, “Get Me Bryan Freedman!”
- 3rd: Tatiana Siegel, Variety, “Crisis at Marvel: Jonathan Majors Back-Up Plans, ‘The Marvels’ Reshoots, Reviving Original Avengers and More Issues Revealed”
Headline, Any Media
- 3rd: Tom Bruneggemann, IndieWire, “They Don’t Climax in IMAX — or, Why Films with Sexy Sizzle Are Rare Today”
BOOK
Non-Fiction Book
- 3rd: Ramin Setoodeh, HarperCollins Publishers, “Apprentice in Wonderland: How Donald Trump and Mark Burnett Took America Through the Looking Glass”
PHOTOGRAPHY/ART (PRINT OR ONLINE)
News Photo
- Michael Buckner, Haley Kluge, Jennifer Dorn, Variety, “SAG Fran Strike Cover”
- 3rd: Roger Kisby, Rolling Stone, “F1 Opener”
Portrait Photo, TV/Film
- Dan Doperalski, Jennifer Dorn, Haley Kluge, Variety, “David Oyelowo Portrait”
- 3rd: Collier Schorr, Rolling Stone, “Kristen Stewart Uncensored: ‘I Want to Do the Gayest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in Your Life’”
Portrait Photo, Music/Arts
- 3rd: Ash Barhamand, Ava Selbach, Peter B. Cury and Julia & Vincent, The Hollywood Reporter, “Renee Rapp”
Feature Photo
- 2nd: Ash Barhamand, Ava Selbach, Peter B. Cury and Dan Winters, The Hollywood Reporter, “Nathan Fielder + Emma Stone”
- 3rd: Jenny Sargent, Naomy Pedroza and Joelle Grace Taylor, Billboard, “Lainey Wilson”
Action Photo
- Chris Willman, Variety, “Brandi Carlile concert photo/The Best Concerts of 2023”
Photo Essay
- Ash Barhamand, Ava Selbach, Naomy Pedroza, Peter B. Cury, Munachi Osegbu, The Hollywood Reporter, “Hollywood’s Top Stylists”
- 2nd: Alexi Lubomirski, Jennifer Dorn and Haley Kluge, Variety, “Actors on Actors (Oscars)”
Illustration
- 2nd: Neil Jamieson, Haley Kluge and Jennifer Dorn, Variety, “Star Trek Illustrations”
Page Layout
- 2nd: Haley Kluge, Ted Keller, Francesco Muzzi and Jennifer Dorn, Variety, “AI Splash”
Cover Art
- Joe Hutchinson, Rolling Stone, “May 2024 Billie Eilish cover”
- 2nd: Haley Kluge, Jennifer Dorn and Jonny Marlow, Variety, “Anya Taylor Joy Cover”
- 3rd: Peter B. Cury and Zuzanna Rogatty, The Hollywood Reporter, “The Oscar Issue”
PRINT/ONLINE
Business, Film, Print/Online
- 2nd: Rebecca Rubin, Variety, “‘We’re Still Here’: How AMC Theatres Is Struggling With $4.5 Billion in Debt and Surviving Thanks to Taylor Swift, Viral Popcorn Buckets and More”
- 3rd: Gene Maddaus, Variety, “Mickey Mouse, Long a Symbol in Copyright Wars, to Enter Public Domain: ‘It’s Finally Happening’”
Business, TV/Streaming, Print/Online
- Tatiana Siegel, Variety, “Inside the Battle for CNN: Jeff Zucker, David Zaslav, Chris Licht and 18 Months of Crazy Backstabbing”
- 2nd: Jennifer Maas, Variety, “Peak TV Has Peaked: From Exhausted Talent to Massive Losses, the Writers Strike Magnifies an Industry in Freefall”
Business, Music related, Print/Online
- 3rd: Eric Renner Brown, Billboard, “Sphere digital feature”
Business, Tech/Design/Arts related, Print/Online
- 2nd: Seth Abramovitch, The Hollywood Reporter, “A Pellicano Target’s Second Act”
Entertainment Industry/Arts Investigative, Print/Online
- Tatiana Siegel, Variety, “Crisis at Marvel: Jonathan Majors Back-Up Plans, ‘The Marvels’ Reshoots, Reviving Original Avengers and More Issues Revealed”
Obituary/In Appreciation, Film Personalities, Print/Online
- Owen Gleiberman, Variety, “Remembering Piper Laurie in ‘Carrie’ and ‘The Hustler’: A Special Combination of Vulnerability and Power”
Obituary/In Appreciation, TV Personalities, Print/Online
- 2nd: Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, “Critic’s Appreciation: Matthew Perry Masterfully Walked the Line Between Mirth and Melancholy”
Obituary/In Appreciation, Music and Other Arts Personalities, Print/Online
- 3rd: Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, “Tony Bennett Gave an Iconic 'Goodfellas' Moment Its Charge — but He Didn't Like Being Associated with It”
PRINT (NEWSPAPERS OR MAGAZINES)
General News, Print
- 3rd: Brent Lang, Tatiana Siegel and Matt Donnelly, Variety, “Showstopper! Strikes Plunge Hollywood Into Chaos With Pricey Movie Delays, Pay Battles and AI Anxiety”
CELEBRITY NEWS, PRINT
Diversity in the TV/Film Industry, Print
- Brent Lang, Variety, “Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on Her Revealing Diane von Furstenberg Documentary and Directing a ‘Star Wars’ Movie”
- 3rd: Nekesa Mumbi Moody, The Hollywood Reporter, “Oprah and ‘The Color Purple’ Stars on the New Musical Remake: ‘It’s Bright. It’s Vibrant. It’s Us’”
Diversity in the Music/Performing Arts/Arts Industry, Print
- 2nd: Katie Bain, Billboard, “Finding Harmony”
- 3rd: Thania Garcia, Variety, “Meet the Women Managing Música Mexicana’s Breakout Stars, From Xavi to Yahritza Y Su Esencia and More”
Personality Profile, Film Industry — Under 2,500 Words, Print
- 2nd: Kate Aurthur, Variety, “Carey Mulligan Never Felt Like a ‘Proper Actor.’ Then Came ‘Maestro’: ‘I’m Going to Absolutely Do It All’”
Personality Profile, TV/Streaming Industry — Under 2,500 Words, Print
- 2nd: Emily Longeretta, Variety, “‘It Was Never My Intention to Be a Heartthrob’: Josh Hartnett on Finding His Focus, Shedding the Darkness of ‘Black Mirror’ and That ‘Bats--- Crazy’ ‘Trap’ Script”
Personality Profile, Music and Other Arts — Under 2,500 Words, Print
- 2nd: Kim Masters, The Hollywood Reporter, “Linda Yaccarino’s Very Unmerry X Mess”
Personality Profile, Film Industry — Over 2,500 Words, Print
- Alex Morris, Rolling Stone, “Kristen Stewart Uncensored: ‘I Want to Do the Gayest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in Your Life’”
Personality Profile, TV/Streaming Industry — Over 2,500 Words, Print
- Seth Abramovitch, The Hollywood Reporter, “Cheryl Hines … as First Lady? The ‘Curb’ Star on Life After Larry and Marriage to RFK Jr.”
- 3rd: Kate Aurthur, Variety, “Long Live Shiv Roy: Sarah Snook Tells All on That ‘Succession’ Ending, Her Pregnancy and Crying Through the Finale”
Personality Profile, Music and Other Arts — Over 2,500 Words, Print
- 2nd: Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, “Billie Eilish Would Like to Reintroduce Herself”
- 3rd: Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, “Teezo Touchdown: Birth of a Rock Star”
Film Industry Feature — Under 1,000 Words, Print
- Katcy Stephan, Variety, “‘MoviePass, MovieCrash’: Founder Stacy Spikes on Mitch Lowe, Racial Bias and Where the Company Stands Today”
- 2nd: Beatrice Verhoeven and Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter, “As the Actors Strike Ends, Many Awards Contenders and Campaigners Are Scrambling to Make Up for Lost Time”
TV Industry Feature — Under 1,000 Words, Print
- Lacey Rose, The Hollywood Reporter, “Dan Harmon Is Ready to Talk About All of It (Including the Justin Roiland Drama)”
- 3rd: Katcy Stephan, Variety, “‘Futurama:’ John DiMaggio on His Salary Battle and Return as Bender”
Music/Performing Arts Industry Feature — Under 1,000 Words, Print
- Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, “Dolly Parton on Turning Down the Super Bowl and Her New Rock Album: ‘I Don’t Want It to Be Half-Ass Country’”
- 2nd: Jon Burlingame, Variety, “‘Law & Order’ Composer Mike Post Creates New Bluegrass and Blues Album”
Film Industry Feature — Over 1,000 Words, Print
- Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter, “‘Schindler’s List’: An Oral History of a Masterpiece”
- 2nd: Jon Burlingame, Variety, “‘Maestro’: How Bradley Cooper Turned Bernstein’s Classical Music into a Film Score”
- 3rd: Adam B. Vary, Variety, “‘The Blair Witch Project’ Actors Call Out ‘Reprehensible Behavior’ After Missing Out on Profits for Decades: ‘Don’t Do What We Did’ (EXCLUSIVE)”
TV Industry Feature — Over 1,000 Words, Print
- 2nd: Pamela McClintock, The Hollywood Reporter, “Anderson Cooper on His Complicated Vanderbilt Legacy and CNN After Chris Licht”
Visual Arts/Architecture Feature — Over 1,000 Words, Print
- 3rd: Gary Baum, The Hollywood Reporter, “Museums Are Reckoning With Looted Art. Now It’s LACMA’s Turn”
Celebrity Feature, Print
- Rebecca Keegan, Katie Kilkenny, The Hollywood Reporter, “Fran Drescher’s Role of a Lifetime”
Columnist, Print
- 3rd: Andre Gee, Rolling Stone
Commentary Analysis/Trend, Film, Print
- 2nd: Brent Lang, Variety, “How Steven Spielberg Dominated Culture and the 1994 Oscars With ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Schindler’s List’”
- 3rd: Lacey Rose and Lesley Goldberg, The Hollywood Reporter, “Why Hollywood Is in the Throes of an IP Frenzy”
Commentary Analysis/Trend, TV, Print
- 2nd: Michael Schneider, Variety, “Repeats, Reality and 'Yellowstone': How Network TV Is Marketing Fall Lineups Without Many Scripted Favorites”
- 3rd: Clayton Davis, Variety, “‘Love on the Spectrum’ Is Showing Me Examples of How My Autistic Son Could Be as an Adult — and It’s Amazing”
Commentary Analysis/Trend, Music, Print
- Chris Willman, Variety, “Jason Aldean Already Had the Most Contemptible Country Song of the Decade. The Video Is Worse”
- 3rd: Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, “Breaking Through Rock Journalism’s Boys’ Club”
Entertainment Publication, Print
- 2nd: Billboard, Rebecca Milzoff, “Billboard: The Sports Issue”
TV/VIDEO/FILM
Personality Profile, Film Personalities, TV
- 2nd: Lesley Corral, Francesca Manto, Dominoe Ibarra and Lacey Rose, The Hollywood Reporter, “Glen Powell Shares His Hollywood Firsts: From Singing 'Unwritten' To 'Spy Kids' Set, Twisters & More”
RADIO/PODCASTS
Anchor/Host, Radio/Podcast
- 2nd: Michael Schneider, Clayton Davis, Jazz Tangcay, Jenelle Riley and Emily Longeretta, Variety, “Variety's Award Circuit Podcast Hosts”
One-on-One Interview, Film Personalities, Radio/Podcast
- 2nd: Clayton Davis, Variety, “Selena Gomez on Her Cannes Win for Best Actress, ‘Only Murders’ and Potentially Becoming Most Emmy-Nominated Latina Producer”
One-on-One Interview, TV Personalities, Radio/Podcast
- 2nd: Michael Schneider, Variety, “Day Eating With Seth Meyers: The 'Late Night' Host Counts Down His Top 10 Pizza List”
One-on-One Interview, Other Arts Personalities, Radio/Podcast
- 3rd: Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, “Geddy Lee Tells All: 'My Effin' Life' — and Rush's Possible Future”
Best Arts or Entertainment Regular Podcast
- Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, “Rolling Stone Music Now”
- 3rd: Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter, “Awards Chatter”
ONLINE (CONTENT EXCLUSIVE TO THE INTERNET)
Hard News, TV/Streaming Related, Online
- 2nd: Krystie Lee Yandoli, Rolling Stone, “Chaos, Comedy, and ‘Crying Rooms’: Inside Jimmy Fallon’s ‘Tonight Show’”
Hard News, Film Related, Online
- 2nd: Mia Galuppo and Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, “Netflix Enters Its Dan Lin Era”
- 3rd: Ellise Shafer and Alex Ritman, Variety, “Alan Menken, Sarah Sherman, Alex Winter and Larry Charles Join Jewish Creatives Supporting Jonathan Glazer’s Oscars Speech in Open Letter (EXCLUSIVE)”
Hard News, Music/Arts Related, Online
- David Browne, Nancy Dillon, Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, “‘They Wanted to Dance in Peace. And They Got Slaughtered’”
- 2nd: Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, “How Jason Aldean Cynically Built “Small Town” to Appeal to Trump Country”
Soft News, TV/Streaming Related, Online
- Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, “Bryan Lee O'Malley Wanted 'Scott Pilgrim Takes Off' to Surprise You”
- 2nd: Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, “Hulu’s ‘Under the Bridge’ Tells the Story of Reena Virk — and The Notorious B.I.G.”
- 3rd: Meredith Woerner, Variety, “The True Story Behind Truman Capote’s Ashes Being Auctioned Off on ‘Feud’”
Soft News, Film Related, Online
- 3rd: Ryan Gajewski, The Hollywood Reporter, “Animation at a Crossroads as Hope Mixes with Anxiety”
Soft News, Music/Arts Related, Online
- Jem Aswad, Variety, “Why David Bowie Killed Ziggy Stardust, 50 Years Ago Today”
Diversity in the TV/Streaming Industry, Online
- Abbey White, The Hollywood Reporter, “How The CW’s ‘Sight Unseen’ Built a Production For and Driven By Blind and Low Vision Creatives”
Diversity in the Film Industry, Online
- Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, “For Female Creatives, Hollywood Is Still Just as ‘Bleak’ as Some Fear, but It Doesn’t Have to Be”
- 2nd: Clayton Davis, Variety, “Black Women Executives Are Exiting Studio Leadership Posts and Hollywood’s Doing Nothing About It”
- 3rd: Sharareh Drury, Variety, “‘Dune 2’ Criticized for Lack of Middle Eastern and North African Inclusion and Influences: ‘A Missed Opportunity’”
Diversity in the Music/Performing Arts Industry, Online
- 3rd: Abbey White, The Hollywood Reporter, “A Neuro-Inclusive Take on ‘Spring Awakening’: ‘We Don’t Need to Break People Down’”
Personality Profile, Film Personalities, Online
- Kate Erbland, IndieWire, “Kirsten Dunst Is Our Most Reasonable Movie Star”
- 3rd: Clayton Davis, Variety, “Paul Giamatti on ‘Sideways’ Oscar Snub, the Secret to His ‘Holdovers’ Lazy Eye and How He’s Still ‘Figuring Out How to Act on Film’”
Personality Profile, Music Personalities, Online
- 3rd: Ellise Shafer, Variety, “Peter Doherty and Katia deVidas on Making Doc ‘Stranger in My Own Skin’ About the ‘Terror and Danger’ of Drug Addiction — and Falling in Love in the Process”
TV Feature, Online
- 2nd: J. Kim Murphy, Variety, “‘Winning Time’ Ends in Defeat With an Awkward, Surprise Series Finale”
Film Feature, Actor Related, Online
- 2nd: Katcy Stephan, Variety, “Tom Hardy on His Wild ‘Bikeriders’ Accent and Knowing ‘Furiosa’ Is ‘Special’ (Without Even Seeing It Yet)”
- 3rd: Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, “94-Year-Old June Squibb Does Her Own Stunts in ‘Thelma,’ a Sundance Spin on ‘Mission: Impossible’”
Film Feature, Filmmaker Related, Online
- 2nd: J. Kim Murphy, Variety, “‘Koyaanisqatsi’ Director Godfrey Reggio Unravels His New Odyssey ‘Once Within a Time’ Amid Humanity’s Accelerating Self-Destruction”
- 3rd: Todd Gilchrist, Variety, “Director Martin Brest Revisits the Triumphs of 'Beverly Hills Cop' and 'Midnight Run,' and Reflects On His Post-'Gigli' Hollywood Exile”
Film Feature, Production/History Related, Online
- David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, “Hollywood’s 20 Most Erotic Movies, Ranked”
- 3rd: Gary Baum and Katie Kilkenny, The Hollywood Reporter, “Unmasking the AMPTP: Hollywood Labor’s Opaque Nemesis”
Theater Feature, Online
- 2nd: Brent Lang, Variety, “How Broadway’s ‘Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club’ Pulls Off Its Audacious, Sensual 75-Minute Prologue”
Celebrity Feature, Online
- Pamela Chelin, Variety, “Martin Scorsese Hosts Robbie Robertson Tribute Concert, With Jackson Browne and Others Paying Musical Homage”
Columnist, Online
- 2nd: Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, “The Download, a column by Hollywood Reporter Senior Music Editor Mesfin Fekadu”
Commentary Analysis/Trend, Film, Online
- Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, “A New Wave of Films Experiments With How We See Climate Change”
- 2nd: Sharareh Drury, Variety, “‘Dune 2’ Criticized for Lack of Middle Eastern and North African Inclusion and Influences: ‘A Missed Opportunity’”
- 3rd: Carolyn Giardina, The Hollywood Reporter, “VFX Pros Expose The Hidden Costs of Selling a Movie as ‘Real’”
Commentary Analysis/Trend, TV, Online
- Clayton Davis, Variety, “‘Love on the Spectrum’ Is Showing Me Examples of How My Autistic Son Could Be as an Adult — and It’s Amazing”
- 2nd: Brian Steinberg, Variety, “TV Talkers From Pat McAfee to Rachel Maddow Gain New License to Blast Bosses On-Air”
Commentary Analysis/Trend, Other Arts, Online
- James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, “When a Ketamine Therapy Visit Goes Horribly Wrong”
Entertainment Website, Online
- The Hollywood Reporter Staff, The Hollywood Reporter, “THR.com”
- 3rd: Variety, Variety, “variety.com”
ENTERTAINMENT BLOG BY AN INDIVIDUAL NOT TIED TO AN ORGANIZATION
Entertainment Blog
- 2nd: Aaron Couch and Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, “Heat Vision”
SOCIAL MEDIA
Best Journalistic use of Social Media to Tell or Enhance a Story
- 2nd: Rachel Seo and Julia MacCary, Variety, “Variety Actors on Actors Season 20”
- 3rd: Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, “The Hollywood Reporter music articles told through Instagram Stories”
About Penske Media Corporation
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate monthly audience of more than 350 million. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media and live events, reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Artforum, Gold Derby and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several of the most iconic and vital cultural events such as The Golden Globes, Country Music Awards (ACMs), Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs), New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, SXSW, American Music Awards (AMAs), LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week, and ATX Television Festival. Penske Media is headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, for more information, please visit www.PMC.com.
Penske Media Corporation (PMC), the leading global media, live events and data analytics company, recently released findings from their pop culture study, Power of Shared Cultural Connections. The study explores the powerful impact of shared cultural moments and immersive events on consumer engagement, revealing that these experiences resonate profoundly with audiences, foster lifelong memories and community bonds, and offer brands a unique opportunity to cultivate loyalty and engagement through these immersive events.
“At PMC, our research shows that brands have a unique opportunity to be a part of cultural moments by engaging in shared experiences which forge deep emotional connections and loyalty that traditional media channels cannot match,” said Dan Owen, EVP, GM, Strategic Solutions Group at PMC. “As a conduit for creating these collective experiences, PMC helps our partners tap into the power of pop culture and immersive events, embedding themselves in the memories that shape fandoms.”
Key takeaways from the “Power of Shared Cultural Connections” study include:
Major pop culture experiences are a pathway to lifelong memories and provide the thrill of unexpected connection. At a moment in time when much of the world is more isolated than ever, audiences want moments that fuel gratitude and bring us closer to ourselves and each other. 77% say major pop culture experiences are a source of lifelong memories, and 72% seek out pop culture events that offer immersion into the worlds of their favorite shows, movies and artists (86% among Gen Z respondents).
Shared cultural experiences are powerful community builders, particularly when they resonate deeply with the audience’s passions and interests. The more personal and human the stories surrounding the moment are, the more impactful it becomes. 63% seek out pop culture experiences that offer deeper connections to personal interests, and 56% of Gen Z respondents say that they seek out pop culture events that offer deeper community connections with like-minded fans.
Events are always in the plans. 92% plan to attend or wish to attend pop cultural events, including music, film, and art festivals, concerts, immersive experiences and exhibits, in the next year.
Award shows are a vital part of pop culture, connecting us with our favorite artists and acting as a unifying force that creates memorable historical moments. 87% of audiences identify as being“obsessed” or “casual” fans of major award shows. Award shows foster community, with 58% saying they talk to their friends and family about them.
Brands have an incredible power as the facilitators of shared cultural connection. Creating exclusive access that brings fans closer to those moments, and the artists they love most, yields extreme loyalty. 63% consider themselves a super fan of a musician (80% of Gen Z) with 43% saying that if their favorite music artist wears/endorses something, it influences their purchase decision. Additionally, 52% would feel more loyal to a brand if it provided access to live-streamed cultural events.
The findings of PMC’s Power of Shared Cultural Connections study demonstrate that shared cultural moments profoundly influence consumer engagement. This research highlights the critical role that brands play in facilitating these vital connections and creating experiences that not only build emotional ties but also foster enduring loyalty.
To explore the full details of PMC’s research, download the study at: www.pmc.com/2025popculturereport
Report Methodology
In August 2024, Penske Media Corporation (PMC) surveyed a highly targeted segment of 1200 engaged, pop-culturally aware individuals to explore their interest and interaction with live experiences, events, and key cultural moments; as well as the significance these hold for fans, artists, and the brands that make them happen. This study incorporates a blend of qualitative, quantitative, and first-party data, with a spotlight on distinct generational groups: Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers.
Sportico, the global media and publishing leader in the business of sports, today announces the appointment of Tony Haskel as its new Chief Revenue Officer. In his role, Haskel will oversee all aspects of Sportico’s business operations across all platforms, including sales, marketing, international ventures, licensing, social media, membership growth, branded content, and live events. He will report to Paul Rainey, Executive Vice President, Operations & Finance, Penske Media Corporation, and be based in New York.
“We are very excited to welcome Tony Haskel to the Sportico team,” said Rainey. “Tony joins Sportico at a pivotal moment in its growth as the brand continues to define what it means to be the global leader in sports business media. His leadership will be key as Sportico expands its reach and deepens its influence, all while continuing to deliver cutting-edge insights and industry-leading content.”
“I’m honored to join Sportico at this crucial stage of its growth,” said Haskel. “In just four years, Sportico has become the go-to destination for professionals looking for trusted insights, data, analytics, breaking stories, industry profiles and community within the ever-growing sports industry. I’m excited to contribute to the brand’s ongoing success and to work alongside such a talented team of journalists and business operators.”
Haskel brings his extensive experience to Sportico, having previously served as New York and New England Sales Director at Mansueto Ventures, where he spearheaded partnership opportunities across a diverse portfolio of platforms, channels and content. His extensive career includes leadership roles such as Head of Partnerships at Bloomberg Live (Bloomberg Media), Vice President and Publisher of Money (Time Inc.), Executive Sales Director of FORTUNE (Time Inc.), National Advertising Director of Bonnier Mountain Group and Advertising Director of Condé Nast Portfolio.
Haskel graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor of Arts degree, with post graduate certifications from New York University and Columbia Business School. He also serves on the advisory board of the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business and the Kelly Brush Foundation.
About Sportico
Sportico is a digital content platform providing sports industry news, data, insights, strategies, leadership and live media experiences for professionals in the $600 billion sports industry. Launched by Penske Media in 2020 as the global media and publishing leader in the business of sports, Sportico has offices in New York and Los Angeles with reporters throughout the world committed to providing breaking news in the sports business industry covered by the world’s top journalists.
Sportico, the global media and publishing leader in the business of sports, today announces the appointment of Tony Haskel as its new Chief Revenue Officer. In his role, Haskel will oversee all aspects of Sportico’s business operations across all platforms, including sales, marketing, international ventures, licensing, social media, membership growth, branded content, and live events. He will report to Paul Rainey, Executive Vice President, Operations & Finance, Penske Media Corporation, and be based in New York.
“We are very excited to welcome Tony Haskel to the Sportico team,” said Rainey. “Tony joins Sportico at a pivotal moment in its growth as the brand continues to define what it means to be the global leader in sports business media. His leadership will be key as Sportico expands its reach and deepens its influence, all while continuing to deliver cutting-edge insights and industry-leading content.”
“I’m honored to join Sportico at this crucial stage of its growth,” said Haskel. “In just four years, Sportico has become the go-to destination for professionals looking for trusted insights, data, analytics, breaking stories, industry profiles and community within the ever-growing sports industry. I’m excited to contribute to the brand’s ongoing success and to work alongside such a talented team of journalists and business operators.”
Haskel brings his extensive experience to Sportico, having previously served as New York and New England Sales Director at Mansueto Ventures, where he spearheaded partnership opportunities across a diverse portfolio of platforms, channels and content. His extensive career includes leadership roles such as Head of Partnerships at Bloomberg Live (Bloomberg Media), Vice President and Publisher of Money (Time Inc.), Executive Sales Director of FORTUNE (Time Inc.), National Advertising Director of Bonnier Mountain Group and Advertising Director of Condé Nast Portfolio.
Haskel graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor of Arts degree, with post graduate certifications from New York University and Columbia Business School. He also serves on the advisory board of the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business and the Kelly Brush Foundation.
About Sportico
Sportico is a digital content platform providing sports industry news, data, insights, strategies, leadership and live media experiences for professionals in the $600 billion sports industry. Launched by Penske Media in 2020 as the global media and publishing leader in the business of sports, Sportico has offices in New York and Los Angeles with reporters throughout the world committed to providing breaking news in the sports business industry covered by the world’s top journalists.
Today, Fairchild Media Group (FMG) announced the appointment of Melissa Rocco to Senior Vice President of Sales. In her role, Rocco will oversee the sales team and be responsible for driving global brand partnerships, working with clients and agency partners. She will also be responsible for optimizing budgets while driving revenue for Fairchild Media’s portfolio of brands which include Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), WWD Weekend, Beauty Inc., Footwear News (FN), Sourcing Journal, Rivet and Fairchild Live Events, which commands a combined global audience of 18 million. She will report to Amanda Smith, CEO, Fairchild Media Group and be based in New York.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Melissa to the Fairchild team,” said Smith. “She’s an incredibly accomplished sales leader with a deep understanding of the marketplace and will bring a new level of digital innovation to the team. Her spirit, drive and leadership is absolutely key to our path forward and I’m excited for everything that’s in store.”
"It's truly an exciting time for the fashion, beauty, and retail industries," said Rocco. "Digital innovation and technology have never been more integral to the customer experience, and the iconic Fairchild brands are right at the center of that conversation. I'm thrilled to be working with this team and all of the FMG partners to build on what has been accomplished and create new opportunities to tell their stories.”
Prior to joining Fairchild, Rocco was the Senior Vice President of Sales of Fast Company, leading all global sales efforts, initiatives, and brand partnerships. After three years as one of FastCo’s most successful sales directors, Rocco took over Fast Company‘s traditional role of Publisher in October 2020. She guided the sales team through the most challenging stretches in media and business to contribute to parent company Mansueto Ventures’ best-ever financial performance. Rocco and her team oversaw the success of all-new platforms and programs built to respond dynamically to editorial, custom, partner, and audience needs. Prior to Fast Company, Rocco was a successful digital-first seller at iconic media properties, including Time Inc., IDG, Meredith, and more. Rocco holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and print publishing from Ithaca College.
About Fairchild Media Group
Fairchild Media Group (FMG), a division of Penske Media Corporation (PMC), is the leading source of fashion news and analysis for industry leaders and the global fashion community. Established in 1892 by Edmund Fairchild, Fairchild Media Group brands today include Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), Footwear News (FN), Beauty Inc, Sourcing Journal (SJ), Rivet, Fairchild Live, and Fairchild Studio. Fairchild Media Group’s Fairchild Studio produces over 100 pieces of programming in partnership with blue chip brands including industry reports, video series, and podcasts. The WWD Voices podcast provides news, commentary, and industry insights, as well as behind-the-scenes stories from the world of fashion apparel, luxury, retail, and beauty, hosted by WWD editors with special guests. FMG content reaches an 18 million+ international audience of business executives and fashion enthusiasts across print, digital, social, and over 25 annual thought-leader events, including its renowned CEO Summits.
Today, Dick Clark Productions (DCP) announced the appointment of Diana Miller as Executive Vice President, Talent. In her new role, Miller will lead the talent team, overseeing all aspects of talent booking and management across the company’s wide-ranging portfolio of live events and shows, including the Golden Globes, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest. She will report to Jay Penske, CEO, Dick Clark Productions. Miller will officially join the team on January 15, 2025 and be based in Los Angeles.
“Diana’s exceptional background, deep relationships and passion for entertainment make her an ideal fit for our team,” said Penske. “Her innovative and outside of the box approach will be key as we continue to expand and enhance our programming and global reach.”
"I'm thrilled to join DCP, a company I've long admired for its rich history and slate of incredible shows”, said Miller. “I'm also excited to be part of DCP's bright future and vision with Jay at the helm and look forward to shaping compelling, unique and memorable opportunities for talent for years to come."
A six-time Emmy Award-winning producer and two-time Billboard Women in Music Award winner, Miller brings over 20 years of experience in booking celebrity interviews and musical performances to the role, along with a proven track record building strong relationships across the entertainment industry. Her work spans major networks including CBS, NBC, Apple TV, and TBS, and she has collaborated with A-list talent and notable figures including Michelle Obama, Paul McCartney, Ariana Grande and Jay-Z.
Miller’s extensive career includes eight years as the Supervising Producer of “The Late Late Show with James Corden,” where she was instrumental in launching acclaimed series, Carpool Karaoke and spent seven years as Producer of “Carpool Karaoke: The Series” on Apple TV. Earlier in her career, she spent seven years as Senior Talent Executive of “Last Call with Carson Daly” and NBC’s New Year’s Eve special. She currently serves as Senior Supervising Producer for “The Talk.”
About Dick Clark Productions
Dick Clark Productions (DCP) is the world's largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming including the "Academy of Country Music Awards," "American Music Awards," "Billboard Music Awards," "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest," “Golden Globes,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” from 19 Entertainment and DCP, and “Streamy Awards.” Dick Clark Productions owns one of the world's most extensive and unique entertainment archive libraries with more than 60 years of award-winning shows, historic specials, performances, and legendary programming. Dick Clark Productions is owned by Penske Media Corporation, in a subsidiary joint venture between Penske Media and Eldridge. For more information, please visit DickClark.com.
Today, Fairchild Media Group (FMG) announced the elevation of Jim Fallon to the role of Chief Content Officer, WWD and Fairchild Media Group, effective immediately. Fallon will continue to use his industry knowledge and market expertise across editorial and content creation— from material creation to the final consumer— as FMG continues to strengthen and grow WWD, Beauty Inc, Sourcing Journal and Footwear News. Fallon will report to Amanda Smith, CEO, Fairchild Media Group.
"I am thrilled to recognize Jim with this well-deserved promotion to Chief Content Officer,” said Smith. “Over the last 45 years, Jim has demonstrated a fierce commitment to the journalistic excellence that our brands are known for and has been a critical part of their evolution. His unparalleled experience coupled with his passion for our work are evident in all he does. We look forward to seeing how his vision and leadership continue to propel our prestigious brands forward."
As Chief Content Officer, Fallon will oversee all aspects of editorial content across all brands and platforms, working closely with Smith to drive FMG's legendary titles to the next level of growth. He will maintain the journalistic excellence for which Fairchild is known, help strengthen brand positioning, foster editorial collaboration across FMG, expand audiences while serving the core industry readership, and help develop new editorial products in various forms to further broaden FMG's reach.
Prior to this role, Fallon has served as the editorial director of Fairchild Fashion Media, overseeing editorial for WWD, Footwear News, Beauty Inc and Fairchild Live Media. He has held leadership positions for over 45 years with Fairchild Media. Before that, he was editor of WWD.
Previously, Fallon was London bureau chief for Fairchild Publications for 20 years until 2001, when he relocated to New York. In the U.K., he covered London and areas of continental Europe for all the Fairchild titles, including WWD, the consumer magazine W, the men’s wear publication DNR and Footwear News. During his tenure, he reported on everything from apparel and textiles to telecommunications and supermarkets; the arts to the British royal family, and the enlargement of the European Union to counterfeiting and data security. He served as news editor in the Washington, D.C., bureau of Fairchild Publications for two years before being transferred to London. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in journalism and has a master’s degree in journalism from Stanford University.
About Fairchild Media Group
Fairchild Media Group (FMG), a division of Penske Media Corporation (PMC), is the leading source of fashion news and analysis for industry leaders and the global fashion community. Established in 1892 by Edmund Fairchild, Fairchild Media Group brands today include Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), Footwear News (FN), Beauty Inc, Sourcing Journal (SJ), Rivet, Fairchild Live, and Fairchild Studio. Fairchild Media Group’s Fairchild Studio produces over 100 pieces of programming in partnership with blue chip brands including industry reports, video series, and podcasts. The WWD Voices podcast provides news, commentary, and industry insights, as well as behind-the-scenes stories from the world of fashion apparel, luxury, retail, and beauty, hosted by WWD editors with special guests. FMG content reaches an 18 million+ international audience of business executives and fashion enthusiasts across print, digital, social, and over 25 annual thought-leader events, including its renowned CEO Summits.
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Today, CBS and the Golden Globes® announced that acclaimed Emmy®-nominated comedian and actress Nikki Glaser is set to host the 82ND ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES®, the first major award show of the season, airing Sunday, January 5, 2025 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/5:00-8:00 PM, live PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).*
“I am absolutely thrilled to be hosting the Golden Globes. It’s one of my favorite nights of television and now I get a front row seat (actually, I think I have to host from the stage),” said Glaser. “The Golden Globes is not only a huge night for TV and film, but also for comedy. It’s one of the few times that show business not only allows, but encourages itself to be lovingly mocked (at least I hope so). (God I hope so). It’s an exciting, yet challenging gig because it’s live, unpredictable, and in front of Hollywood’s biggest stars (who also might be getting wasted while seated next to their recent exes).”
Glaser continued, “Some of my favorite jokes of all time have come from past Golden Globes opening monologues when Tina, Amy, or Ricky have said exactly what we all didn’t know we desperately needed to hear. I just hope to continue in that time honored tradition (that might also get me canceled). This is truly a dream job. Plus, I no longer have to feel guilty for every TV show and movie I’ve binged over the past year. It was all worth it. (Below Deck: Sailing Yacht Season Four will be nominated, right?).”
"Nikki Glaser brings a fresh and unmatched candor to her comedy and to the Golden Globes," said Jay Penske, Chairman and CEO, of Dick Clark Productions and Penske Media. "Her unapologetic style made her an obvious and compelling choice as host for this year’s event. We're hopeful this could be the first of many Golden Globes that Nikki will surprise and delight our CBS audience, as well as our audiences around the globe."
“The Golden Globes has a rich history as a night for entertaining, provocative humor,” said George Cheeks, Office of the CEO, Paramount Global, President and Chief Executive Officer, CBS. “Nikki Glaser is a comedic force whose funny, bold and irreverent comedy will continue that legacy and further establish this special as a can’t miss event on CBS.”
"Nikki Glaser is a comedic powerhouse whose daring and unfiltered humor is the perfect match for the Golden Globes,” said Helen Hoehne, President, Golden Globes. “She is sure to bring a unique energy and spontaneity to the show that will keep the audience entertained all night."
Known for her razor-sharp wit and fearless humor, Nikki Glaser has established herself as one of the funniest voices in comedy today. In August of this year, the Los Angeles Times boldly described the knock-out comic, “Nikki Glaser is suddenly the hottest name in comedy." Previously Glaser headlined her first critically-acclaimed HBO comedy special “Good Clean Filth” in 2022, and earned an EMMY nomination for this year’s “Nikki Glaser: Someday You'll Die,” which set the record for both the best premiere night for an HBO comedy special in more than two years and for the #1 largest streaming audience for a Comedy Special in HBO Max/Max history. In 2021, Glaser launched “The Nikki Glaser Podcast” for iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Podcast Network (BMP). She currently hosts and executive produces “Lovers and Liars,” the spinoff of the hit HBO Max and CW reality dating series “FBoy Island,” which Glaser hosted and executive produced for three seasons. Glaser recently wrapped her global THE GOOD GIRL stand-up tour and is currently on her ALIVE AND UNWELL tour across the country through May 2025.
The Golden Globe Awards, often referred to as “Hollywood’s Party of the Year®,” is the largest awards show in the world to celebrate the best of both film and television. Multi-Emmy Award®-winning producing duo Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner of White Cherry Entertainment (WCE) will return as executive producing showrunners for the 82nd Golden Globes. Dick Clark Productions will plan, host and produce the annual Golden Globes, which has been viewed in more than 185 countries and territories worldwide.
CBS’ broadcast of the 81ST ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES® on Sunday, January 7, 2024, averaged 10 million viewers (Nielsen Live+7-Day national ratings), up nearly +50% from last year, its largest audience since 2020, making it the 3rd largest televised award show in the world approaching the Grammys and Oscars. The telecast was also the third-largest live-streamed CBS special event on Paramount+ ever in terms of AMA and reach.
Entries for Motion Picture and Television submissions must be completed online HERE, and the deadline is Monday, November 4, 2024. The awards timetable, rules and categories can be found HERE. Nominations are set to be announced on Monday, December 9, 2024.
About The Golden Globes®
As a premier entertainment awards show since 1944, the annual Golden Globes has honored achievements in both television and film. Over the last three decades, the Golden Globes has enabled donations of more than $55 million to entertainment-related charities including scholarship programs, film restoration projects and humanitarian efforts. This funding has also supported diverse programs in partnership with advocacy groups aimed at promoting greater access in Hollywood for underserved communities. Dick Clark Productions is the owner and producer of the Golden Globe Awards. For more information on the Golden Globes, please visit www.GoldenGlobes.com and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook and in Spanish on X and Facebook.
About Dick Clark Productions
Dick Clark Productions (DCP) is the world's largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming including the "Academy of Country Music Awards," "American Music Awards," "Billboard Music Awards," "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest," “Golden Globes,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” from 19 Entertainment and DCP, and “Streamy Awards.” Dick Clark Productions owns one of the world's most extensive and unique entertainment archive libraries with more than 60 years of award-winning shows, historic specials, performances, and legendary programming. Dick Clark Productions is owned by Penske Media Corporation, in a subsidiary joint venture between Penske Media and Eldridge. For more information, please visit DickClark.com
About CBS
CBS, a subsidiary of Paramount Global, creates and distributes industry-leading content across a variety of platforms to audiences around the world. The Company has businesses with origins that date back to the dawn of the broadcasting age as well as new ventures that operate on the leading edge of media. It includes some of the industry’s most successful and popular brands and businesses: CBS Television Network, CBS News and Stations, CBS Sports, CBS Studios, CBS Media Ventures and CBS digital properties
About Penske Media Corporation
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate monthly audience of more than 350 million. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media and live events, reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Artforum, Gold Derby and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several of the most iconic and vital cultural events such as the Golden Globes, Country Music Awards (ACMs), Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs), New Year’s Rockin Eve, SXSW, American Music Awards (AMAs), LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week, and ATX Television Festival. Penske Media is headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, for more information, please visit www.PMC.com
*Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs.
Today, Rolling Stone, the award-winning global authority on music, politics, and more, is proud to announce the launch of Rolling Stone Africa in partnership with MWANKOM, dedicated to championing quality Afro content. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as Rolling Stone expands its footprint in Africa with a goal of capturing its vibrant cultures and diverse voices.
“Expanding Rolling Stone's presence in Africa has been our long-term goal. We’re thrilled to give a platform to the rich music scene, culture, and stories that define the continent,” says Gus Wenner, CEO of Rolling Stone. “We look forward to working with MWANKOM and fostering global connections through the universal language of music."
Rolling Stone is renowned for its deep insights and fearless editorial stance in coverage of music, politics, entertainment, and popular culture. MWANKOM is poised to align with and support Rolling Stone’s mission by offering inclusive coverage of the same integrity across Africa’s culture, business, and technology landscape.
“Rooted in a rich multicultural heritage, our journey has been defined by a strong commitment to collaborating with trailblazing entrepreneurs from Africa and its global diaspora across various sectors,” says D. Romuald Bellegarde-Smeralda, CEO & Founder of MWANKOM. “This passion propels us to forge meaningful partnerships and transform remarkable visions into reality. The power of Afro-culture has now become mainstream. With a population in Africa well over 1 billion and a global diaspora of over 500 million people, including a large percentage below 30 years old, we understand the task. As a team of young and accomplished professionals all originating from the continent, we look forward to helping connect success stories from Africa with the rest of the world via the Rolling Stone Africabrand.”
MWANKOM’s diverse content portfolio reflects the multifaceted Afro experience and endeavors to elevate and celebrate Afro stories in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide. MWANKOM’s ultimate objective is positively impacting Africa by supporting educational projects and young entrepreneurs leveraging the global Afro diaspora.
The appointment process for the Editor-in-Chief and other senior positions is currently underway. The official launch date is forthcoming.
About ROLLING STONE:
Five decades since its founding, Rolling Stone today has evolved into a multi-platform content brand with unrivalled access and authority. Published in 10 languages, Rolling Stone has a global audience of over 75 million across 14 international editions. Staying true to its mission to tell exceptional stories that illuminate the culture of our times, Rolling Stone is an authority for music reviews, in-depth interviews, hard-hitting political commentary, and award-winning journalism across print, digital, mobile, video, social and events. Operated and published by Penske Media Corporation, Rolling Stone provides “all the news that fits.”
About MWANKOM:
MWANKOM is dedicated to becoming a leading provider of quality content championing Afro content and culture across the diaspora. MWANKOM aims to emerge as a premium provider of high-quality content celebrating Afro culture and experiences worldwide. By 2030, MWANKOM envisions reaching over 100 million devices globally, with wide distribution planned across Sub-Saharan Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, the United States, Canada, Europe, and the UK. With a commitment to excellence, MWANKOM aims to redefine storytelling by amplifying the voices and experiences of the Afro community.
With Additional Performances by Jamie xx, Jungle, James Blake, Thundercat, Toro y Moi, Badbadnotgood, Neil Frances, LP Giobbi, Empress Of, John Talabot, and Fifi Taking Place September 27-28 in Downtown Las Vegas
Today, Life is Beautiful, the renowned festival celebrating music, art, and culture, introduces A Big Beautiful Block Party, a thrilling new format and celebration of the culture, ideals and evolution of Downtown Las Vegas. The two-day party, taking place September 27-28, is a unique return to the festival’s roots, offering a more close-knit experience set against the vibrant backdrop of the city’s downtown heart. This year’s newly created event includes performances by Justice, Peggy Gou, LCD Soundsystem, Jamie xx, Jungle, James Blake, Thundercat, Toro y Moi, Badbadnotgood, Neil Frances, LP Giobbi, Empress Of, John Talabot, and Fifi.
Life is Beautiful will transform Downtown Las Vegas into a massive dance party, featuring non-stop music from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. each day, and will deliver a truly unforgettable experience. Embracing a unique approach, the festival eliminates overlapping sets, allowing attendees to immerse themselves fully in the music without missing a beat. From electrifying headliners to emerging talent, Life is Beautiful promises to deliver performances that captivate and inspire.
Located just a five-minute walk from The Arts District, The East Fremont Entertainment District, and the iconic Fremont Street Experience, Life is Beautiful invites its community to explore and enjoy the rich tapestry of Las Vegas while experiencing world-class music and artistry. Additionally, Life is Beautiful is proud to partner with Headcount, working together to register voters in anticipation of this critical election year.
Tickets for the festival go on sale on Thursday, June 27, at 10 a.m. PST at LifeisBeautiful.com. General Admission passes start at $199, and VIP passes start at $399.
About Life is Beautiful
Celebrating 11 years, Life is Beautiful Festival is Las Vegas' premier music and arts event. Life is Beautiful was born as part of the major revitalization of Downtown Las Vegas in 2013 and has helped transform the surrounding DTLV community into a bustling destination while contributing over $450M of economic impact and cultural capital to the area. Acquired by Penske Media Corporation and Rolling Stone in December 2023, Life is Beautiful is expanding its offering introducing new event concepts and formats while evolving and expanding the reach and impact of its marquee festival. Life is Beautiful continues to be driven by its core mission to create a holistic experience which aids in positive community development and individual empowerment through shared experiences driven by art and culture. What started as an event has become something more: a symbol of connection, joy and creativity.
Follow Life is Beautiful
Instagram: @Lifeisbeautiful
Twitter: @lifeisbeautiful
Facebook: @lifeisbeautifulfest
TikTok: @lifeisbeautifulfestival
London, June 2025
Today, South by Southwest® (SXSW®), the world’s leading festival celebrating the convergence of creativity, culture and technology, is launching in London in June 2025.
Through its multidisciplinary conferences and cultural festivals, SXSW has become a global platform to celebrate new ideas, propelling the careers of innovators and creatives across sectors, from start-up founders to independent artists and filmmakers.
SXSW London expands the footprint of the world’s leading and most sought-after cultural platform created over almost four decades in Austin, Texas. Every year, hundreds of thousands of creatives converge at SXSW to discuss and debate some of the most challenging issues of our time, with innovation in technology and science presented alongside the world’s biggest music and entertainment stories. From AI to climate change, politics to society, and the first outings for game changing start-ups such as Twitter and Airbnb, SXSW has been at the forefront of ideas and providing platforms for the world’s most critical and impactful voices.
Since 1987, SXSW has welcomed the world’s leading speakers and participants across a multitude of disciplines, including Christiane Amanpour, Deepak Chopra, Mark Cuban, Melinda Gates, Dave Grohl, Sadiq Khan, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Steven Spielberg, Dr. Lisa Su, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, Tilda Swinton, Taika Waititi, Elizabeth Warren, Amy Webb, Michelle Yeoh, and Mark Zuckerberg.
SXSW also creates unrivalled showcasing opportunities for new musicians and filmmakers, with a roll call of firsts that has helped propel global cultural icons like Amy Winehouse, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa and Ed Sheeran, and other influential artists such as Skepta, Stormzy and Wet Leg.
SXSW London will bring its own distinctive personality, driven by London's internationally renowned cultural life and creativity, its status as a global meeting place, and its proximity to other major creative and tech centres in Europe. Over the course of a week in June, SXSW London will take over dozens of venues, galleries, clubs and other spaces in Shoreditch, east London, renowned as a vibrant centre for creativity and technological innovation, as well as for its diversity, energetic youth culture, global cuisine and nightlife.
SXSW London will build upon London’s place within the community of over 20 million people working in the creative and technology sectors across Europe. In the UK alone, the cultural and creative industries contribute £125 billion, with London contributing more than half of the UK’s entire creative industries economic output.
In addition to inspiring and challenging keynotes, music showcases, and innovations in tech, gaming and screen, SXSW London will introduce boundary pushing visual arts, design and fashion programming, with exhibitions and interactive and immersive experiences in public spaces across its east London campus.
As SXSW’s European edition, SXSW London will have a particular emphasis on creative talent from across Europe. SXSW London will continue to encourage the convergence of creativity and culture, unexpected discoveries, and connections between visitors, creating opportunities for attendees, performers, and the broader London community to collaborate and innovate. SXSW London will also continue to develop Austin's focus on climate action and sustainability, with the ambition to drive positive change for future generations.
More details about the SXSW London 2025 programme will be announced in the coming months, with badges due to go on sale in October 2024. Register your interest for the most unmissable event in the 2025 European creative calendar at sxswlondon.com.
Randel Bryan, Managing Director of SXSW London, said:
"As a life-long fan of SXSW I truly believe that it’s more than an event - it’s a movement, a platform where the world’s greatest minds, musicians and motivators come to share their passion and their vision of the future.
"SXSW London will build on Austin's incredible legacy, presenting an event that underpins why SXSW is the go-to destination for professionals and creatives seeking meaningful connections, unexpected experiences and ideas that can help shape the world.
"SXSW London will also provide a platform for the next generation of creative talent and we will be working hard to ensure that opportunities for learning, employment and community uplift are at the heart of everything we do."
Jann Baskett, Co-President and Chief Brand Officer of SXSW, said:
"We couldn’t be more excited to bring the SXSW experience to London. Following the success of SXSW Sydney, this is an incredible new opportunity to highlight the elements that make SXSW unique in one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. We look forward to forming deeper connections with our overseas community and bringing the conversations that start in Austin all the way to London."
The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said:
"I am delighted to welcome SXSW to London for the first time ever - confirming our place at the heart of Europe’s tech and creative sectors and as a global capital of culture.
"When I was part of SXSW in Austin in 2018, I saw first-hand the electric atmosphere of innovation SXSW creates and I can’t wait to be part of it again. This is a historic opportunity for London to once again bring the world’s most exciting talent together as part of our mission to build a better and more prosperous London for everyone."
Culture Secretary, Lucy Frazer said:
“Festivals have been a vital part of British culture for decades and a key part of the reason why the UK is known the world over for creative excellence.
“From film and TV to fashion and music, London is a global hub for cultural and creative talent, so it’s fantastic that SXSW is coming here to bring together innovators from across these sectors and demonstrate why the UK’s creative industries are the envy of the world.”
Read quotes from Sir Peter Bazalgette, Co-Chair, UK Creative Industries Council, Dr Jo Twist OBE, Chief Executive, BPI, Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, Naomi Pohl, General Secretary Musicians’ Union, Priya Lakhani OBE, Founder and CEO, CENTURY TECH, Skinder Hundal MBE, Director, Arts, British Council, Karen Palmer, the award winning XR creator and futurist, Tom Kiehl, Interim Chief Executive, UK Music, Sally Davies, Managing Director of Abbey Road Studios, Lawrence Montgomery, Managing Director, Rough Trade Retail (UK), Jessica Driscoll, Director of Immersive Technology, Digital Catapult, Adam Cole, who presented his work Kiss/Crash at SXSW 2024 in Austin, Caroline Rush CBE, CEO British Fashion Council and Chair Creative Industries Trade and Investment Board, Professor James Bennett, Director CoSTAR National R&D Lab for Creative Technologies, Crispin Parry, CEO, British Underground, Ed Jenkins, CEO Volumetric Video Ltd and Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, CEO, Royal Academy of Engineering and Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering Foundation here.
About SXSW
SXSW dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of tech, film and television, music, education, and culture. An essential destination for global professionals, the annual March event features sessions, music, and comedy showcases, film and television screenings, exhibitions, professional development, and a variety of opportunities to meet and connect with people. SXSW proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and individuals come together. SXSW 2025 will take place March 7-15 in Austin.
SXSW’s expansion into the Asia Pacific region, with SXSW Sydney starting in 2023 and Europe with SXSW London in 2025, provides new possibilities at this iconic experience. These events, each with their own distinct flavour, make South By an indispensable three-stop tour for the global creative community.
Panarae
Panarae is a private investment company with a focus on the financing and development of global enterprises. The company has a diverse investment and partnership portfolio – ranging from financial and professional services to media and entertainment. SXSW London is produced under license from SXSW LLC by Panarise, a live entertainment company established and owned by Panarae.
TAIT
TAIT partners with artists, brands, and institutions to bring culture-defining, never-before-seen experiences to life. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 45 years, TAIT has grown from pioneering in rock ‘n’ roll concert staging to setting the global standard for extraordinary live events and experiences through cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and creative design, as well as producing high-stakes, high-touchpoint moments around the globe. TAIT’s 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned performers, theme parks, exhibits, and venues across the globe, including partnerships with Snap Inc., Taylor Swift, Cirque Du Soleil, Warner Bros. Discovery, Royal Opera House, Nike, NASA, Google, Disney, Beyoncé, Bloomberg, and The Olympics.
April, 26, 2024 – LOS ANGELES – Today, CBS and Dick Clark Productions (DCP) announced the world’s largest fan-voted award show, the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS (AMAs), will air on the CBS Television Network for the first time, Sunday, October 6, 2024 (8:00 PM, ET/5:00 PM, PT) and stream on Paramount+.
The AMAs celebrate the year’s top achievements in music determined by the fans, for the fans. Over the past 50 years, the AMAs has showcased the very best in music and delivered memorable pop-culture moments and powerful lineups, including first-time collaborations and exclusive world premiere performances from music’s biggest names across pop, rap, R&B, country, Latin, K-Pop and more.
The 2024 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS are produced by Dick Clark Productions. Nominees are based on key fan interactions – as reflected on the Billboard charts – including streaming, album sales, song sales and radio airplay.
*Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream the show live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs.
Media Contacts:
Dick Clark Productions
Gina Sorial, gsorial@dickclark.com
Lydia Baskharoon, lbaskharoon@dickclark.com
CBS
Kate Fisher, KHFisher@cbs.com
Datwon Thomas Named Executive Producer, Talent, Dick Clark Productions
Thomas Will Continue to Serve as VIBE's Editor-at-Large, as well as Vice President of Culture and Media at PMC
Los Angeles, CA, December 12, 2023: Today, Dick Clark Productions (DCP) announced the appointment of Datwon Thomas to a newly created role, Executive Producer, Talent, DCP, effective immediately. In his role, Thomas will be part of DCP’s in-house talent team, collaborating on talent strategy, relations, bookings, and creative, leveraging his unrivaled experience from his 13-year stewardship of VIBE. Thomas will work out of both the New York and Los Angeles offices.
Thomas will also assume the role of Editor-at-Large, VIBE, supporting big-picture strategy for the brand. In addition, he will maintain his role as PMC’s Vice President, Culture and Media, building diversity initiatives and programs for the company.
“We’re very excited to have Datwon bring his experience and unmatched expertise in Hip-Hop and R&B to DCP,” said Jay Penske, Chairman, Founder and CEO, Penske Media, CEO, Dick Clark Productions. “His deep relationships and innate creative sensibilities will be instrumental in shaping the future vision of DCP’s world-class portfolio of shows.”
“I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my media and entertainment career,” said Datwon Thomas. “My time as Editor-in-Chief of VIBE has been incredibly rewarding. I want to thank my staff of all eras for their hard work and support. Entering this new role is a valued achievement and one I take as an honor. I have been consulting with the DCP team for years, and during that time, my love of the rush of live television has grown. I look forward to getting even more involved in all aspects of great projects with amazing talent.”
Most recently, Thomas served as VIBE’s Editor-In-Chief. During this time, he pioneered new Hip-Hop and R&B media initiatives and created platforms to showcase and discover emerging and established artists.
Since 2019, Thomas has worked closely with the DCP team as a consulting producer for flagship programs, including the American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest.
Prior to VIBE and PMC, Thomas held positions as Founder and Editorial Director of the men's lifestyle guide KING Magazine, the urban car enthusiast's favorite, RIDES Magazine. He was the Editor-in-Chief of hip-hop's street authority, XXL Magazine. In addition, he also presided as Founder/Editorial Director of XXL Presents Hip-Hop Soul, a publication dedicated to documenting the successful hybrid genre of R&B and Hip-Hop.
Thomas worked in the digital content space as Editor-In-Chief of Hookt.com and was also the COO/EIC of GlobalGrind.com. Thomas is also a sought-after and recognized television commentator, moderator, and host.
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About Dick Clark Productions:
Dick Clark Productions is the world's largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming including the "Academy of Country Music Awards," "American Music Awards," "Billboard Music Awards," "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest," “Golden Globe Awards,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” from 19 Entertainment and DCP, and “Streamy Awards.” Dick Clark Productions owns one of the world's most extensive and unique entertainment archive libraries with more than 60 years of award-winning shows, historic specials, performances, and legendary programming. Dick Clark Productions is a Penske Media company. For more information, please visit www.DickClark.com.
Penske Media Corporation:
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate audience of over 300 million globally. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Dirt, Artforum, Gold Derby, Spy.com and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several vital cultural events such as SXSW, LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week and ATX Television Festival. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, PMC believes companies should not only be profitable but also forces for good. PMC is committed to fostering a working environment that is inclusive and responsible, where we value a company culture built on all backgrounds, voices, and experiences. For more information on the company, please visit www.PMC.com
About VIBE:
VIBE is a premier destination for music, entertainment and cultural content for a global multicultural audience. For more than 25 years, VIBE has been influential in chronicling celebrities, sounds, fashion and events from hip hop and R&B to the converging modern landscape. Today, VIBE highlights the manifestations of social justice while sparking dialogue that informs as well as issues change.
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Brooke Jaffe Elevated to Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Strategy at Penske Media
November 21, 2023, Los Angeles, CA: Today. Penske Media Corporation (PMC) announced that, effective immediately, Brooke Jaffe has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Public Affairs & Strategy. Jaffe began working at PMC in 2019 and most recently held the role of Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications.
In her role, Jaffe will continue to help accelerate and grow new and existing businesses across PMC and its vast portfolio of 30+ brands and counting. Over the last few years, she has added oversight of Dick Clark ProductionsPublic Relations to her scope and served as a part of LA3C’s core leadership team building the LA-focused festival from the ground up. She will continue driving impactful communications strategies to support PMC and its entire portfolio of brands internally and externally, including media communication, brand amplification, corporate messaging, information dissemination, and issue management. Jaffe's work will also include engaging and influencing public policy, including fostering relationships with outside organizations that align with PMC’s business and its mission to be a force for good in our communities.
“Brooke is such a vital and trusted partner to me and our entire senior leadership team,” said Jay Penske, CEO, Chairman, and Founder, Penske Media Corporation and CEO Dick Clark Productions. “She brings positivity, creativity, drive, strategic thinking, and collaboration to every business at PMC. We are very thankful and proud to have Brooke on our team.”
Before joining Penske Media, Jaffe served as Bloomingdale’s Women’s Fashion Director for over a decade, where she was responsible for determining business trends, discovering emerging talent, and directing the merchandise selection for the company nationwide. She also developed innovative partnerships, led external-facing brand messaging, and was a company spokesperson.
A seasoned executive and spokesperson, Jaffe brings over 20 years of experience to her role across editorial, retail, television production, on-camera expertise, writing, brand building, and business strategy.
Jaffe began her career in Vogue magazine’s accessories department as an Assistant Editor. She then joined InStyle magazine, where she held the position of Accessories Editor. Jaffe graduated cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in English and Theater Arts.
About Penske MediaCorporation
Penske MediaCorporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate audience of over 300 million globally. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media, reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick ClarkProductions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Dirt, Artforum, Gold Derby, Spy.com andLuminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several vital cultural events such as SXSW, LA3C, Life isBeautiful, Latin Music Week, and ATX Television Festival. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, PMC believes companies should not only be profitable but also force for good. PMC is committed to fostering an inclusive and responsible working environment, where we value a company culture built on all backgrounds, voices, and experiences.For information on the company, please visit www.PMC.com
The Hollywood Reporter Announces Partnership With AMC Networks’ SundanceTV and AMC+ on New TV Series: “Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter”
The show will be hosted by Emmy-nominated actress and comedian Yvonne Orji, and will be filmed at The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica
November 15, 2023, Los Angeles: Today, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) announced a partnership with AMC Networks’ SundanceTV and AMC+ for the new TV series “Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter.” THR’s famed Roundtables, which have become a hallmark of career achievement for A-list talent from Jennifer Lawrence and Pedro Pascal to Martin Scorsese and Lady Gaga, will be reimagined for broadcast, offering a fresh perspective on a classic, showcasing the collective brilliance of the entertainment industry's finest and funniest minds as never before.
“This series will celebrate the rich history and legacy of THR's Roundtable conversations,” said Elisabeth D. Rabishaw, executive producer and publisher of The Hollywood Reporter. "We’re thrilled to be taking this journey with AMC Networks to bring ‘Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter’ to life in a visually captivating and compelling format.”
“We’re overjoyed to introduce ‘Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter.’ It’s an opportunity for us to continue to give fans unparalleled access to the buzziest conversations and behind-the-scenes moments with today’s hottest stars and industry titans,” said Nekesa Mumbi Moody, co-editor-in-chief and executive producer.
Added Maer Roshan, co-editor-in-chief and executive producer: “We’re proud to amplify our signature Roundtables, one of THR’s most important legacy franchises, which has delivered authentic, intimate conversations, in partnership with AMC Networks.”
Boasting an all-new cinematic format, “Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter” will feature Emmy-nominated actress and comedian Yvonne Orji as host. "I’m thrilled to be a part of this new iteration of a series that has, for years, highlighted brilliant conversations and offered profound insight between filmmakers and the talented creatives who’ve brought us the films we’ve come to know and love,” said Orji.
With conversations moderated by THR’s Rebecca Keegan, Scott Feinberg, Mesfin Fekadu, and Mia Galuppo, the series will be filmed on location in The Georgian Room at The Georgian Hotel, the iconic Hollywood hangout in Santa Monica. The series is set to premiere exclusively on SundanceTV on Sundays from Dec. 31 through Jan. 14 for awards season, followed by streaming on AMC+. Look for the complete Roundtable videos on THR.com/Roundtables and YouTube after broadcast.
“Our audiences look forward to hearing directly from the stars and creators responsible for entertainment’s most talked-about films. A glamorous room, famous faces, and a fresh new approach to this beloved format are sure to set the stage for lively conversations we’re excited to exclusively host on our various platforms,” said Blake Callaway, EVP of Content Strategy, AMC Networks.
With an illustrious history spanning decades, THR is the preeminent source of entertainment news, offering readers unparalleled access to the industry's top talent and visionaries. Each episode of "Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter" will showcase a dynamic ensemble of actors, directors, writers, creatives, and more and delve deep into the urgent issues, creative methodologies, and behind-the-scenes narratives that define the industry.
About The Hollywood Reporter:
The Hollywood Reporter (THR) is a flagship entertainment media brand that offers in-depth reporting, analysis and thought-provoking reviews; unparalleled access, world-class photography and video; and exclusive features in its award-winning weekly magazine and dynamic website. THR also boasts prestigious live events; industry-leading philanthropic, empowerment and diversity initiatives; and hugely successful video series including the Emmy®-nominated “Close Up With The Hollywood Reporter.” THR was named best entertainment publication at the 15th annual National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards in December.
About SundanceTV:
Since its launch in 1996, SundanceTV has remained true to founder Robert Redford’s mission to celebrate creativity and distinctive storytelling through unique voices and narratives found in the best independent films. From delivering critically acclaimed Emmy®, Golden Globe® and Peabody Award-winning television featuring some of the world’s most talented creators and performers, to showcasing some of the most compelling and iconic films across genres and generations, SundanceTV is a smart and thought-provoking entertainment destination. SundanceTV is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc.; its sister networks include AMC, IFC, BBC America and WE tv. SundanceTV is available across all platforms, including on-air, online at www.sundancetv.com, on demand and mobile.
About AMC+:
AMC+ is the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, Orphan Black and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.
Penske Media Corporation, One of Los Angeles’ Largest Employers Moves its Headquarters to LUMEN West LA
The experiential office campus reimagines the modern workplace with light-infused next-generation design and a fluid indoor-outdoor campus, setting the stage for creativity and collaboration in the heart of LA’s beloved Sawtelle.
LOS ANGELES – November 1, 2023 – Penske Media Corporation (PMC) announced the relocation of its Los Angeles headquarters to LUMEN West LA, adjacent to Los Angeles’ historic Sawtelle. The property, owned and developed by McCarthy Cook and Northwood Investors, spanning 3.6 acres, is an unprecedented indoor-outdoor campus featuring 1.5 acres of private outdoor event space and state-of-the-art amenities and features.
With over 125,000 square feet, PMC is Lumen’s largest tenant and will occupy seven floors across the East Tower for its corporate offices and iconic portfolio of media brands, including Variety, Billboard, Golden Globes, The Hollywood Reporter, Luminate, Rolling Stone, Deadline, Dick Clark Productions, Robb Report, WWD, SHE Media, and more. PMC’s headquarters will include a ground-floor screening room, on-site production facilities, music studios, and podcast studios.
“We have moved our Los Angeles headquarters to LUMEN West after visiting every leading contemporary office building across the market. Simply put, there isn’t a better building for our teams and brands for our organization's future growth,” said Jay Penske, CEO, Chairman, and Founder, Penske Media Corporation. “As our business has scaled over the last decade in California, it has left us with four different office towers, and thankfully, this transaction allows us to bring nearly 30 operating businesses under one roof at LUMEN.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Penske Media Corporation to LUMEN West and know their creative teams will fast embrace its light-infused, airy environments, game-changing experiential and collaborative workspaces, and amazing proximity to Sawtelle, which inspired much of our design throughout the process,” said Edward Cook III, Co-President of McCarthy Cook & Co. “LUMEN West puts people first. It is an evolved indoor-outdoor experiential office and neighborhood campus unlike any other in LA. PMC’s decision affirms it is emerging as a new destination for leading creative entertainment and technology companies.’’
Adjacent to the Sawtelle, a district designated by the City of Los Angeles as a cultural enclave with significant history and a village with a vibe anchored by over forty boutique and wonderfully eclectic restaurants in West Los Angeles, the LUMEN West campus located at 11355 West Olympic Boulevard offers nearly 550,000 square feet of office space with 1.5 acres of private outdoor event space and gathering spaces including a great lawn for events, indoor-outdoor conference & entertainment pavilion, work & social cabanas, training fitness gym, lockers & showers, basketball court, pickleball court, chef gardens, Japanese-inspired rooftop beer garden, and more. Open-air lobbies, stairways, and bridges seamlessly connect social and entertainment amenities punctuated by 16,000 square feet of restaurant space anchored on the Ground floor overlooking Olympic Blvd., providing unparalleled culinary options for employees.
About Penske Media Corporation
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate audience of over 300 million globally. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Dirt, Artforum, Gold Derby, Spy.com and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several vital cultural events such as SXSW, LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week and ATX Television Festival. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, PMC believes companies should not only be profitable but also forces for good. PMC is committed to fostering a working environment that is inclusive and responsible, where we value a company culture built on all backgrounds, voices, and experiences. For more information on the company, please visit www.PMC.com
About McCarthy Cook & Company
Founded in 1995 by Thomas McCarthy and Edward W. Cook, McCarthy Cook & Company (MCC) invests in creative media/entertainment, life science, and technology properties in the major metropolitan markets of the Western United States. MCC is a vertically integrated real estate operating and development company. MCC co-invests with institutional partners including Oxford, PGIM Real Estate, Northwood Investors, Northwestern Mutual Life, JP Morgan Investment Management, Morgan Stanley Real Estate, Canyon Capital Advisors, the Blackstone Group, and Rialto.
McCarthy Cook has completed over $5.8 billion in transactions. Its current portfolio encompasses 3.1 million sq. ft. of space in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Orange County, San Francisco, and Mountain View. MCC has a seasoned team of local investment, development, and management professionals throughout California. The Firm’s Southern California offices are in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, while MCC maintains a Northern California office in San Francisco and Mountain View.
About Northwood Investors
Northwood is a privately-owned, employee-held registered investment advisor that was founded in 2006 by John Z. Kukral, former President and CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Advisors. Northwood employs a fundamental, value-driven investment strategy, pursuing attractive risk-adjusted returns while limiting downside risk. Northwood invests alongside institutional and private clients in a broad range of real estate and real estate-related investment opportunities across the US and Europe, with approximately $10 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2021. The Northwood team has deep experience in sourcing, executing, and managing real estate transactions worldwide, ranging from office buildings and shopping centers to hotels and residential investments. For more information about Northwood Investors, please visit www.northwoodinvestors.com
Penske Media Elevates George Grobar to President
Los Angeles, CA, October 19, 2023: Today, Penske Media Corporation (PMC) announced that George Grobar will be promoted to the role of company President, effective immediately. Grobar, who has been at PMC for 14 years, has held the title of Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the company's operating units and many of the corporate departments. He most recently led the integration of The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard into PMC and managed a portfolio of PMC’s music and entertainment brands and corporate planning functions.
As President, he will expand his scope with oversight of the entire PMC brand portfolio, including 26 business units (brands) and counting. Grobar will continue to have a seat on PMC’s board of directors. He reports directly to Jay Penske, Chairman, Founder, and CEO of PMC.
Grobar joined PMC as Chief Financial Officer in 2009 and built the company's financial planning infrastructure, helped lead many acquisitions, built a PMC joint venture operation in India, and worked with the company's growing portfolio of operating units. Grobar's promotion coincides with Penske Media's significant growth and expansion over the last three years.
“George has been instrumental in making PMC the company it is today," said Penske. “His consistent partnership and deep understanding of our business have been invaluable to our continued growth and success. We are thrilled to recognize George’s leadership, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to the team and our brands.”
“I feel incredibly proud when I look back at how far we have come in the last 14 years, and even more excited about what the next 14 will hold,” said Grobar. Working alongside a visionary and great operator like Jay Penske has been the opportunity of a lifetime. We are just starting, and I can’t wait for what’s next.”
Grobar brings over 35 years of financial and operational experience in new media, consumer products, and technology enterprises to his role at PMC. Before joining PMC, George spent 13 years at The Walt Disney Company, including launching a new strategic business from the ground up, as Senior Vice President of Disney Mobile. Before moving to Disney Mobile, George held several senior positions, including Vice President of Disney E-commerce, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Disney Direct Marketing and Walt Disney Art Classics, and the Director of Business Operations and control for Disney Consumer Products. Prior to Disney, George was with Unisys for eight years, working in the Corporate Treasury organization and progressing to Senior Manager roles in Finance and Product Management in the manufacturing, software development, and hardware engineering groups in Southern California.
George has a B.A. degree in Economics and English, magna cum laude, from Amherst College in Massachusetts and an MBA in Finance from the University of Michigan.
About Penske Media
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate audience. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media and a platform innovator, reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Dirt, Artforum, Gold Derby, Spy.com and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several vital cultural events such as SXSW, LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week and ATX Television Festival. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, PMC believes companies should not only be profitable but also forces for good www.pmc.com.
Celine Perrot-Johnson Named Penske Media Corporation's Executive Vice President, Operations and Finance
October 2, 2023, New York, NY: Penske Media Corporation (PMC) announced that Celine Perrot-Johnson has been appointed Executive Vice President, Operations and Finance, joining PMC’s existing operating executives, Paul Rainey and Tom Finn in a newly added role starting today. This augmentation to operational business leadership comes as Penske Media’s portfolio has expanded and diversified exponentially over the last three years, spanning print and digital media, live events, festivals, and real estate. Perrot-Johnson will report to George Grobar, PMC’s Chief Operating Officer, and will be based in New York.
In her role, Perrot-Johnson will oversee the business operations of PMC’s Fashion, Luxury, Art, and Women’s Interest brands in close collaboration with existing editorial and business leadership.
Before joining PMC, Perrot-Johnson was the CFO of Complex Networks, where she led the company through an in-depth financial transformation and guided its acquisition by Buzzfeed. Prior to that, she was the head of the Paramount Global Corporate FP&A team. She oversaw the consolidated Paramount forecast, communicated financial results to the Board, and managed the company incentive plan.
"We're so proud to add Celine to our team during this time of growth at PMC," said Jay Penske, CEO, Chairman, and Founder, PMC. "Celine brings incredible business acumen, strong operational leadership, and invaluable insights to this role, and I have no doubt she will be instrumental in shaping our strategy and success as we set the stage for the company's next twenty years."
“Celine is a strategic leader with extensive experience in the media and entertainment space,” said Grobar. “She brings a blend of deep financial and operational experience that has made her a trusted partner to executive teams, investment partners, Boards, and corporate advisors globally throughout her career. We are excited to add another proven leader to our team in NYC and look forward to the continuing evolution of the PMC brands under her leadership.”
"I am thrilled and honored to be joining PMC and working with the management of its luxury, fashion, and art brands,” said Perrot-Johnson. “What an amazing opportunity to bring my financial, strategic, and operational expertise to a global leader in the media industry, which has assembled and grown a unique portfolio of iconic brands. I look forward to collaborating with PMC's visionary leaders and content creators to support the organization's powerful cultural voice and expanding reach."
About Penske Media Corporation
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a leading global media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a passionate audience. Since 2004, PMC has been a pioneer in digital media and a platform innovator, reaching viewers on all screens across its ever-growing constellation of iconic brands, which includes Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Dick Clark Productions, WWD, SHE Media, Robb Report, Deadline, Sportico, BGR, ARTnews, Fairchild Media, Vibe, IndieWire, Dirt, Artforum, Gold Derby, Spy.com and Luminate, the premier data and analytics company. PMC’s journalists and content creators deliver daily the most comprehensive news and information in their industries and areas of coverage, unequaled in ambition, depth, and courage. In addition, PMC owns several vital cultural events such as SXSW, LA3C, Life is Beautiful, Latin Music Week and ATX Television Festival. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 14 countries worldwide, PMC believes companies should not only be profitable but also forces for good www.pmc.com.
