David Kramer to become UTA chief, replacing Jeremy Zimmer
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The longtime head of one of Hollywood’s most prominent talent agencies is passing the baton.
Jeremy Zimmer, 66, is stepping aside as chief executive of Beverly Hills-based United Talent Agency and will be replaced by UTA veteran David Kramer, who is being promoted from president.
The transition has been long in the works, with Kramer, 56, as Zimmer’s chosen successor for years.
United Talent Agency CEO Jeremy Zimmer is pushing for streamers to share more of their revenue with actors, writers and other talent. The push comes as the entertainment industry, including UTA, evolves.
Zimmer, who became CEO in 2012, will stay on through the rest of the year as executive chairman to help with the transfer of power.
“These 35 years at UTA have been so incredibly rewarding,” said Zimmer in a statement. “While transition is never easy, this particular moment feels very right.”
Under Zimmer, UTA grew from its status as a small literary agency into expanding its representation business to include musicians, athletes, authors and digital content creators. As streaming changed the way talent was paid, he was a vocal advocate for getting artists better deals.
The talent agency business has changed dramatically over the years. Ari Emanuel’s Endeavor evolved into a conglomerate with multiple lines of businesses, while Creative Artists Agency acquired ICM.
UTA’s business has remained primarily representing talent.
Kramer became UTA’s president in 2022. He began his career in the agency’s mail room before moving to the motion picture department.
Said Kramer in a statement: “I am honored to serve as the next CEO of this incredible company and work with our talented team of agents and executives who, unlike any other, prioritize clients above all else, and share a commitment to delivering tailored, impactful opportunities.”
