A Hollywood shakeup will see the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) disband after 80 years, having sold off the broadcast rights to the Golden Globes.
Picking up the rights are Eldridge Industries – a holding company owned by billionaire Todd Boehly – and Dick Clark Productions – part of Penske Media. The assets have been bought for an undisclosed price.
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association has been marred by controversy in recent years. Making headlines have been incidents including a 2018 accusation from actor Brendan Fraser that former HFPA president Philip Berk groped him in 2003; a 2021 Los Angeles Times report finding that the organisation had been paying its members upwards of $1 million annually for serving on various committees, whilst still claiming a status of a tax-exempt non-profit organization; and ongoing criticism due to the lack of Black people and voices serving as members of the organisation.
“We are excited to close on this much-anticipated member-approved transaction and transition from a member-led organization to a commercial enterprise,” former HFPA president, Helen Hoehne, said in a statement.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Golden Globes,” said Eldridge Chairman, Boehly. “My partners at DCP and I are grateful to Helen and team for their commitment to the successful implementation of a robust approach to governance, the expansion of the diverse and international voting body, implementing a professional, safe and accountable environment, and trusting new ownership with a new direction for the Globes.”
“As stewards of the Golden Globe Awards, our mission is to continue creating the most dynamic awards ceremony on live television viewed across the world,” said Jay Penske, CEO, chairman and founder of Penske Media. “We have a great team in place to grow this iconic brand and captivate new and existing audiences to celebrate the very best in television and motion pictures.”
The 81st Golden Globe Awards ceremony is set to air January 7.
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