ROBERT RODRIGUEZ - MAJOR DEFECTION AT TOP TALENT AGENCY

MAJOR DEFECTION AT TOP TALENT AGENCY

Representing a big boost to the relatively young Endeavor talent agency, Robert Newman, head of rival ICM's motion picture group, said Wednesday that he and Matt Solo, former head of ICM's television literary department, will join Endeavor as partners in the agency. Their departure comes as ICM continues to adjust to the turmoil inherent in installing a new regime, the Los Angeles Times, which, along with the New York Times reported the defection, commented today (Thursday). It was unclear which of their clients would also jump ship to Endeavor. Newman's included directors Robert Rodriguez, Baz Luhrmann, Guillermo del Toro and Mike Figgis. He expressed confidence that they would join him. Solo's had included House creator David Shore, Grey's Anatomy co-executive producer Mark Wilding, and The Shield creator Shawn Ryan. Newman told the New York Times that leaving ICM after 17 years was "the hardest decision I've made in my life. ... They gave me my start in the business. I'm honored to be asked to join Endeavor, and do that with confidence that they have the greatest resources and opportunities."



04/01/2007