Navigating the dynamic world of entertainment in New York City requires more than just industry savvy; it demands expert legal counsel. In a landscape still adjusting to post-strike realities and economic fluctuations, the role of an Entertainment Lawyer Nyc has become increasingly crucial. These legal professionals are the linchpins of the industry, orchestrating deals, protecting rights, and steering clients through complex legal terrains, from sports rights negotiations to the burgeoning field of AI.
This curated list spotlights 25 of New York City’s most influential entertainment lawyers, recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as Power Lawyers in 2024. Their selection is based on the caliber of their clientele, the significance of their legal victories, and endorsements from industry peers. Delve into the profiles of these legal titans who are shaping headline-making court battles and facilitating powerhouse talent deals across the entertainment spectrum.
Robert Auritt (CDAS)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Brooklyn Law School
CORPORATE
Robert Auritt’s practice at CDAS exemplifies the breadth of expertise required of a top entertainment lawyer NYC. In a landmark move for sports in the US, Auritt served as outside general counsel for the U.S. portion of the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup, hosted in Long Island. He emphasizes the significance of this event, stating, “It was a real thrill to be involved with bringing this global event to the U.S. for the first time as I believe that it represents the beginning of massive growth for cricket’s popularity in the U.S. market.”
Beyond sports, Auritt is deeply involved in the cutting-edge legal issues surrounding Artificial Intelligence. He advises clients on licensing their data for generative AI systems, a crucial area for copyright holders. “Ethical AI licensing is the only way for copyright owners to be able to control, and to be compensated for, the use of their work as the foundation on which the AI industry is building its services,” Auritt asserts, highlighting his proactive approach to protecting intellectual property in the digital age.
Most surprising item on my desk: “A woodcut paperweight that my teenage daughter made me with the name of my old band carved into it. The band name cannot be printed in a family magazine.”
Jared Bartie (Willkie Farr)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Northwestern
CORPORATE
Jared Bartie, chair of Willkie Farr & Gallagher’s Sports Transactions Practice, is at the forefront of the evolving sports ownership landscape. As an experienced entertainment lawyer NYC specializing in sports, Bartie has witnessed a surge in activity driven by institutional capital. “The increasing impact of institutional capital and the direction forward with respect to professional sports and sports-adjacent properties is the ‘right now’ sports business angle to follow,” he notes. This trend signifies a major shift in sports business and requires expert legal navigation to ensure deals are structured effectively and fairly. Bartie’s focus underscores the financial complexities and high stakes involved in modern sports transactions.
Power lunch spot: “My desk.”
My guilty TV pleasure: “Any episode of any season of Dateline.”
David Berlin (Schreck Rose)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
University of Texas
TALENT
David Berlin of Schreck Rose represents some of the brightest talents in the entertainment industry. His client roster includes the newly minted EGOT winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, celebrated for their Emmy-winning composition from Only Murders in the Building. As a leading entertainment lawyer NYC for talent, Berlin also guided Pasek and Paul in their collaboration with Pharrell Williams for the upcoming Universal feature Atlantis.
Berlin’s expertise extends to Broadway, where he witnessed Shaina Taub’s triumph at the Tony Awards for her musical Suffs. He also played a key role in bringing Cole Escola’s dark comedy play Oh, Mary! to Broadway, showcasing his ability to nurture and promote diverse talent across different entertainment mediums. His work highlights the crucial role of an entertainment lawyer in fostering creative success.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Ally McBeal!”
App I can’t live without: “NYT Games.”
Gary Bornstein (Cravath)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Harvard
LITIGATION
Gary Bornstein of Cravath is a formidable force in entertainment litigation. His representation of Epic Games in their antitrust battle against Google marks a landmark case in the tech world. This high-stakes litigation, concerning mobile app distribution and in-app payments, culminated in a verdict against Google, potentially reshaping the app store economy. For any company facing complex legal challenges, especially in antitrust matters, an entertainment lawyer NYC like Bornstein is invaluable.
Beyond antitrust, Bornstein’s expertise is sought in major corporate disputes. He represents Paramount’s special committee in litigation related to the proposed merger with Skydance and is reportedly advising Murdoch siblings in their dealings with Rupert Murdoch, showcasing his capacity to handle multifaceted and high-profile legal battles.
Favorite social media: “None. Not my thing.”
Carrie Casselman (Davis Wright Tremaine)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Columbia
CORPORATE
Carrie Casselman, alongside partner Gray Coleman at Davis Wright Tremaine, is a key legal figure for nonprofit institutional theaters. As a respected entertainment lawyer NYC, Casselman represents The Public Theater, Manhattan Theater Club, and other vital theatrical institutions nationwide. She also collaborates with prominent entertainers and media companies venturing into live theater, bridging different segments of the entertainment industry. “I love working with clients that really see what they can do on the live stage as complementary to other media,” Casselman states, emphasizing the synergistic potential between various entertainment platforms.
Most surprising item on my desk: “A flashlight/multitool right next to my desk phone — I’ve never had to fix something with it, but I’m ready if circumstances warrant!”
App I can’t live without: “The WNYC App — nerd alert.”
Dale Cendali (Kirkland & Ellis)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Harvard
LITIGATION
Dale Cendali of Kirkland & Ellis is renowned for her expertise in copyright and intellectual property litigation, particularly within the entertainment sector. A significant victory for Cendali was the precedent-setting decision on the copyrightability of tattoos. She successfully defended Take-Two Interactive against allegations of copyright infringement for depicting LeBron James’ tattoos in their games. This case, as Cendali notes, “was an important case for the entertainment industry in being able to depict people realistically as they choose to look, as well as for tattooed people who expect the right to control their own bodies.” For issues concerning copyright and artistic representation, Cendali is a go-to entertainment lawyer NYC.
Further demonstrating her broad litigation skills, Cendali represents the family of William Styron in a contract dispute over stage production rights for Sophie’s Choice, showcasing her commitment to protecting literary estates.
App I can’t live without: “The Yankees YES app.”
My guilty TV pleasure: “Miss Scarlet and the Duke.”
Marc Chamlin (Loeb & Loeb)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
NYU
TALENT
Marc Chamlin at Loeb & Loeb is a trusted advisor to entertainment industry titan Oprah Winfrey, managing her extensive portfolio of projects. His work spans from scripted series and specials on diverse topics like weight loss and AI to the launch of the People’s Fund of Maui with Dwayne Johnson, supporting wildfire victims. Chamlin’s broad practice reflects the diverse needs of his high-profile clients. For talent like Glenn Close, Chamlin facilitated her roles in Ryan Murphy’s All’s Fair and Knives Out 3. He also represents Andy Cohen in publishing ventures, highlighting his versatility as an entertainment lawyer NYC adept at both talent and corporate deals. “I’ve always had a really diverse practice, which reflects my restless soul,” Chamlin remarks, emphasizing his adaptable approach to law.
App I can’t live without: “Audible.”
Marcie Cleary (Frankfurt Kurnit)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Yale
TALENT
Marcie Cleary of Frankfurt Kurnit specializes in representing emerging comedy talents like Chloé Hilliard, Rekha Shankar, and Eagle Witt. In a rapidly changing industry, Cleary is instrumental in helping these talents navigate disruptions and expand their opportunities. As an entertainment lawyer NYC focused on career development, Cleary explains, “Opportunities for talent continue to be somewhat limited, so I am often being called upon by my clients not only to help navigate complex deals, but also to think creatively about developing content that will expand their professional opportunities.” Her proactive approach is crucial for artists seeking to build sustainable careers in today’s entertainment landscape.
How I celebrate a big win or closing a deal: “I go to bed early!”
Gray Coleman (Davis Wright Tremaine)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
University of Virginia
CORPORATE
Gray Coleman, partnering with Carrie Casselman at Davis Wright Tremaine, serves as primary outside counsel for several prestigious nonprofit theaters. His dedication to the theater community as an entertainment lawyer NYC has seen fruition with new musicals like Hell’s Kitchen, Suffs, and Water for Elephants moving from development to Broadway. Coleman’s work underscores the vital legal support necessary for the thriving New York theater scene.
Most surprising item on my desk: “A small vase illustrating the ‘seven ages of man’ speech from As You Like It, and a small tambourine used in the original production of Hair.”
Lisa Davis (Frankfurt Kurnit)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
NYU
TALENT
Lisa Davis of Frankfurt Kurnit represents a diverse array of Hollywood creatives. Her client Michael Harriot achieved New York Times best-seller status with Black AF History, and the Apollo Theater, another client, received Kennedy Center Honors, highlighting Davis’s impact on her clients’ success. However, Davis also acknowledges the current challenges facing creatives. “We’re in an inflection point in the entertainment and media industry. … There are a lot of challenges coming from every direction for creative people,” she observes. As an experienced entertainment lawyer NYC, Davis is crucial in helping talent navigate these industry shifts.
My song of summer 2024: “ ‘Not Like Us’ by Kendrick Lamar.”
Peter Grant (Grubman Shire)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Penn
TALENT
Peter Grant at Grubman Shire represents A-list Hollywood talent on both coasts, including Spike Lee, Robert De Niro, and Lady Gaga. His recent deals include Ana de Armas’ role in Ron Howard’s Eden and Bruce Springsteen’s collaboration with Disney for a documentary and scripted film. Grant also advises David Letterman’s Worldwide Pants and Richard Plepler’s Eden Productions, showcasing his broad influence as an entertainment lawyer NYC.
A significant concern for Grant and his clients is the rise of AI. “We spend a lot of time these days stopping people from doing things with our clients’ likenesses,” he states, underscoring the growing importance of protecting talent rights in the age of AI.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Jack McCoy from Law & Order.”
My song of summer 2024: “Same as 1984 — ‘Panama’ by Van Halen.”
Gregory Hessinger (Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
St. John’s University
CORPORATE
Gregory Hessinger of Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp is a leading labor and employment lawyer in the entertainment industry. His advisory role to the AMPTP and major studios during the actors and writers strikes provided him with a front-row seat to industry disruptions. As an entertainment lawyer NYC specializing in labor law, Hessinger comments on the long-term trends, “It seems I’ve been saying this my entire 30-plus years in the entertainment industry, but changes in technology and distribution platforms will place pressure on some of the most fundamental frameworks that labor and management have used to divide the pie for several decades.” His insights are crucial for understanding the evolving dynamics between labor and management in entertainment.
App I can’t live without: “Fishbrain.”
My song of summer 2024: “ ‘Saturn’ by SZA.”
Mike Hill (Covington)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Fordham
CORPORATE
Mike Hill at Covington represented the NBA in its monumental $76 billion agreements with NBCUniversal, Disney, and Amazon. These deals are transformative for the media industry and how sports are consumed. “It is not every day that you get to work on deals of this magnitude that will reshape the business of the media industry and the way fans watch their favorite teams and players,” Hill reflects. As an entertainment lawyer NYC involved in major media transactions, Hill also notes the challenges posed by the changing media landscape and the rise of bundled services. “It will be interesting to see how companies navigate those risks in light of market demands,” he adds, highlighting the need for strategic legal foresight.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Kim Wexler from Better Call Saul.”
Wook Hwang (Sheppard Mullin)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Columbia
LITIGATION
Wook Hwang of Sheppard Mullin is a prominent litigator handling high-profile disputes in the entertainment and digital media sectors. He defended Amazon Studios against copyright infringement claims over the Road House remake and initiated counterclaims regarding the original screenplay rights. Hwang’s work demonstrates the aggressive legal strategies employed in Hollywood copyright battles. Furthermore, as an entertainment lawyer NYC dealing with digital media, Hwang represented Condé Nast in their lawsuit against Drake and 21 Savage over the unauthorized Vogue cover promoting their album, showcasing his expertise in handling modern media and publicity rights disputes.
How I celebrate a big win or closing a deal: “I tell my preteen daughter, who tells me she doesn’t care.”
Most surprising item on my desk: “A custom mechanical keyboard that’s virtually silent when you type.”
Anders Linderot (Covington)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Cornell
LITIGATION
Anders Linderot of Covington is at the forefront of First Amendment litigation, notably in the case concerning TikTok’s U.S. operations. He successfully obtained a preliminary injunction against Montana’s TikTok ban and dismissed Indiana’s lawsuit regarding content concerns. Linderot is now leading the challenge against federal legislation effectively banning TikTok, highlighting his critical role in digital freedom and content regulation. As an entertainment lawyer NYC focused on constitutional law, Linderot observes the broader trend: “governments probing the limits of their power to regulate content delivery, and challenges and opportunities resulting from the increasing overlap between the technology and entertainment industries.”
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Matlock.”
Favorite social media follow: “First Amendment Twitter (for work) and TikTok (for fun).”
Jonathan Lonner (Grubman Shire)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Northwestern
TALENT
Jonathan Lonner, along with Adam Rosen at Grubman Shire, represents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group and collaborates with A24 on programming for the Cherry Lane Theatre. Lonner’s work as an entertainment lawyer NYC spans theater and film, including representing the Luther Vandross estate in showcasing a documentary at Sundance and Tribeca. His diverse clientele and projects demonstrate his broad expertise in entertainment law.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Stuart Markowitz (L.A. Law).”
Favorite social media follow: “Anything dog- or travel-related.”
Michael Mahan (Peikoff Mahan)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Southwestern
TALENT
Michael Mahan of Peikoff Mahan represents high-profile talent like Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who recently won his second Emmy for The Bear and will star in Marvel’s The Fantastic Four. Mahan negotiated Isabella Merced’s roles in The Last of Us season two, Alien: Romulus, and the upcoming Superman film. His client roster also includes Carrie Coon and Cynthia Erivo, demonstrating his reach across film and television. Mahan’s success as an entertainment lawyer NYC is evident in the caliber of projects and accolades his clients achieve.
The most surprising item on my desk: “Sometimes a sleeping cat.”
My guilty TV pleasure: “Jeopardy — nerd alert, I know.”
Lucy Popkin (Goodman Genow)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Stanford
TALENT
Lucy Popkin at Goodman Genow represents rising stars like Milly Alcock (House of the Dragon, DC’s Supergirl) and Joseph Quinn (Gladiator 2). Her client list also includes Nicola Coughlin, Luke Newton, and Chris Perfetti, showcasing her knack for identifying and nurturing emerging talent. Popkin’s background as a professional ballet dancer informs her legal practice, giving her unique empathy for performers. “I so closely relate to being a performer and how impossible it is to advocate for yourself without being seen as demanding or a diva or difficult,” she explains. As an entertainment lawyer NYC, Popkin is a strong advocate for her clients’ rights and careers.
Favorite social media follow: “The Dogist. The highest and best use of social media is cute puppies.”
Power lunch spot: “Frankie’s 457 Spuntino, in my Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn neighborhood. Real power is never having to schlep to Midtown.”
Adam Rosen (Grubman Shire)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
NYU
TALENT
Adam Rosen, working with Jonathan Lonner at Grubman Shire, collaborates with A24 and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group. His projects include A24’s programming at the Cherry Lane Theatre and Webber’s new ventures, such as Amazon’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat film adaptation. Rosen also represents Elton John on the musical Tammy Faye. His diverse portfolio highlights his expertise as an entertainment lawyer NYC in both film and theater.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “Miranda Hobbes.”
My favorite social media follow: “LizaMinnelliOutlives.”
Josh Sandler (Granderson Des Rochers)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
UCLA
TALENT
Josh Sandler of Granderson Des Rochers has seen his clients thrive in the broadcast sitcom resurgence, with Janelle James starring in Abbott Elementary and Brandon Scott Jones in Ghosts. Sandler also represents Pete Davidson, from his pre-SNL days to starring alongside Eddie Murphy in The Pickup. Sandler reflects on Davidson’s career trajectory, “When he and I met, it was pre-SNL. Now I just made a deal for him to star with his hero Eddie Murphy.” As an entertainment lawyer NYC, Sandler’s long-term client relationships and ability to guide talent through different career stages are notable.
Power lunch spot: “Krav Maga Experts — a different kind of power lunch.”
App I can’t live without: “Chess.com is a love-hate relationship that started during the pandemic, and we’re currently taking a break, but I always go back.”
Alison Stein (Jenner & Block)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Penn
LITIGATION
Alison Stein of Jenner & Block has been active in both traditional litigation for clients like Meta and Nintendo and in the emerging field of generative AI. She emphasizes the growing partnerships between content and AI companies. “It is incredibly important to recognize that a lot of partnerships are being forged between content companies and AI companies,” Stein states. As a forward-thinking entertainment lawyer NYC, she believes these collaborations will lead to “interesting and exciting content and media projects, many of which are sure to be pioneering.” Her work positions her at the cutting edge of legal issues in AI and media.
Favorite social media follow: “My brother, Sam Stein, managing editor of The Bulwark and MSNBC contributor.”
My guilty TV pleasure: “Right now, I am ripping through Trying on Apple TV. It is so good!”
Alli Stillman (Latham & Watkins)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Penn
LITIGATION
Alli Stillman of Latham & Watkins secured a significant victory for Spotify against royalty claims from Eminem’s publishing company. The judge ruled in favor of Spotify, rejecting a $40 million claim. Stillman is also defending OpenAI in copyright infringement lawsuits from authors and publishers, placing her at the center of key legal battles in the music and AI industries. As a leading entertainment lawyer NYC in litigation, Stillman’s caseload highlights the complex copyright issues in digital media.
Most surprising item on my desk: “Hot sauce.”
My song of summer 2024: “‘Good Luck Babe’ by Chappell Roan.”
Rachel Strom (Davis Wright Tremaine)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Cardozo
LITIGATION
Rachel Strom of Davis Wright Tremaine is a First Amendment advocate. She successfully defended A+E Networks against an attempt to block the Wendy Williams documentary and assisted in dismissing a copyright lawsuit against Abbott Elementary. Strom is also defending Netflix in a defamation lawsuit related to Inventing Anna. “That was a true joy and privilege, kind of the reason that you go to law school doing the work that we love,” Strom says of her work on the Wendy Williams case. As an entertainment lawyer NYC with a focus on First Amendment rights, Strom is a strong defender of creative expression.
If I were a TV lawyer, I’d be: “I wish I could say [Suits’] Jessica Pearson, but probably Miranda Hobbes.”
Favorite social media follow: “Ellie the Elephant, the New York Liberty mascot and sometimes the only thing that gives me hope in humanity.”
Michael Williams (Frankfurt Kurnit)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Albany Law School
TALENT
Michael Williams of Frankfurt Kurnit specializes in representing fashion industry clients. He brokered deals for Christie Brinkley’s clothing line TWRHLL, Petra Collins’ Nike campaign, and Miranda Kerr’s ambassadorship with Michael Hill Jeweller. His client roster includes models, photographers, and designers like Dita Von Teese. As an entertainment lawyer NYC with a focus on fashion and branding, Williams bridges the gap between entertainment and fashion law.
App I can’t live without: “Trident Mindset.”
Power Lunch Spots: “Emilio’s Ballato and Manhatta.”
Nancy Wolff (CDAS)
Robert Auritt, Entertainment Lawyer NYC
Rutgers
LITIGATION
Nancy Wolff at CDAS is focused on the impact of AI on photography and visual media. She advises clients on AI usage, data licensing for AI training, and navigating the legal landscape of AI-generated content. “I spend much of my time advising clients on best practices in using AI as a tool, helping clients license data sets for AI training and advising clients on the ever-evolving legal landscape around AI content,” Wolff explains. As an entertainment lawyer NYC specializing in copyright and AI, Wolff is concerned with preserving visual history in the age of AI and misinformation. “In the new era of AI-generated images, and fake news, it’s important to preserve our visual history for generations to come,” she emphasizes.
App I can’t live without: “NYT Cooking.”
Conclusion
The entertainment lawyers NYC featured on this Power List represent the pinnacle of legal expertise in a complex and evolving industry. From navigating traditional media deals to tackling cutting-edge issues in AI and digital rights, these attorneys are indispensable to the entertainment ecosystem in New York City and beyond. Their diverse practices and significant achievements underscore the critical role of specialized legal counsel in fostering creativity, protecting rights, and driving progress in the entertainment world. For anyone seeking legal guidance in this dynamic field, these power lawyers offer a benchmark of excellence and a testament to the strength of New York City’s entertainment law community.
