Michael Ovitz

Michael Ovitz's career began with a noteworthy feat, as he co-founded the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in 1975 and remained its chairman until 1995. Under his leadership, CAA flourished, becoming the world's leading talent agency as it expanded into various spheres, including film, investment banking, and advertising. His tenure at CAA is marked by several prominent business mergers and deals that he negotiated, such as Matsushita's acquisition of MCA/Universal and Sony's acquisition of Columbia Pictures. One of his most notable negotiations was David Letterman's move from NBC to CBS, a landmark event in television history.

Ovitz then went on to serve as the president of The Walt Disney Company from October 1995 until January 1997. Despite his short tenure, his departure was marked by a substantial severance package valued at $38 million in cash and an estimated $100 million in stock. In 1999, Ovitz founded the Artist Management Group (AMG), which he later sold to Jeff Kwatinetz in 2002. Apart from his corporate endeavors, Ovitz also ventured into the realm of private investment and engaged in various business ventures, including an attempt to introduce an NFL team to Los Angeles.

Outside of his business pursuits, Ovitz is also known for his philanthropy and his contributions to the art world. He donated $25 million to UCLA's Medical Center in 1999 and has supported various charitable causes. As an art collector, he is recognized among the world's top 200, owning works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Mark Rothko. His experiences at CAA and The Walt Disney Company have been captured in his memoir, "Who is Michael Ovitz?".