Overview
Erik Hyman is a partner and global co-chair of the Entertainment and Media practice. Mr. Hyman is well known in the entertainment industry as a cutting-edge dealmaker and a fierce protector of his clients, which include award-winning movie stars, high-level television creators and showrunners, lead cast members of popular programs on scripted and unscripted television, “first-dollar-gross” producers, and preeminent writers and directors. He is a tenacious champion for his diverse clients, whether they are creative individuals, film financiers, or high-net-worth families making entertainment and media industry investments. Mr. Hyman also works closely with multiple publicly traded, non-entertainment companies, steering their television and motion picture industry strategies and branded entertainment projects.
Mr. Hyman negotiates vanguard talent transactions; structures the financing, acquisition, and sale of independent films; and builds major endorsement campaigns and product lines. He also advises companies regarding strategies for the production and exploitation of content for digital platforms.
Mr. Hyman is a frequent public speaker and serves as chairman of the board of the Herb Ritts Foundation, a private charitable foundation focused on HIV/AIDS research and advocacy.
Recognitions
- The Legal 500 USA, Media and Entertainment: Transactional (2022)
- Chambers USA, Media & Entertainment: Transactional: Mainly Talent (2022)
- Named “Southern California Rising Star” in Entertainment & Sports by Thomson Reuters (2006–2007)
Education
- Columbia University School of Law, J.D.
- Managing Editor, Columbia/VLA Journal of Law and the Arts
- Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar
- University of Michigan, B.A.
Representations
Mr. Hyman has represented:
- Chris Storer in his overall deal with FX along with his company, American Light & Fixture. Chris is creator, writer, executive producer, and director of the hit series The Bear for FX/Hulu.
- Emmy-nominated actor and performer Anthony Ramos in connection with his role as the star of the new Transformers franchise and the new Marvel series, Ironheart.
- Jac Schaeffer in her overall deal with Marvel Studios and 20th Television following the success of her series WandaVision.
- Jason Beghe in negotiating his return to star in and executive produce the hit NBC series Chicago PD.
- Danielle Brooks in negotiating her return to HBOMax in the role of Leota Adebayo in the DC Extended Universe, and in negotiating a deal for her to star as Sophia in The Color Purple musical movie for Warner Bros.
- Alexandra Milchan in putting together Oscar-nominated film Tar for Focus Features.
- Starbucks in connection with engagement of high level entertainment talent.
- Meta in connection with strategic entertainment industry advice.
Involvement
- Chairman, Board of Directors, the Herb Ritts Foundation