Edie And Lew Wasserman And Their Entertainment Empire

When it comes to the entertainment industry, few names resonate as strongly as Edie and Lew Wasserman. This iconic duo revolutionized Hollywood and built a lasting empire that continues to shape the world of film and television to this day.

The Rise of Edie and Lew Wasserman

Edie and Lew Wasserman's incredible journey in the entertainment world began in the mid-20th century. Lew, a talent agent, and Edie, his highly influential wife, were destined to become powerhouses in the industry.

Mr. & Mrs. Hollywood: Edie and Lew Wasserman and Their Entertainment Empire

by Kathleen Sharp (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2113 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	503 pages

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Lew Wasserman's early career involved representing a remarkable roster of talent, including legendary figures such as James Stewart and Alfred Hitchcock. His ability to negotiate favorable deals for his clients quickly earned him a reputation as a skilled agent.

Edie Wasserman, on the other hand, was an ambitious woman with an exceptional eye for talent. She played a vital role in the success of her husband's agency, taking charge of various aspects and proving herself to be a formidable force in Hollywood.

The Birth of the Entertainment Empire

The real turning point in Edie and Lew Wasserman's careers came when they acquired MCA (Music Corporation of America) in 1962. This acquisition marked the beginning of their quest to build an entertainment empire that would dominate the industry.

Under the Wassermans' leadership, MCA expanded its operations to become a powerhouse in multiple sectors, including film, television, and music. The company's influence permeated through every aspect of the entertainment world, allowing the Wassermans to shape the careers of countless stars.

A Force to Be Reckoned With

Beyond their business ventures, Edie and Lew Wasserman also made a significant impact on the political landscape. The couple was heavily involved in shaping policies related to the entertainment industry, advocating for the rights of artists and ensuring fair practices throughout.

Through their passion and dedication, the Wassermans established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, earning the respect and admiration of their peers. They commanded immense influence, making them instrumental in the success of many Hollywood stars.

The Legacy Lives On

While time has passed since the days of Edie and Lew Wasserman's reign, their legacy continues to thrive. MCA, now known as Universal Studios, remains one of the most powerful entertainment conglomerates in the world.

The Wasserman Foundation, established by Edie and Lew, has been instrumental in supporting various causes, particularly within the arts and education. Their philanthropy has touched countless lives and reflects their ongoing commitment to making a positive impact.

Edie and Lew Wasserman's journey from talent agent and visionary wife to entertainment moguls is a testament to their unwavering determination and exceptional business acumen. Their empire continues to shape the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film and television.

From negotiating deals to spearheading political changes and supporting charitable endeavors, the Wassermans have left an extraordinary legacy. Their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring industry professionals and a reminder that with passion and persistence, dreams can become reality.

Keywords: Edie Wasserman, Lew Wasserman, entertainment empire, Hollywood, MCA, Universal Studios, philanthropy

Mr. & Mrs. Hollywood: Edie and Lew Wasserman and Their Entertainment Empire

by Kathleen Sharp (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2113 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	503 pages

FREE

The Wassermans ruled over twentieth-century Hollywood by building MCA, the world’s largest talent agency, which ultimately devoured the global multibillion-dollar conglomerate, Universal Studios. Hounded by antitrust prosecutors, attacked by lesser rivals, and betrayed by their own proteges, this supremely powerful couple vanquished their enemies while extending their influence beyond Sunset Strip, into governors’ mansions, Senate chambers, the White House, and international boardrooms. Lew was uber-agent to legendary stars, a pioneering TV producer and a film mogul with a Midas touch. He was a boss to sixty-two labor unions, a diplomat, political kingmaker, and cultural statesman. His wife and champion, Edie, was the daughter of a Cleveland mob attorney, the queen of Hollywood’s social A-list, and Lew’s secret agent who used her cunning and charm to help him. For more than sixty years, the couple played a central role in shaping the Golden Age of TV, the glamorization of Las Vegas, the development of the blockbuster film (Psycho, Jaws, E.T.) and the elevation of the entertainment industry into America’s number-one export. Sharp also chronicles the Wassermans’ extraordinary philanthropy which made them the most generous of Hollywood’s benefactors. 16 pages of black and white photographs are included.