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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009
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Top Hollywood Talent Shops OK Merger

As star payouts dip, William Morris and Endeavor join forces

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(Newser) – Two of Hollywood's top talent agencies agreed to merge today amid declining revenues in film and television, Variety reports. Pending government approval, the venerable William Morris Agency will share a new Beverly Hills office with 14-year-old Endeavor—and likely spark a flurry of clients and agents scurrying for new representation.

The new mega-agency will build on WMA's influence in music and literature and Endeavor's focus on film and television. Called William Morris Endeavor Entertainment, the company is expected lay off about 100 agents, most from WMA's ranks. The deal "hung by a thread" only last month, Nikki Finke writes in Deadline Hollywood Daily: Endeavor was more reluctant to merge "because of fears there was too much risk and not enough upside."

Actress Jill Hennessy, Chief Executive Officer Jim Wiatt of William Morris Agency and Paolo Mastropietro schmooze at MoMA on May 12, 2008 in New York City.
Actress Jill Hennessy, Chief Executive Officer Jim Wiatt of William Morris Agency and Paolo Mastropietro schmooze at MoMA on May 12, 2008 in New York City.   (Getty Images)
Chief Executive Officer Jim Wiatt of William Morris Agency (L) and Head of Weinstein Company Harvey Weinstein pose at MoMA on May 12, 2008 in New York City.
Chief Executive Officer Jim Wiatt of William Morris Agency (L) and Head of Weinstein Company Harvey Weinstein pose at MoMA on May 12, 2008 in New York City.   (Getty Images)
Harvey Weinstein (L) speaks with Ari Emanuel (C) during the premiere of Fahrenheit 9/11 at the Uptown Theater June 23, 2004 in Washington, DC.
Harvey Weinstein (L) speaks with Ari Emanuel (C) during the premiere of Fahrenheit 9/11 at the Uptown Theater June 23, 2004 in Washington, DC.   (Getty Images)
William Morris Agency chairman and CEO Jim Wiatt arrives for the annual Allen and Co.'s media conference Wednesday, July 11, 2007, in Sun Valley, Idaho.
William Morris Agency chairman and CEO Jim Wiatt arrives for the annual Allen and Co.'s media conference Wednesday, July 11, 2007, in Sun Valley, Idaho.   (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac)
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SPH
Apr 28, 09 4:19 PM CDT
These mega mergers tend to stifle competition and benefit the few at the expense of the many...They should not be allowed..... Reply
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