Sean Bailey, the producer-turned-executive who oversaw Walt Disney Studios’ live-action division for about 15 years, is leaving the studio.
Instead, David Greenbaum, who ran Searchlight Pictures with Matthew Greenfield, will take over the newly created role of president of Disney live-action films and 20th Century Studios. Mr. Greenbaum will report directly to Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment.
Steve Asbell will continue to oversee 20th Century Studios as president, and Greenfield will solely oversee Searchlight as president.
In the new role, Greenbaum will “lead a unified studio group that will be home to both iconic film brands, with a strong collection of original and legacy projects unique to theaters and streaming,” according to a studio announcement on Monday. At the same time, we will strengthen collaboration across the film industry.” production slate. ”
The move is a leap forward for Greenbaum, which, along with its partner Greenfield, has a proven track record in the field of prestige film production. The pair report to former Searchlight chiefs Nancy Utley and Steve Gilula, who took over the top job in 2021.The company is in the awards race this year poor thing, has 11 nominations. Greenbaum has built a reputation for his affinity for talent and active participation in the awards race. This new role will be a different creative experience as we shape our position as Hollywood’s largest purveyor of film titles.
“David has an incredible creative sensibility and eye for film, and is an exceptional leader and creative, as evidenced by his track record at Searchlight Pictures and deep relationships across the industry,” Bergman said in a statement.・Building a reputation as an executive.” “We are thrilled that he will be taking on this new and important role. We were fortunate to have a strong creative leader in Steve Asbell at 20th Century, and he will work closely with David to lead the creative team.” I look forward to taking a more strategic look at both brands as a whole from an operational and operational perspective. I would also like to thank Sean Bailey for his many contributions and leadership during his tenure at Disney. It continues to be under excellent management under the leadership of Matthew Greenfield.”
Bailey’s departure has been rumored for several weeks, with his name rising to the top of the list as the most likely executive to replace Scott Stuber, Netflix’s head of film, who announced his departure in January. are doing. But it doesn’t seem like that’s the case, although it’s not clear what has changed.
Disney appointed Mr. Bailey as production director in 2010. He spearheaded a strategy to move away from original films and focus on live-action remakes of the company’s animated classics. It’s a strategy that’s hard to argue with, and some of the films became his billion-dollar blockbusters. beauty and the beast, Aladdin and The Lion King.
Bailey made his name partnering Ben Affleck and Matt Damon in the Live Planet trio, and served as a producer on the acclaimed 2007 thriller, Affleck’s feature directorial debut. Gone baby gone.
His first post-exec role was producing for Disney. Tron: Ares. Other production projects will definitely follow. “The last 15 years at Disney have been an incredible journey, and now is the right time for a new chapter. I am deeply grateful to my talented team and am grateful for the foundation we have built together.” and our history,” Bailey said in a statement. “I joined Disney while producing.” tron legacySo I think it’s fitting that I have the opportunity to work on the latest things. tron When I leave. I wish Bob Iger, Alan Bergman, and all of my wonderful colleagues all the best for a bright future. ”
Bergman said in a statement: “[Sean and his team]have brought iconic stories and moments to the screen that have delighted fans around the world and stand the test of time. We look forward to seeing him continue to do great things. I know, and I couldn’t be happier that he’s staying on as a producer. Tron: Ares”
Greenbaum worked on Oscar-winning films during his long tenure at Searchlight. water shape and nomadland projects such as menu, favorites, wild, The Grand Budapest Hoteland black swan. As head of development at Miramax Films, he worked on films such as: There is no country for old people and there will be blood. Fame is in his DNA, which makes it all the more interesting to watch his evolution.
“I would like to thank Bob Iger and Alan Bergman for the unique opportunity to carry on the legacy of allegorical and groundbreaking storytelling, both at Disney and in the 20th century. This is an honor and responsibility for me. “It’s not something we take lightly and we’re eager to work with Steve Asbell and the team to make that happen,” Greenbaum said. “At the same time, the past 14 years working alongside my dear friend and colleague Matthew Greenfield have been unforgettable. Searchlight and its amazing team remain in our company’s They are the gold standard of quality in the business and we look forward to seeing them in action.” We wish them continued success in the years to come. ”