A star-studded host committee, Academy Awards nominees and presenters, along with some of the most powerful industry influencers came together on March 9, 2024, for MPTF's 22nd Annual ‘Night Before’ benefit.
Co-Chaired by Sterling K. Brown & Ryan Michelle Bathé, America Ferrera & Ryan Piers-Williams, Jodie Foster, and Paul Giamatti, the annual event raised over $4.3 million.
“MPTF and I have such a rich, wonderful history together of taking care of our own. I’m so proud to support this incredible organization and help raise crucial funds to support our industry family when they need it most,” said Jodie Foster.
America Ferrera stated, “I’m proud to be part of a benefit that brings our community together while helping sustain the important mission of MPTF.”
Sterling K. Brown noted, “I’ve been involved with MPTF for many years and am honored to chair the Night Before with my peers. This is not only a great...
Co-Chaired by Sterling K. Brown & Ryan Michelle Bathé, America Ferrera & Ryan Piers-Williams, Jodie Foster, and Paul Giamatti, the annual event raised over $4.3 million.
“MPTF and I have such a rich, wonderful history together of taking care of our own. I’m so proud to support this incredible organization and help raise crucial funds to support our industry family when they need it most,” said Jodie Foster.
America Ferrera stated, “I’m proud to be part of a benefit that brings our community together while helping sustain the important mission of MPTF.”
Sterling K. Brown noted, “I’ve been involved with MPTF for many years and am honored to chair the Night Before with my peers. This is not only a great...
- 3/14/2024
- Look to the Stars
The Motion Picture & Television Fund raised more than $4.3 million at its 22nd annual star-studded benefit on Saturday night.
The exclusive event was co-chaired by Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathé, America Ferrera and Ryan Piers-Williams, Jodie Foster and Paul Giamatti.
Funds raised from the event will be used to support industry members and their families who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services, such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and residency on the Wasserman Campus in Woodland Hills, which now serves as “home” to many television and film veterans. During the recent work stoppages, MPTF received over 13,000 calls for aid and provided more than $8 million in charitable financial assistance.
“MPTF and I have such a rich, wonderful history together of taking care of our own,” said Foster. “I’m so proud to support this incredible organization and help raise crucial funds to support our industry family when they need it most.
The exclusive event was co-chaired by Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathé, America Ferrera and Ryan Piers-Williams, Jodie Foster and Paul Giamatti.
Funds raised from the event will be used to support industry members and their families who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services, such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and residency on the Wasserman Campus in Woodland Hills, which now serves as “home” to many television and film veterans. During the recent work stoppages, MPTF received over 13,000 calls for aid and provided more than $8 million in charitable financial assistance.
“MPTF and I have such a rich, wonderful history together of taking care of our own,” said Foster. “I’m so proud to support this incredible organization and help raise crucial funds to support our industry family when they need it most.
- 3/10/2024
- by Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Motion Picture & Television Fund is making moves on its board of directors.
The organization has expanded the roster from 12 to 21 members by moving six existing members from its board of governors over to the board of directors and adding three new executives to the ranks. New blood includes Nicole Clemens, president of Paramount Television Studios; veteran producer and Hollywood royalty John Goldwyn, who serves as principal of John Goldwyn Prods.; and attorney Maria Rodriguez, a managing partner in the L.A. office of McDermott Will & Emery Llp.
Those transitioning to the board include Dr. Eric Esrailian of UCLA, Warner Bros. Pictures executive vp of production and senior advisor Kevin McCormick, veteran executive Peter Rice, Sunswept Entertainment’s Karen Rosenfelt, Oscar nominated producer Emma Thomas and John Wells Prods. principal John Wells.
The moves come as the industry continues to roar back from back-to-back labor strikes in 2023, work stoppages...
The organization has expanded the roster from 12 to 21 members by moving six existing members from its board of governors over to the board of directors and adding three new executives to the ranks. New blood includes Nicole Clemens, president of Paramount Television Studios; veteran producer and Hollywood royalty John Goldwyn, who serves as principal of John Goldwyn Prods.; and attorney Maria Rodriguez, a managing partner in the L.A. office of McDermott Will & Emery Llp.
Those transitioning to the board include Dr. Eric Esrailian of UCLA, Warner Bros. Pictures executive vp of production and senior advisor Kevin McCormick, veteran executive Peter Rice, Sunswept Entertainment’s Karen Rosenfelt, Oscar nominated producer Emma Thomas and John Wells Prods. principal John Wells.
The moves come as the industry continues to roar back from back-to-back labor strikes in 2023, work stoppages...
- 2/1/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Television’s biggest night took place in West Hollywood, CA on Saturday, January 13th when Emmy Awards nominees and presenters, along with some of the most powerful entertainment industry influencers, joined together for MPTF's 17th annual “Evening Before” benefit.
Stars Attend MPTF's 17th annual "Evening Before" benefit
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for MPTF
Co-Chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event raised over $2.5 million.
“I’m excited to celebrate with MPTF. We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm, " said co-chair Quinta Brunson.
Co-chair Bob Odenkirk added, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s The Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.”
Funds raised...
Stars Attend MPTF's 17th annual "Evening Before" benefit
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for MPTF
Co-Chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event raised over $2.5 million.
“I’m excited to celebrate with MPTF. We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm, " said co-chair Quinta Brunson.
Co-chair Bob Odenkirk added, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s The Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.”
Funds raised...
- 1/17/2024
- Look to the Stars
Inside MPTF’s Evening Before Benefit with Stars of ‘Succession,’ ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘Abbott Elementary’
Who doesn’t love a group photo packed with big-name actors?
A slew of stars came together to say cheese and help raise north of $2.5 million in West Hollywood on Saturday night at the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s 17th annual Evening Before benefit. Co-chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event takes place ahead of the Emmy Awards, and this weekend’s installment shifted to the new year to follow the TV Academy’s celebration due to the dual strikes last summer.
“We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm,” said Brunson. Added Odenkirk, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.
A slew of stars came together to say cheese and help raise north of $2.5 million in West Hollywood on Saturday night at the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s 17th annual Evening Before benefit. Co-chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event takes place ahead of the Emmy Awards, and this weekend’s installment shifted to the new year to follow the TV Academy’s celebration due to the dual strikes last summer.
“We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm,” said Brunson. Added Odenkirk, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.
- 1/14/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Returning for its second year, MPTF's fundraising telethon, Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood’s Crews raised $786,512 on Saturday night to benefit the 100-year-old charity’s support of entertainment industry members in need, exceeding the original goal of $750K.
Tom Bergeron and Yvette Nicole Brown attend MPTF's Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood's Crews Telethon
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for MPTF
Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood’s Crews aired live on Ktla (Channel 5 in Los Angeles) on December 9, with presenting sponsors City National Bank and UCLA Health leading the charge on the philanthropic endeavor. Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron returned as hosts of the evening and served as two of the producers along with the return of producers Phil Rosenthal (Everybody Loves Raymond and Somebody Feed Phil) and David Wild (Let’s Go Crazy: The Grammy Salute to Prince and The 63rd...
Tom Bergeron and Yvette Nicole Brown attend MPTF's Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood's Crews Telethon
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for MPTF
Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood’s Crews aired live on Ktla (Channel 5 in Los Angeles) on December 9, with presenting sponsors City National Bank and UCLA Health leading the charge on the philanthropic endeavor. Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron returned as hosts of the evening and served as two of the producers along with the return of producers Phil Rosenthal (Everybody Loves Raymond and Somebody Feed Phil) and David Wild (Let’s Go Crazy: The Grammy Salute to Prince and The 63rd...
- 12/18/2023
- Look to the Stars
MPTF's fundraising telethon for crew members in need will return for its second time. Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood’s Crews will air live on Ktla (Channel 5 in Los Angeles) on December 9, 7-9 pm Pt.
Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron return as hosts and serve as two of the producers for this uplifting, entertaining evening of stories, songs, and celebrities— all to raise emergency relief funds for workers in need. MPTF’s first telethon last December received an LA Area Emmy nomination and raised over $850K to provide for the entertainment industry’s most vulnerable community members. Now the need is even more urgent with tens of thousands of industry workers impacted by the two strikes in 2023, which will have major personal financial ramifications well into next year. A goal of $750K has been set for the two-hour broadcast.
This live televised event sees the return...
Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron return as hosts and serve as two of the producers for this uplifting, entertaining evening of stories, songs, and celebrities— all to raise emergency relief funds for workers in need. MPTF’s first telethon last December received an LA Area Emmy nomination and raised over $850K to provide for the entertainment industry’s most vulnerable community members. Now the need is even more urgent with tens of thousands of industry workers impacted by the two strikes in 2023, which will have major personal financial ramifications well into next year. A goal of $750K has been set for the two-hour broadcast.
This live televised event sees the return...
- 12/1/2023
- Look to the Stars
The Motion Picture & Television Fund said Tuesday that the Lights, Camera, Take Action! Caring for Hollywood’s Crews fundraising telethon will return for its second edition December 9, airing live on Ktla-Los Angeles from 7-9 p.m. Pt.
It will also stream on the MPTF’s website.
Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron are back to host after doing the same last year, when the telethon raised more than $850,000 and was nominated for an L.A. Area Emmy.
A goal of $750,000 has been set for this year’s broadcast, which so far is expected to include appearances by Camilla Belle, Kyle Bornheimer, Jeff Bridges, Darren Criss, Lena Dunham, Colin Farrell, Jason George, Clark Gregg, Lalah Hathaway, Jodie Foster, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Wendy Liebman, Michael McKean, Leslie Odom Jr, Annette O’Toole, Phil Rosenthal, Daniela Ruah, Tiffany Smith, John Stamos, Billy Bob Thornton, Wilmer Valderrama, Ming-Na Wen and David Wild.
It will also stream on the MPTF’s website.
Yvette Nicole Brown and Tom Bergeron are back to host after doing the same last year, when the telethon raised more than $850,000 and was nominated for an L.A. Area Emmy.
A goal of $750,000 has been set for this year’s broadcast, which so far is expected to include appearances by Camilla Belle, Kyle Bornheimer, Jeff Bridges, Darren Criss, Lena Dunham, Colin Farrell, Jason George, Clark Gregg, Lalah Hathaway, Jodie Foster, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Wendy Liebman, Michael McKean, Leslie Odom Jr, Annette O’Toole, Phil Rosenthal, Daniela Ruah, Tiffany Smith, John Stamos, Billy Bob Thornton, Wilmer Valderrama, Ming-Na Wen and David Wild.
- 11/28/2023
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
MPTF is launching the “Back to Work” campaign, a fundraiser to assist crew members impacted financially by the Hollywood strikes.
“While the agreement between the WGA and AMPTP and the tentative agreement between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are certainly encouraging, our crews will continue to struggle for many months to come,” Bob Beitcher, MPTF President & CEO, said in a statement. “The financial and emotional pain will not be flipped off like a light switch but will require months or longer to heal.”
Filmmakers and Hollywood executives have provided lead gifts to the fund like Oppenheimer director Christopher Nolan and his wife Emma Thomas.
“We are thrilled that SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP have tentatively agreed to a new contract, but it will be a while before most of our industry colleagues are back at work, and the MPTF is going to play a vital part in supporting crews as they return to set,...
“While the agreement between the WGA and AMPTP and the tentative agreement between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are certainly encouraging, our crews will continue to struggle for many months to come,” Bob Beitcher, MPTF President & CEO, said in a statement. “The financial and emotional pain will not be flipped off like a light switch but will require months or longer to heal.”
Filmmakers and Hollywood executives have provided lead gifts to the fund like Oppenheimer director Christopher Nolan and his wife Emma Thomas.
“We are thrilled that SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP have tentatively agreed to a new contract, but it will be a while before most of our industry colleagues are back at work, and the MPTF is going to play a vital part in supporting crews as they return to set,...
- 11/15/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Hollywood’s strikes may be over, but the Motion Picture and Television Fund’s work is just getting started as it has launched a “Back to Work” fundraising campaign to provide support for entertainment workers who face continued financial strain due to the six-month work stoppage.
“While the agreement between the WGA and AMPTP and the tentative agreement between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are certainly encouraging, our crews will continue to struggle for many months to come,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said. “The financial and emotional pain will not be flipped off like a light switch but will require months or longer to heal.”
Multiple filmmakers and executives have already provided lead donations to the “Back to Work” campaign, including “Dune” director Denis Villeneuve, “Oppenheimer” director Christopher Nolan and his wife and producer partner Emma Thomas.
“We are thrilled that SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP have tentatively agreed to a new contract,...
“While the agreement between the WGA and AMPTP and the tentative agreement between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP are certainly encouraging, our crews will continue to struggle for many months to come,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said. “The financial and emotional pain will not be flipped off like a light switch but will require months or longer to heal.”
Multiple filmmakers and executives have already provided lead donations to the “Back to Work” campaign, including “Dune” director Denis Villeneuve, “Oppenheimer” director Christopher Nolan and his wife and producer partner Emma Thomas.
“We are thrilled that SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP have tentatively agreed to a new contract,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Gary Martin, a retired longtime executive at Sony Pictures who served as President of Studio Operations and Product during a 32-year stint at the studio, has died. He was 79.
Sony reps said he died November 2 of natural causes at his home in Sherwood Forest, CA.
Martin began his studio career at 20th Century Fox in 1961, moving over to Columbia 20 years later. Promoted to President, Production Administration in 1988, he retained his position after Sony’s acquisition of Columbia in 1989 and continued to serve in that role even after his promotion to President of Studios Operations in 2003.
During his 32 years with Columbia/Sony, Martin helped define the company’s impressive record of box office hits, overseeing production of such films as Best Picture Oscar nominee Tootsie and Ghostbusters as well as Men in Black, Spider-Man and Casino Royale.
Upon his retirement in 2013, Sony Pictures renamed its most storied sound stage, Stage 15 — one...
Sony reps said he died November 2 of natural causes at his home in Sherwood Forest, CA.
Martin began his studio career at 20th Century Fox in 1961, moving over to Columbia 20 years later. Promoted to President, Production Administration in 1988, he retained his position after Sony’s acquisition of Columbia in 1989 and continued to serve in that role even after his promotion to President of Studios Operations in 2003.
During his 32 years with Columbia/Sony, Martin helped define the company’s impressive record of box office hits, overseeing production of such films as Best Picture Oscar nominee Tootsie and Ghostbusters as well as Men in Black, Spider-Man and Casino Royale.
Upon his retirement in 2013, Sony Pictures renamed its most storied sound stage, Stage 15 — one...
- 11/6/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Gary O. Martin, a former Sony Pictures executive who served as president of studio operations and production for several decades, died of natural causes on Thursday at his home in Sherwood Forest, Calif. He was 79 years old.
Martin’s death was confirmed by a publicist for his family members.
After coming to Sony — then Columbia Pictures — as a production manager in 1981, Martin was elevated to overseeing production and post-production on the lot in 1988. In 2003, he took on the responsibilities of studio operations. His tenure at the studio helped steer the launch of franchises such as “Spider-Man,” “Men in Black” and Ron Howard’s adaptations of Dan Brown novels.
“As a colleague at Sony and then as the production head when I made a few films there, Gary was rough, tough, great at his work—-and one of the sweetest, most beautiful people on the lot,” Sid Ganis, former president of...
Martin’s death was confirmed by a publicist for his family members.
After coming to Sony — then Columbia Pictures — as a production manager in 1981, Martin was elevated to overseeing production and post-production on the lot in 1988. In 2003, he took on the responsibilities of studio operations. His tenure at the studio helped steer the launch of franchises such as “Spider-Man,” “Men in Black” and Ron Howard’s adaptations of Dan Brown novels.
“As a colleague at Sony and then as the production head when I made a few films there, Gary was rough, tough, great at his work—-and one of the sweetest, most beautiful people on the lot,” Sid Ganis, former president of...
- 11/6/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Gary Martin, the longtime Sony Pictures executive and major supporter of the Motion Picture & Television Fund who has a historic Wizard of Oz soundstage named for him, has died. He was 79.
Martin died Thursday of natural causes at his home in Sherwood Forest, California, a family spokesperson announced.
When he retired as president of studio operations and production at Sony in 2013, the studio renamed its storied Stage 15 — one of the largest in the world — the Gary Martin Stage. Built in 1927, it was used for 1939’s The Wizard of Oz — the yellow brick road is under the current stage floor — and more recently for Spider-Man and Men in Black films.
At the dedication, then-Sony Pictures Entertainment co-chair Amy Pascal said of Martin: “His leadership, grace and skill are unparalleled in our business. There is no one who comes close.”
He oversaw production of more than 600 films at the studio.
Martin died Thursday of natural causes at his home in Sherwood Forest, California, a family spokesperson announced.
When he retired as president of studio operations and production at Sony in 2013, the studio renamed its storied Stage 15 — one of the largest in the world — the Gary Martin Stage. Built in 1927, it was used for 1939’s The Wizard of Oz — the yellow brick road is under the current stage floor — and more recently for Spider-Man and Men in Black films.
At the dedication, then-Sony Pictures Entertainment co-chair Amy Pascal said of Martin: “His leadership, grace and skill are unparalleled in our business. There is no one who comes close.”
He oversaw production of more than 600 films at the studio.
- 11/6/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
For the past five months, it’s been “eerily quiet” at Steiner Studios, a sprawling complex of soundstages in Brooklyn.
When the Writers Guild of America ended its strike on Sept. 27, Doug Steiner, the chairman of the company, was hoping production would rebound. But on Oct. 11, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers suspended talks with SAG-AFTRA, meaning there is still no end in sight for the actors strike. The sides held five bargaining sessions this month, but management surprised the union with a late-night announcement that they were too far apart to stay at the table.
“I’m more stressed out than ever given the pause in the SAG negotiations,” Steiner tells Variety. “We’re just hoping it ends sooner rather than later. The amount of collateral damage is humongous.”
The strikes have cost the national economy about $6 billion, according to an estimate from Kevin Klowden, the chief...
When the Writers Guild of America ended its strike on Sept. 27, Doug Steiner, the chairman of the company, was hoping production would rebound. But on Oct. 11, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers suspended talks with SAG-AFTRA, meaning there is still no end in sight for the actors strike. The sides held five bargaining sessions this month, but management surprised the union with a late-night announcement that they were too far apart to stay at the table.
“I’m more stressed out than ever given the pause in the SAG negotiations,” Steiner tells Variety. “We’re just hoping it ends sooner rather than later. The amount of collateral damage is humongous.”
The strikes have cost the national economy about $6 billion, according to an estimate from Kevin Klowden, the chief...
- 10/18/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
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With Hollywood’s strikes stretching into their fifth month, nearly 3,000 Hollywood workers have pulled a combined $44.6 million from their reserves in the Motion Picture Industry Pension Plan to make ends meet, according to three individuals with knowledge.
According to the data obtained by TheWrap, The Motion Picture Industry Pension and Health Plans (often referred to as MPI) hardship withdrawal program received 1,449 applications in its first day and a total of 2,953 by Sept. 7, a number that insiders say is nearly double what was seen during the pandemic. On average, the withdrawal requests asked for $15,000 to be taken from the pension plan, with the total amount of funds requested through Sept. 7 totaling $44.6 million.
On Sept. 1, the MPI opened up applications for the hardship withdrawal program allowing members who joined prior to this...
With Hollywood’s strikes stretching into their fifth month, nearly 3,000 Hollywood workers have pulled a combined $44.6 million from their reserves in the Motion Picture Industry Pension Plan to make ends meet, according to three individuals with knowledge.
According to the data obtained by TheWrap, The Motion Picture Industry Pension and Health Plans (often referred to as MPI) hardship withdrawal program received 1,449 applications in its first day and a total of 2,953 by Sept. 7, a number that insiders say is nearly double what was seen during the pandemic. On average, the withdrawal requests asked for $15,000 to be taken from the pension plan, with the total amount of funds requested through Sept. 7 totaling $44.6 million.
On Sept. 1, the MPI opened up applications for the hardship withdrawal program allowing members who joined prior to this...
- 9/12/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Veteran filmmaker Paul Feig donated $100,000 to the Motion Picture and Television Fund’s Community Care Fund, TheWrap has learned. The money will help Southern California members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) as the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA labor strikes against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have created financial challenges for below-the-line workers.
The writers have been on strike since May 2. The actors joined them on the picket line July 14. This rare dual action has mostly brought Tinseltown to a standstill, and, as Feig told TheWrap, it’s a time when striking laborers and the Hollywood community at large should be looking out for “those caught in the crossfire.”
“As filmmakers and storytellers, we are nothing without our crews and all of the support personnel who make it possible for us to create our movies and series,” Feig said. “As an industry,...
The writers have been on strike since May 2. The actors joined them on the picket line July 14. This rare dual action has mostly brought Tinseltown to a standstill, and, as Feig told TheWrap, it’s a time when striking laborers and the Hollywood community at large should be looking out for “those caught in the crossfire.”
“As filmmakers and storytellers, we are nothing without our crews and all of the support personnel who make it possible for us to create our movies and series,” Feig said. “As an industry,...
- 9/8/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Four months into the writers strike and almost two months into the actors’, the fear of industry workers losing their apartments and homes due to the work stoppage has become an increasingly looming threat. In July, Deadline published a story with quotes from an anonymous studio exec saying the game plan was to let the strikes drag on until union members were losing their housing, and at a recent event, Entertainment Community Fund chair Annette Bening confirmed that is indeed happening.
David Baach, an actor who has been part of SAG since 2015 with credits on Curb Your Enthusiasm and Silicon Valley, is among those who have received a grant from the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Assistance Program. For the last year, he’s lived in a rent-controlled, one-bedroom apartment in Larchmont, and before the strike, was always able to entirely cover his rent and bills with the money he earned as a working actor.
David Baach, an actor who has been part of SAG since 2015 with credits on Curb Your Enthusiasm and Silicon Valley, is among those who have received a grant from the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Assistance Program. For the last year, he’s lived in a rent-controlled, one-bedroom apartment in Larchmont, and before the strike, was always able to entirely cover his rent and bills with the money he earned as a working actor.
- 9/5/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Directors Guild Foundation announced on Wednesday that it is making a $100,000 donation to the Motion Picture and Television Fund to support entertainment workers financially strained by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
“Our film crews are our work family. We need to help everyone who’s suffering,” said Directors Guild Foundation chairman Todd Holland said in a statement. “The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
The Dgf’s contribution comes two weeks after MPTF president/CEO Bob Beitcher sent out an open letter urging Hollywood to provide more support to the organization in its efforts to provide financial grants to workers struggling to make ends meet. The DGA and the Dgf have been regular contributors to the MPTF’s relief fund.
“Our film crews are our work family. We need to help everyone who’s suffering,” said Directors Guild Foundation chairman Todd Holland said in a statement. “The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
The Dgf’s contribution comes two weeks after MPTF president/CEO Bob Beitcher sent out an open letter urging Hollywood to provide more support to the organization in its efforts to provide financial grants to workers struggling to make ends meet. The DGA and the Dgf have been regular contributors to the MPTF’s relief fund.
- 8/30/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Amid Hollywood’s summer of strikes, the Directors Guild Foundation is pledging $100,000 in financial assistance to the Motion Picture & Television Fund for crew members affected by strike-related production halts.
“Our film crews are our work family. We need to help everyone who’s suffering,” said Todd Holland, Directors Guild Foundation film chair.
“The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
The $100,000 donation to the MPTF is an addition to Dgf’s existing assistance efforts, which includes its interest-free loan program and the Directors Guild of America’s emergency relief grants for its members. The DGA has also been a longtime supporter of the MPTF, to the tune of “millions of dollars of contributions to the general MPTF fund,...
“Our film crews are our work family. We need to help everyone who’s suffering,” said Todd Holland, Directors Guild Foundation film chair.
“The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
The $100,000 donation to the MPTF is an addition to Dgf’s existing assistance efforts, which includes its interest-free loan program and the Directors Guild of America’s emergency relief grants for its members. The DGA has also been a longtime supporter of the MPTF, to the tune of “millions of dollars of contributions to the general MPTF fund,...
- 8/30/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
The Directors Guild Foundation is contributing $100,000 in new financial assistance to the Motion Picture & Television Fund for industry workers affected by the ongoing strikes. The Writers Guild has been on strike since May 2 and SAG-AFTRA since July 14.
“Our film crews are our work family,” Dgf Foundation Chairman Todd Holland said. “We need to help everyone who’s suffering. The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
MPTF’s president and CEO Bob Beitcher: “The generous support of MPTF and the community it serves by the DGA and the DGA Foundation is a true blessing to our industry. Our appreciation is immense.”
Added a DGA spokesman, “The Dgf, DGA and MPTF for decades have had a close relationship,...
“Our film crews are our work family,” Dgf Foundation Chairman Todd Holland said. “We need to help everyone who’s suffering. The DGA Foundation supports the vital mission of the MPTF to support the crews who work alongside us with crucially important financial assistance. The need is so great, and we are glad the Directors Guild Foundation can help meet the challenge.”
MPTF’s president and CEO Bob Beitcher: “The generous support of MPTF and the community it serves by the DGA and the DGA Foundation is a true blessing to our industry. Our appreciation is immense.”
Added a DGA spokesman, “The Dgf, DGA and MPTF for decades have had a close relationship,...
- 8/30/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Months into the combined writers and actors strikes, at a time of spiking food insecurity in Hollywood, hundreds of volunteer crewmembers distributed food, as well as household and personal care items, to peers at the Motion Picture & Television Fund campus in Woodland Hills on Thursday.
The drive-through food distribution event served about 1,000 households of Hollywood workers who have been financially impacted by the strike, according to an estimate provided by MPTF on Thursday. Organized by crew unions IATSE and the Teamsters Local 399 as well as MPTF, Labor Community Services, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Matthew 25 Ministries, it was the crew unions’ second such food drive in two months: In July, not long after SAG-AFTRA joined the Writers Guild of America on strike, IATSE and Local 399 hosted a similar food drive at the former union’s West Coast headquarters in Burbank, distributing 1,740 food boxes and feeding an estimated 8,700 people.
The drive-through food distribution event served about 1,000 households of Hollywood workers who have been financially impacted by the strike, according to an estimate provided by MPTF on Thursday. Organized by crew unions IATSE and the Teamsters Local 399 as well as MPTF, Labor Community Services, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Matthew 25 Ministries, it was the crew unions’ second such food drive in two months: In July, not long after SAG-AFTRA joined the Writers Guild of America on strike, IATSE and Local 399 hosted a similar food drive at the former union’s West Coast headquarters in Burbank, distributing 1,740 food boxes and feeding an estimated 8,700 people.
- 8/24/2023
- by Katie Kilkenny
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Motion Picture & Television Fund president and CEO Bob Beitcher wrote an open letter to the industry on Thursday, calling for greater support of below-the-line crewmembers amid the writers and actors strikes.
The MPTF — which supports working and retired members of the entertainment community via health and social services including temporary financial assistance, case management and residential living — has gone from 100 calls a week to 500 to 1,000 a week, Beitcher said, “90 percent of them about financial assistance and 80 percent of them from our crew community.
“Members of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have been very generous in stepping up to support their own members, but as a community we are not doing enough to support the tens of thousands of crew members and others who live paycheck to paycheck and depend on this industry for their livelihood,” Beitcher continued in his letter. “They have become the forgotten casualties during these strikes, overlooked by the media.
The MPTF — which supports working and retired members of the entertainment community via health and social services including temporary financial assistance, case management and residential living — has gone from 100 calls a week to 500 to 1,000 a week, Beitcher said, “90 percent of them about financial assistance and 80 percent of them from our crew community.
“Members of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have been very generous in stepping up to support their own members, but as a community we are not doing enough to support the tens of thousands of crew members and others who live paycheck to paycheck and depend on this industry for their livelihood,” Beitcher continued in his letter. “They have become the forgotten casualties during these strikes, overlooked by the media.
- 8/17/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bob Beitcher, president and CEO of the Motion Picture and Television Fund, sent out an open letter to the entertainment industry pleading for more support for his organization’s efforts to give financial aid to Hollywood’s working class as the industry’s double strike continues.
“Members of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have been very generous in stepping up to support their own members, but as a community we are not doing enough to support the tens of thousands of crew members and others who live paycheck to paycheck and depend on this industry for their livelihood,” Beitcher wrote.
Founded by Mary Pickford in 1921, the Motion Picture and Television Fund was created to provide financial and medical support to struggling workers in the entertainment industry. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the org saw requests for emergency relief grants surge as the industry was forced to shut down for several months in 2020.
Now,...
“Members of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have been very generous in stepping up to support their own members, but as a community we are not doing enough to support the tens of thousands of crew members and others who live paycheck to paycheck and depend on this industry for their livelihood,” Beitcher wrote.
Founded by Mary Pickford in 1921, the Motion Picture and Television Fund was created to provide financial and medical support to struggling workers in the entertainment industry. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the org saw requests for emergency relief grants surge as the industry was forced to shut down for several months in 2020.
Now,...
- 8/17/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
The Motion Picture & Television Fund has sent out an urgent plea for donations to help below-the-line crew members effected by the ongoing Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA strikes – workers whom MPTF President & CEO Bob Beitcher says, “Have become the forgotten casualties during these strikes.” Many of those seeking assistance, he says, “are at risk of losing their homes, their cars, and their ability to pay utility or medical bills.”
In an open letter to the entertainment community (read it in full below), Beitcher said that “these strikes are having an absolutely awful and devastating impact on the non-striking industry workforce, most especially our below-the-line crews.”
Donations can be made here.
As reported here Wednesday, MPTF has already granted nearly $1 million in financial assistance to industry workers since the Writers Guild went on strike on May 2, followed by SAG-AFTRA on July 14. And during the first seven months of 2023, requests to...
In an open letter to the entertainment community (read it in full below), Beitcher said that “these strikes are having an absolutely awful and devastating impact on the non-striking industry workforce, most especially our below-the-line crews.”
Donations can be made here.
As reported here Wednesday, MPTF has already granted nearly $1 million in financial assistance to industry workers since the Writers Guild went on strike on May 2, followed by SAG-AFTRA on July 14. And during the first seven months of 2023, requests to...
- 8/17/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Motion Picture & Television Fund will host a food drive August 24 to help out industry members affected by the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Volunteers are being provided by IATSE and Teamsters Local 399, with donations from the Matthew 25: Ministries and Labor Community Services, the non-profit arm of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, which is the primary fundraiser.
The food drive will be held on the MPTF campus in Woodland Hills from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says the charity has been “flooded with calls” since the Writers Guild went on strike on May 2 and SAG-AFTRA on July 14. “MPTF is closing in on total financial assistance during the work stoppage of $1 million,” he said. “In the past 30 days alone, we’ve received more than 4,500 calls for help with financial assistance. To put that into perspective, in a typical month,...
The food drive will be held on the MPTF campus in Woodland Hills from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says the charity has been “flooded with calls” since the Writers Guild went on strike on May 2 and SAG-AFTRA on July 14. “MPTF is closing in on total financial assistance during the work stoppage of $1 million,” he said. “In the past 30 days alone, we’ve received more than 4,500 calls for help with financial assistance. To put that into perspective, in a typical month,...
- 8/17/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
For over 100 years, the Motion Picture & Television Fund has provided financial support and services to entertainment industry members in need of help. That need has never been greater as the actors strike stretches into its third week and the writers strike into its third month — both with no end in sight and thousands unable to work.
To support the fund, Max Greenfield, Darren Criss, Colman Domingo, Yvette Nicole Brown and Harry Shum Jr. joined hundreds of guests on the Neuhouse Hollywood rooftop on Sunday night for the MPTF Next Gen Summer Party.
While the mood was festive, the strikes and their implications for Hollywood were never far from anyone’s mind.
“There are people who have asked, ‘Why are you going to a party?’ But we need this funding to be able to help people,” explained Brown. “I was talking to [MPTF president] Bob Beitcher, who said that the fund was...
To support the fund, Max Greenfield, Darren Criss, Colman Domingo, Yvette Nicole Brown and Harry Shum Jr. joined hundreds of guests on the Neuhouse Hollywood rooftop on Sunday night for the MPTF Next Gen Summer Party.
While the mood was festive, the strikes and their implications for Hollywood were never far from anyone’s mind.
“There are people who have asked, ‘Why are you going to a party?’ But we need this funding to be able to help people,” explained Brown. “I was talking to [MPTF president] Bob Beitcher, who said that the fund was...
- 8/7/2023
- by Alex Cramer
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
John Campbell, 60, has been working in the film industry for 29 years as a grip and as a driver. In July, he was dropped from the industry health plan for the first time in his career, falling 7.5 hours short of the threshold needed to maintain eligibility.
He signed up for Cobra — at a cost of $692 per month — while he called around trying to get a single day of work. But with two strikes underway, it was not easy.
He is not alone — lots of veteran crew members are in the same boat.
“Here we are in our 29th year, 30th year, 35th year, and we’re still scrambling like the day we got into the business,” Campbell said.
SAG-AFTRA took to the picket lines on July 14, joining the the Writers Guild of America, which has been on strike for three months. Work had already been slow for a couple of months...
He signed up for Cobra — at a cost of $692 per month — while he called around trying to get a single day of work. But with two strikes underway, it was not easy.
He is not alone — lots of veteran crew members are in the same boat.
“Here we are in our 29th year, 30th year, 35th year, and we’re still scrambling like the day we got into the business,” Campbell said.
SAG-AFTRA took to the picket lines on July 14, joining the the Writers Guild of America, which has been on strike for three months. Work had already been slow for a couple of months...
- 8/1/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Motion Picture & Television Fund has seen a “significant spike” in requests for financial assistance from industry members impacted by the month-old Writers Guild strike.
Jennifer Jorge, MPTF’s Director of Community Social Services, tells Deadline that since the start of the strike on May 2, “We have experienced a significant spike in the volume of calls received on a daily basis, on the high days completing over 40 new intakes, a stark difference from the 10-15 calls we are typically used to experiencing. That is 40 individuals who are calling in distress and are experiencing a crisis.”
Since the strike began, she said, “We have spoken with more than 500 members of the entertainment community, of which over 64% have contacted MPTF inquiring about services related to the work stoppage, namely financial assistance. New requests for financial assistance account for 36% of the total requests, which is a 39% increase from around this time...
Jennifer Jorge, MPTF’s Director of Community Social Services, tells Deadline that since the start of the strike on May 2, “We have experienced a significant spike in the volume of calls received on a daily basis, on the high days completing over 40 new intakes, a stark difference from the 10-15 calls we are typically used to experiencing. That is 40 individuals who are calling in distress and are experiencing a crisis.”
Since the strike began, she said, “We have spoken with more than 500 members of the entertainment community, of which over 64% have contacted MPTF inquiring about services related to the work stoppage, namely financial assistance. New requests for financial assistance account for 36% of the total requests, which is a 39% increase from around this time...
- 6/2/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
A star-studded host committee, Academy Awards nominees and presenters, along with some of the most powerful industry influencers came together on March 11, 2023, for MPTF's 21st annual ‘Night Before’ benefit.
Bob Beitcher, George Clooney, Cate Blanchett, Angela Bassett, Christopher Nolan at MPTF Night Before Event
Credit/Copyright: Shutterstock
Funds raised will be used to support industry members and their families who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike. Co-Chaired by Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, and Emma Thomas & Christopher Nolan, the annual event raised over $4.5 million, totaling over $100 million in the event’s history.
The 2023 host committee included a lineup of the industry’s most elite talent, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma & Vin Diesel,...
Bob Beitcher, George Clooney, Cate Blanchett, Angela Bassett, Christopher Nolan at MPTF Night Before Event
Credit/Copyright: Shutterstock
Funds raised will be used to support industry members and their families who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike. Co-Chaired by Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, and Emma Thomas & Christopher Nolan, the annual event raised over $4.5 million, totaling over $100 million in the event’s history.
The 2023 host committee included a lineup of the industry’s most elite talent, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma & Vin Diesel,...
- 3/13/2023
- Look to the Stars
Saturday, aka the night before the Oscars, proved to be a starry night on the Fox lot.
The Motion Picture & Television Fund mounted its annual “Night Before” party, and the 21st annual fundraiser was typically teeming with Oscar winners and nominees, filmmakers, executives and entertainment industry insiders. The results are cause for celebration as the event raised more than $4.5 million for a total of more than $100 million over the event’s history.
The event was co-chaired by 2023 Oscar nominees Angela Bassett and Cate Blanchett with George Clooney, Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan, all of whom were in attendance Saturday night. The host committee included boldfaced names and many of this year’s Oscar nominees, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma and Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey, Jr., Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Salma Hayek Pinault, Brian Tyree Henry, Catherine Martin and Baz Luhrmann,...
The Motion Picture & Television Fund mounted its annual “Night Before” party, and the 21st annual fundraiser was typically teeming with Oscar winners and nominees, filmmakers, executives and entertainment industry insiders. The results are cause for celebration as the event raised more than $4.5 million for a total of more than $100 million over the event’s history.
The event was co-chaired by 2023 Oscar nominees Angela Bassett and Cate Blanchett with George Clooney, Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan, all of whom were in attendance Saturday night. The host committee included boldfaced names and many of this year’s Oscar nominees, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma and Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey, Jr., Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Salma Hayek Pinault, Brian Tyree Henry, Catherine Martin and Baz Luhrmann,...
- 3/12/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A star-studded host committee, Co-Chairs, Academy Awards nominees and presenters, along with some of the most powerful industry influencers will come together on March 11, 2023, for the 21st annual ‘Night Before’ party to benefit MPTF (Motion Picture & Television Fund).
Co-Chaired by Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, and Emma Thomas & Christopher Nolan, the event raises funds to support industry members who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike.
This year’s host committee will boast a lineup of the industry’s most elite talent, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma & Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey Jr, Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, Paul Mescal, Echo and Ke Huy Quan,...
Co-Chaired by Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, and Emma Thomas & Christopher Nolan, the event raises funds to support industry members who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike.
This year’s host committee will boast a lineup of the industry’s most elite talent, including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Paloma & Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey Jr, Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, Paul Mescal, Echo and Ke Huy Quan,...
- 3/7/2023
- Look to the Stars
It’s nearly the night before the Academy Awards.
That means the Motion Picture & Television Fund is finalizing details for the 21st annual “Night Before” fundraiser that will be held on the Fox lot on March 11, the evening before the Oscars. Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Christopher Nolan and wife Emma are set as co-chairs of the starry gathering that will raise funds to support industry members who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services.
Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan
The host committee includes a number of this year’s Oscar nominees including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Baz Luhrmann, Catherine Martin, Paul Mescal, Ke Huy Quan, Diane Warren and Michelle Yeoh. Also on the committee are Paloma and Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey Jr., Echo Quan, Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks.
That means the Motion Picture & Television Fund is finalizing details for the 21st annual “Night Before” fundraiser that will be held on the Fox lot on March 11, the evening before the Oscars. Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Christopher Nolan and wife Emma are set as co-chairs of the starry gathering that will raise funds to support industry members who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services.
Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan
The host committee includes a number of this year’s Oscar nominees including Austin Butler, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser, Brendan Gleeson, Brian Tyree Henry, Baz Luhrmann, Catherine Martin, Paul Mescal, Ke Huy Quan, Diane Warren and Michelle Yeoh. Also on the committee are Paloma and Vin Diesel, Susan and Robert Downey Jr., Echo Quan, Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks.
- 3/1/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Hollywood has answered the call and rallied to the rescue of the Motion Picture & Television Fund, which late last year was facing its “imminent demise” and the very real prospect of closing its doors and going out of business. Since MPTF sounded the alarm in October, emergency fundraising efforts have raised nearly 12 million and saved the 101-year-old charity from the brink of disaster caused by a “perfect storm” of rising expenses and declining revenue during the Covid pandemic.
And while the immediate crisis has passed and MPTF’s financial condition has stabilized, it’s still in urgent need of donations in order to continue operating as a safety net for thousands of film and TV industry workers, and as a retirement home for hundreds of industry veterans.
“We’ve stepped back from the brink,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Deadline. “We squeaked through our ‘whew moment,...
And while the immediate crisis has passed and MPTF’s financial condition has stabilized, it’s still in urgent need of donations in order to continue operating as a safety net for thousands of film and TV industry workers, and as a retirement home for hundreds of industry veterans.
“We’ve stepped back from the brink,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Deadline. “We squeaked through our ‘whew moment,...
- 1/7/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Actor Aubrey Plaza dropped an F-bomb on live TV Saturday when she called into the “Lights, Camera, Take Action” telethon that aired on Ktla-tv Los Angeles and raised nearly 860,000 for the Motion Picture and Television Fund Home.
Plaza spoke excitedly in support of MPTF on speakerphone to actor Clark Gregg, who appeared live in Ktla’s Hollywood studio to serve as part of the telethon’s celebrity phone bank. Ktla’s longtime entertainment anchor Sam Rubin leaned his microphone into the conversation and asked Plaza about her role on HBO’s “The White Lotus” in its second season.
Plaza joked that the season would end with her killing off the other characters. “They’re all fucking dead,” Plaza said in jest. Earlier she also dropped a “don’t give a shit.” Rubin apologized to viewers minutes later, sheepishly suggesting that Plaza may not have realized she was on the air live.
Plaza spoke excitedly in support of MPTF on speakerphone to actor Clark Gregg, who appeared live in Ktla’s Hollywood studio to serve as part of the telethon’s celebrity phone bank. Ktla’s longtime entertainment anchor Sam Rubin leaned his microphone into the conversation and asked Plaza about her role on HBO’s “The White Lotus” in its second season.
Plaza joked that the season would end with her killing off the other characters. “They’re all fucking dead,” Plaza said in jest. Earlier she also dropped a “don’t give a shit.” Rubin apologized to viewers minutes later, sheepishly suggesting that Plaza may not have realized she was on the air live.
- 12/11/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Tonight’s MPTF’s telethon on Ktla raised 858,493 for Hollywood’s 101-year-old charitable organization – exceeding the 750,000 that it had targeted. Jeff Bridges, who was one of the many stars who appeared on the show, noted that the MPTF is in “dire straits” due to the extraordinary Covid expenses it’s racked up over the last three years.
MPTF said in October that it’s facing its “imminent demise” unless it raises 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of this year in order to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
Related: MPTF To Hold Telethon December 10 On Ktla As Charity Struggles To Meet Fundraising Goals To Stay Afloat
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said last week that the current fundraising campaign has only raised about half of that. Tonight’s telethon – called Lights, Camera, Take Action! – gets them nearly 1 million closer to meeting its fundraising needs.
MPTF said in October that it’s facing its “imminent demise” unless it raises 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of this year in order to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
Related: MPTF To Hold Telethon December 10 On Ktla As Charity Struggles To Meet Fundraising Goals To Stay Afloat
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said last week that the current fundraising campaign has only raised about half of that. Tonight’s telethon – called Lights, Camera, Take Action! – gets them nearly 1 million closer to meeting its fundraising needs.
- 12/11/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Motion Picture & Television Fund’s star-packed telethon Lights, Camera, Take Action! airs live Saturday on Ktla beginning at 7 p.m. It hopes to raise at least 750,000 to defray some of the 9 million in direct Covid expenses it’s racked up over the past three years – and to help keep more than 250 residents of the retirement village from having to move out.
If you can’t watch it on Ktla, you can watch the livestream above.
The 101-year-old charitable organization said in October it’s facing its “imminent demise” unless it raises 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of the year in order to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said a week ago that the current fundraising campaign has only raised about half of what’s needed. MPTF officials hope tonight’s two-hour telethon will get them a little closer.
If you can’t watch it on Ktla, you can watch the livestream above.
The 101-year-old charitable organization said in October it’s facing its “imminent demise” unless it raises 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of the year in order to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher said a week ago that the current fundraising campaign has only raised about half of what’s needed. MPTF officials hope tonight’s two-hour telethon will get them a little closer.
- 12/11/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Motion Picture and Television Fund has been the favored charity of Hollywood’s elite for generations. Founded 101 years ago, the non-profit operates a home for industry retirees and provides grants to film workers in need, and lives by the insular motto “We take care of our own.”
But after being battered by the pandemic, the organization is now asking for help from outside of the entertainment community. On Saturday, MPTF will hold its first-ever telethon on Ktla, asking the general public to contribute.
“This is our opportunity to say, ‘Hey, you live in Southern California. Hollywood is the largest industry. You’ve spent your life watching great film and TV,'” said Bob Beitcher, CEO of MPTF. “Now it’s time to think about the people who are making it or made it.”
The MPTF sounded an alarm in a fundraising letter in October, warning supporters that increased costs...
But after being battered by the pandemic, the organization is now asking for help from outside of the entertainment community. On Saturday, MPTF will hold its first-ever telethon on Ktla, asking the general public to contribute.
“This is our opportunity to say, ‘Hey, you live in Southern California. Hollywood is the largest industry. You’ve spent your life watching great film and TV,'” said Bob Beitcher, CEO of MPTF. “Now it’s time to think about the people who are making it or made it.”
The MPTF sounded an alarm in a fundraising letter in October, warning supporters that increased costs...
- 12/8/2022
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Responding to the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s’ urgent call for help to stay in business, several industry leaders and organizations have stepped up — but not nearly as many as are needed to keep Hollywood’s 101-year-old charity afloat. MPTF hopes to raise at least 300,000 in its star-studded first telethon, which will air December 10 on Ktla in Los Angeles.
Hit by a “perfect storm” of rising expenses and declining revenue during the Covid pandemic, the MPTF said in October that it was facing its “imminent demise” and the very real prospect of closing its doors and going out of business by the end of 2022 unless it received 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of the year to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
Related Story MPTF Facing "Imminent Demise" & Prospect Of Going Out Of Business By Year’s End Unless It Raises 10 Million-12 Million Soon...
Hit by a “perfect storm” of rising expenses and declining revenue during the Covid pandemic, the MPTF said in October that it was facing its “imminent demise” and the very real prospect of closing its doors and going out of business by the end of 2022 unless it received 10 million-12 million in cash donations by the end of the year to meet its bank line compliance and continue ongoing operations.
Related Story MPTF Facing "Imminent Demise" & Prospect Of Going Out Of Business By Year’s End Unless It Raises 10 Million-12 Million Soon...
- 12/2/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
On Oct. 24, the head of Hollywood’s most beloved charity, the century-old Motion Picture & Television Fund, warned of its “imminent demise” if it didn’t raise at least 10 million by the end of this year. CEO Bob Beitcher wrote in an open letter sent to industry members the next day that, since the onset of the pandemic, the organization, which provides social services and residential options for currently employed and retired entertainment workers, had incurred a massive operating shortfall largely stemming from Covid-related expenses and lost earnings from philanthropic events.
“Never sufficiently endowed, MPTF has always survived year to year and deficit to deficit,” he explained in the letter, which also ran as an ad in The Hollywood Reporter. “We are now operating in dangerous territory, rapidly depleting our cash reserves.” Beitcher argued that the organization’s capacity to help the thousands...
On Oct. 24, the head of Hollywood’s most beloved charity, the century-old Motion Picture & Television Fund, warned of its “imminent demise” if it didn’t raise at least 10 million by the end of this year. CEO Bob Beitcher wrote in an open letter sent to industry members the next day that, since the onset of the pandemic, the organization, which provides social services and residential options for currently employed and retired entertainment workers, had incurred a massive operating shortfall largely stemming from Covid-related expenses and lost earnings from philanthropic events.
“Never sufficiently endowed, MPTF has always survived year to year and deficit to deficit,” he explained in the letter, which also ran as an ad in The Hollywood Reporter. “We are now operating in dangerous territory, rapidly depleting our cash reserves.” Beitcher argued that the organization’s capacity to help the thousands...
- 11/8/2022
- by Gary Baum and Katie Kilkenny
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
The Motion Picture & Television Fund, the prominent Hollywood charity founded over 100 years ago by Mary Pickford, “desperately” and “urgently” needs donations amid a steep drop in cash reserves, its president and CEO is telling industry leaders.
“Coming through the pandemic, every member of the MPTF fiduciary team has been forced to take a hard look at our financial circumstances; and right now, things don’t look good,” Bob Beitcher wrote to industry leaders in an email on Tuesday. “Since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, MPTF has incurred a staggering operating shortfall—the result of Covid-related costs for residents and staff on our campus in Woodland Hills, nursing shortages and lower occupancy rates, and lost revenues from our major events during the pandemic—all costing us over 20 million.” Deadline was the first to report on the message.
According to an auditor...
The Motion Picture & Television Fund, the prominent Hollywood charity founded over 100 years ago by Mary Pickford, “desperately” and “urgently” needs donations amid a steep drop in cash reserves, its president and CEO is telling industry leaders.
“Coming through the pandemic, every member of the MPTF fiduciary team has been forced to take a hard look at our financial circumstances; and right now, things don’t look good,” Bob Beitcher wrote to industry leaders in an email on Tuesday. “Since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, MPTF has incurred a staggering operating shortfall—the result of Covid-related costs for residents and staff on our campus in Woodland Hills, nursing shortages and lower occupancy rates, and lost revenues from our major events during the pandemic—all costing us over 20 million.” Deadline was the first to report on the message.
According to an auditor...
- 10/25/2022
- by Katie Kilkenny
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 100-plus-year-old Motion Picture & Television Fund, hit by a “perfect storm” of rising expenses and declining revenue, is facing its “imminent demise” and the very real prospect of closing its doors and going out of business by the end of 2022 unless it gets a dramatic infusion of cash donations.
“Our mission has never faced such dire challenges,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says in an urgent appeal that’s going out to some 600 industry leaders. “To put it bluntly, the MPTF legacy and mission – our ability to exist – are in real jeopardy. Our ability to continue to support the thousands of industry members on our campus and in the community who depend on the MPTF for food, shelter, charitable assistance, medical care and socialization, literally hangs in the balance. Without some dramatic infusion of funds, we will not be able to take care of our own much longer.”
“After...
“Our mission has never faced such dire challenges,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says in an urgent appeal that’s going out to some 600 industry leaders. “To put it bluntly, the MPTF legacy and mission – our ability to exist – are in real jeopardy. Our ability to continue to support the thousands of industry members on our campus and in the community who depend on the MPTF for food, shelter, charitable assistance, medical care and socialization, literally hangs in the balance. Without some dramatic infusion of funds, we will not be able to take care of our own much longer.”
“After...
- 10/25/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Today is Giving Day at the Motion Picture & Television Fund – a day on which it celebrates the 101st anniversary of its first donation. But on this Giving Day, the MPTF is sending out an urgent call so that it can continue to help industry professionals in need.
By the end of this year, MPTF’s Covid-related expenses will have topped 9 million since the start of the pandemic, pushing its cash reserves into “the critical zone.” So it’s asking the industry to “step up,” either through donations or by volunteering.
“We’d love to see the average industry worker commit a little bit of money every month to making sure that this place is around when they need us in the future, or when the people who work on the set with them need us in the future,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Deadline. “People shouldn...
By the end of this year, MPTF’s Covid-related expenses will have topped 9 million since the start of the pandemic, pushing its cash reserves into “the critical zone.” So it’s asking the industry to “step up,” either through donations or by volunteering.
“We’d love to see the average industry worker commit a little bit of money every month to making sure that this place is around when they need us in the future, or when the people who work on the set with them need us in the future,” MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Deadline. “People shouldn...
- 9/22/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Television’s biggest night took place in Century City, CA Sunday, September 11th, where the entertainment industry came together for MPTF's 16th annual “Evening Before” benefit. 3 million was raised to support the 100 year-old charity — a stunning record for the event.
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Greg Berlanti, and Pearlena Igbokwe served as the event’s Co-Chairs.
Guests were also treated to a concert curated by MPTF Board of Governor member Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, featuring performances by Jackson, along with music industry legend Snoop Dogg, and special guests Flo Rida, Jeremih, Lil Tjay, Mann, O.T. Genasis, Tony Yayo, and Uncle Murda.
The television industry, including Emmy nominees, presenters, and other talent and executives, helped raise 3 million to support their industry colleagues and friends who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, caregiving support, case management, and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is...
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Greg Berlanti, and Pearlena Igbokwe served as the event’s Co-Chairs.
Guests were also treated to a concert curated by MPTF Board of Governor member Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, featuring performances by Jackson, along with music industry legend Snoop Dogg, and special guests Flo Rida, Jeremih, Lil Tjay, Mann, O.T. Genasis, Tony Yayo, and Uncle Murda.
The television industry, including Emmy nominees, presenters, and other talent and executives, helped raise 3 million to support their industry colleagues and friends who benefit from MPTF’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, caregiving support, case management, and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is...
- 9/15/2022
- Look to the Stars
Click here to read the full article.
If this were a typical year, by this point on Monday the winners would be known and their Emmys would be en route to shelves and safes across town. But since 2022’s calendar is decidedly not normal, and the Primetime Emmy Awards are still hours away, the Motion Picture & Television Fund had the honor of closing out the weekend with its 16th annual Evening Before the Emmys fundraiser in Los Angeles.
Mixing things up proved to be historic for the organization, as it raised a record-setting 3 million to support the 100-year-old nonprofit. The Century City party was treated to an electric performance by MPTF Board of Governors member Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, along with Snoop Dogg and special guests Flo Rida, Jeremih, Lil Tjay, Mann, O.T. Genasis, Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda.
50 Cent 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg
The host committee boasted...
If this were a typical year, by this point on Monday the winners would be known and their Emmys would be en route to shelves and safes across town. But since 2022’s calendar is decidedly not normal, and the Primetime Emmy Awards are still hours away, the Motion Picture & Television Fund had the honor of closing out the weekend with its 16th annual Evening Before the Emmys fundraiser in Los Angeles.
Mixing things up proved to be historic for the organization, as it raised a record-setting 3 million to support the 100-year-old nonprofit. The Century City party was treated to an electric performance by MPTF Board of Governors member Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, along with Snoop Dogg and special guests Flo Rida, Jeremih, Lil Tjay, Mann, O.T. Genasis, Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda.
50 Cent 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg
The host committee boasted...
- 9/12/2022
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Motion Picture & Television Fund commemorated its centennial anniversary with its 100 Years of Hollywood: A Celebration of Service gala, held at the Lot on Formosa in West Hollywood on Saturday night.
Founded in 1921 by silent screen legend Mary Pickford, the nonprofit organization provides working and retired members of the entertainment community with an array of social and health services including financial assistance, child and elder care, and residential living at its Wasserman Campus in Woodland Hills.
The gala was originally set to take place last year, but it was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. On the red carpet ahead of the event, MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Variety, “It’s a year in the making because we hoped to have done it last year and so to arrive at this point is great, but the anticipation of what the show is going to be and what...
Founded in 1921 by silent screen legend Mary Pickford, the nonprofit organization provides working and retired members of the entertainment community with an array of social and health services including financial assistance, child and elder care, and residential living at its Wasserman Campus in Woodland Hills.
The gala was originally set to take place last year, but it was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. On the red carpet ahead of the event, MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher told Variety, “It’s a year in the making because we hoped to have done it last year and so to arrive at this point is great, but the anticipation of what the show is going to be and what...
- 6/22/2022
- by Ashley Hume
- Variety Film + TV
MPTF (Motion Picture & Television Fund) continued its yearlong centennial celebration with “100 Years of Hollywood: A Celebration of Service,” an unforgettable evening of musical performances, tributes, and inspirational storytelling at The Lot at Formosa in West Hollywood, CA.
During the show, Jeffrey and Marilyn Katzenberg received the Silver Medallion Award while Adam Scott, Jodie Foster, Yvette Nicole Brown, Harry Northup, Casey Wasserman, Jim Gianopulos, and Peter Goldwyn took to the stage. The evening featured musical performances by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Ledisi, Tori Kelly, and Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies. Amanda Kloots, Cameron Monaghan, Carla Renata, Chuck Lorre, Heather Dowling, J. Lee, Kimberly Pierce, Mallory Weggemann, Natasha Bassett, Nicky Whelan, Omar Sharif Jr., Patrick Fabian, Pierson Fodé, Saxon Sharbino, and Tia Carrere also appeared at the benefit. The event was presented by City National Bank, Delta Air Lines, and UCLA Health, with support from Diamond sponsors Directors Guild of America,...
During the show, Jeffrey and Marilyn Katzenberg received the Silver Medallion Award while Adam Scott, Jodie Foster, Yvette Nicole Brown, Harry Northup, Casey Wasserman, Jim Gianopulos, and Peter Goldwyn took to the stage. The evening featured musical performances by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Ledisi, Tori Kelly, and Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies. Amanda Kloots, Cameron Monaghan, Carla Renata, Chuck Lorre, Heather Dowling, J. Lee, Kimberly Pierce, Mallory Weggemann, Natasha Bassett, Nicky Whelan, Omar Sharif Jr., Patrick Fabian, Pierson Fodé, Saxon Sharbino, and Tia Carrere also appeared at the benefit. The event was presented by City National Bank, Delta Air Lines, and UCLA Health, with support from Diamond sponsors Directors Guild of America,...
- 6/22/2022
- Look to the Stars
The Motion Picture & Television Fund, celebrating its 100th anniversary, might be the most active, admired — and most misunderstood — organization in Hollywood. Silent screen star Mary Pickford started the philanthropic org under the name Motion Picture Relief Fund (it was renamed in 1971).
Over the century, entertainment’s biggest heavyweights gave support. In 1965, Variety reported Elvis Presley’s 125,000 gift, the single biggest donation to that point. The fund has been supported by directors, actors and execs (Samuel Goldwyn to Jim Gianopulos). Key donors and recipients are behind-the-camera workers; for example, nearly 10,000 individuals received help in 2020 as everyone was hit by Covid.
“Part of my hope for the future: Communicating to the industry who we are and what we do,” says Bob Beitcher, MPTF president-ceo. “Probably seven out of 10 people in the industry don’t know who we are. I hope we can get the word out, to provide services for people...
Over the century, entertainment’s biggest heavyweights gave support. In 1965, Variety reported Elvis Presley’s 125,000 gift, the single biggest donation to that point. The fund has been supported by directors, actors and execs (Samuel Goldwyn to Jim Gianopulos). Key donors and recipients are behind-the-camera workers; for example, nearly 10,000 individuals received help in 2020 as everyone was hit by Covid.
“Part of my hope for the future: Communicating to the industry who we are and what we do,” says Bob Beitcher, MPTF president-ceo. “Probably seven out of 10 people in the industry don’t know who we are. I hope we can get the word out, to provide services for people...
- 6/17/2022
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Many in Hollywood value golden statues, but some put more value into the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated. The folks who run the Motion Picture Television Fund take the notion of caring for their colleagues to heart, lending a helping hand to industry members who need extra assistance during difficult times. The charity, founded in 1921 by Mary Pickford, is memorializing its 100th anniversary at its 100 Years of Hollywood: A Celebration of Service gala on June 18.
Though technically in its 101st year of existence, the nonprofit was unable to revel in the monumental milestone in-person in 2021 due to lingering Covid.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says, “We were going to do it last year, but it didn’t seem like it was the right time.”
They do, however, have a positive outlook on the postponement. “People don’t celebrate their 100th birthday twice, but we are.
Though technically in its 101st year of existence, the nonprofit was unable to revel in the monumental milestone in-person in 2021 due to lingering Covid.
MPTF president and CEO Bob Beitcher says, “We were going to do it last year, but it didn’t seem like it was the right time.”
They do, however, have a positive outlook on the postponement. “People don’t celebrate their 100th birthday twice, but we are.
- 6/17/2022
- by Courtney Howard
- Variety Film + TV
MPTF (Motion Picture & Television Fund) will continue its yearlong centennial celebration with “100 Years of Hollywood: A Celebration of Service,” an unforgettable evening of musical performances, tributes, and inspirational storytelling on Saturday, June 18th at The Lot at Formosa in West Hollywood, CA.
The special event will commemorate the organization’s 100th year of helping working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services. Jodie Foster, Harry Northup, Yvette Nicole Brown and more are set to appear, while musical guests including the Grammy Award Winning duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Tori Kelly, and Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies will take the stage to perform.
A highlight of the evening will be MPTF’s presentation of its honorary service award, the Silver Medallion, to Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg, longtime friends and supporters of MPTF. The Katzenbergs have played a vital and irreplaceable...
The special event will commemorate the organization’s 100th year of helping working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services. Jodie Foster, Harry Northup, Yvette Nicole Brown and more are set to appear, while musical guests including the Grammy Award Winning duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Tori Kelly, and Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies will take the stage to perform.
A highlight of the evening will be MPTF’s presentation of its honorary service award, the Silver Medallion, to Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg, longtime friends and supporters of MPTF. The Katzenbergs have played a vital and irreplaceable...
- 6/16/2022
- Look to the Stars
The Motion Picture & Television Fund on Friday said it will continue its yearlong centennial celebration with “100 Years of Hollywood: A Celebration of Service,” an event June 18 in West Hollywood that will feature musical performances and tributes. Jodie Foster, Harry Northup, Yvette Nicole Brown and more are set to appear at the event at The Lot at Formosa, along with musical guests set to include Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Tori Kelly, and Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies.
The MPTF said it will also use the occasion to present its honorary service award, the Silver Medallion, to Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg, longtime supporters of the organization, which helps working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services. Previous honorees include Lew and Edie Wasserman, Mary Pickford, Gregory Peck, Jules Stein, Jack Warner, Samuel Goldwyn, Howard Koch and Roddy McDowall.
“This 100th event...
The MPTF said it will also use the occasion to present its honorary service award, the Silver Medallion, to Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg, longtime supporters of the organization, which helps working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services. Previous honorees include Lew and Edie Wasserman, Mary Pickford, Gregory Peck, Jules Stein, Jack Warner, Samuel Goldwyn, Howard Koch and Roddy McDowall.
“This 100th event...
- 6/10/2022
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
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