Mike Medavoy is an American film producer and the chairman and co-founder of Phoenix Pictures. He has been involved in the film industry for over 45 years, contributing to over 300 feature films, including 17 that have been nominated for Best Picture Oscars, with seven winning the award. Medavoy began his career at Universal Studios in 1964, rising from the mailroom to become a casting director. In 1971, he joined International Famous Agency as vice-president in charge of the motion picture department, where he represented prominent clients such as Steven Spielberg, Francis Ford Coppola, and Gene Wilder. In 1974, he became a senior vice president of production at United Artists, where he was involved with iconic films like "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," "Rocky," and "Annie Hall."

In 1978, Medavoy co-founded Orion Pictures, where he was instrumental in the release of films such as "Platoon," "Amadeus," and "The Silence of the Lambs." After twelve years at Orion, he became the chairman of TriStar Pictures in 1990, overseeing films like "Philadelphia," "Terminator 2: Judgment Day," and "Sleepless in Seattle." Today, at Phoenix Pictures, he has produced notable films including "The People vs. Larry Flynt," "The Thin Red Line," "Zodiac," "Shutter Island," and "Black Swan." Medavoy's dedication to cinema has earned him numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cannes Film Festival in 1992, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005, Chevalier of the French Government’s Legion of Honor in 2009, and the Chilean Order of Bernardo O'Higgins Award in 2014.

Aside from his production career, Medavoy is a published author, with bestsellers such as "You’re Only As Good As Your Next One" and "American Idol After Iraq," which discusses the impact of media on U.S. foreign policy. He is currently working on his third book, exploring his heritage and career. Medavoy is also an active member of the community, having served on various boards including the UCLA Foundation and the American Cinematheque. He resides in Los Angeles, California with his wife, Irena Medavoy, and two sons, Brian and Nicholas.

Entertainers, Producers and Directors, Authors, Celebrity Leadership,