Next person biography:
Celebrating 40 years in the entertainment industry in 2024, it's astonishing to reflect on the incredible journey that has led me to where I am today. Fresh out of film school, I set out with a clear goal: to become a producer. And although it took a lot of hard work, several nervous breakdowns, and multiple failures, I'm proud to say that I've managed to produce or be the executive in charge of over 100 films and 200 TV episodes.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with some of the most talented individuals in the industry. I've owned the license to the iconic Reading Rainbow brand with LeVar Burton for many years, produced a film with my childhood hero Harrison Ford, and worked on the most expensive film made at its time, Terminator 3, alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. I've collaborated with a diverse range of actors, including Liam Neeson, Susan Sarandon, and Jeff Bridges, to name just a few.
One of my most rewarding experiences was writing and directing 200 episodes of Reading Rainbow, which included working with esteemed guests such as Joe and Jill Biden, Michelle Obama, and many more. I've also had the opportunity to produce and direct films and TV shows in various locations around the world, including Moscow, India, Bulgaria, Paris, London, Morocco, Panama, and Israel.
In addition to my work in the entertainment industry, I'm passionate about giving back to my community. As the Board President of California's State Department of Developmental Disabilities, I've had the privilege of producing and writing numerous video shorts that help disabled individuals understand their rights. This work has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of 1 in every 100 Californians.
I'm also excited to announce that I'm currently working on several new projects, including an upcoming Amazon series called Replica and the adaptation of best-selling books for middle-grade readers, The Curious League of Detectives and Thieves, which I've been trying to acquire for 10 years.
Through it all, I've been fortunate to have the love and support of my high school prom date, who is still my wife today. We have two great, happily launched, and thriving kids who have brought us immense joy and pride.
