Lew Wasserman

Date of Birth: March 22, 1913

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: June 3, 2002

Biography

Lew Wasserman, born Lewis Robert Wasserman, was an influential American film and television producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern entertainment industry. Born on March 22, 1913, in Cleveland, Ohio, Wasserman began his illustrious career in show business at the age of 20 when he joined the Music Corporation of America (MCA) in 1936. Rising through the ranks, he eventually became the head of MCA and transformed it into one of the most powerful talent agencies and later a dominant force in film and television production. Under Wasserman’s leadership, MCA acquired Universal Pictures in 1962, merging talent representation and production in a way that was unprecedented. His innovative approach to packaging deals—whereby an agency would package a film or TV show with a writer, director, and actors—revolutionized Hollywood. Wasserman was also known for his influence in political circles, having close ties with several U.S. Presidents, including John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan. His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1973 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995. Lew Wasserman passed away on June 3, 2002, but his legacy continues to impact Hollywood and the global entertainment landscape.

5 Interesting Facts about Lew Wasserman

1. Lew Wasserman is credited with creating the “package deal” that became a standard practice in Hollywood.

2. He played a crucial role in the election of Ronald Reagan as Governor of California and later as President of the United States.

3. Wasserman was instrumental in transforming Universal Studios into a major player in both film and television.

4. He received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1973.

5. Wasserman was known for his discretion and behind-the-scenes influence, earning him the nickname “The Last Mogul.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lew Wasserman

1. “If it works, it’s obsolete.”

2. “Movies are art, and the business of making art is the art of making money.”

3. “In this business, until you’re known as a monster, you’re not a star.”

4. “I never wanted to be famous. I only wanted to be influential.”

5. “Success in this business requires a certain amount of talent, but the ability to get along with people is just as important.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Lew Wasserman’s net worth was estimated to be around $200 million.

Children

Lew Wasserman and his wife, Edie Wasserman, had one daughter named Lynne Wasserman. Lynne mostly stayed out of the public eye but was involved in various philanthropic activities alongside her parents.