JB Smoove to Lead Keynote at November Business Managers Breakfast in Los Angeles

JB Smoove will headline a keynote conversation at the annual Business Managers Breakfast in Los Angeles on Nov. 12. The Emmy-winning actor and producer, known for his work on Curb Your Enthusiasm and Saturday Night Live, is scheduled to speak about modern storytelling across television, film, and branded entertainment. He will also discuss his production companies, Alternate Side Productions and First Darrin. First Darrin is a creative agency that develops campaigns and advertising content using a comedic approach.

City National Bank serves as the presenting sponsor for the event. The gathering will celebrate the work of entertainment business managers featured in Variety's Business Managers Elite issue. Arnie Herrmann will receive the Business Managers Elite Award for his career contributions. Candice Bergen will present the honor to Herrmann. He currently supports the Jenna's Rainbow Foundation and the Irving Penn Foundation and has served on the board of MusiCares.

Evan Shapiro will participate in a separate segment with Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety. Shapiro, a Webby Award-winning creator, will discuss the impact of the creator economy on the entertainment industry. He is also an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer.

JaHan Wang, head of Entertainment and Sports Banking at City National Bank, noted the bank's long history with entertainment business managers. Wang stated that the bank has observed the impact of strong advisors. He added that the bank is honored to return as a sponsor to celebrate the people who help talent build careers that last.

Dea Lawrence, co-president and publisher of Variety, described business managers as a vital part of the entertainment ecosystem. She said the publication is pleased to partner again with City National Bank and congratulated Herrmann on the award.

Citrin Cooperman, Content Partners, Venable LLP, and Willkie are listed as supporting partners for the event.