Smoove to Keynote Nov 12 Breakfast

The 2026 Business Managers Breakfast will feature a keynote address by JB Smoove on November 12. The event, presented by City National Bank, takes place in Los Angeles and centers on the annual Business Managers Elite issue.

Variety has held this breakfast for years to recognize top entertainment business managers. The gathering serves to connect the professionals featured in the magazine's elite ranking with industry leaders. This year's program focuses on the evolving role of advisors in the entertainment sector.

Smoove, an Emmy Award-winning actor and producer, will lead the opening conversation. His recent work includes roles on Curb Your Enthusiasm and Saturday Night Live. He also founded Alternate Side Productions and First Darrin, a creative agency. First Darrin develops branded content and shorts for advertising campaigns from a comedic perspective.

Evan Shapiro, a Webby Award-winning creator and producer, will also speak. He will discuss the creator economy's impact on the entertainment industry alongside Cynthia Littleton, Variety's co-editor-in-chief. Shapiro holds Emmy and Peabody Awards for his production work.

Arnie Herrmann will receive the Variety Business Managers Elite Award for his career contributions. Candice Bergen, an award-winning actress, will present the honor. Herrmann currently supports the Jenna’s Rainbow Foundation and the Irving Penn Foundation. He has served for many years on the board of MusiCares.

City National Bank returned as the presenting sponsor for the event. JaHan Wang, head of Entertainment and Sports Banking at the bank, stated that the firm has worked with top business managers for decades. Wang said the bank is honored to celebrate the people who help talent build lasting careers.

Dea Lawrence, co-president and publisher of Variety, noted that business managers are a vital part of the entertainment ecosystem. She expressed pleasure at partnering with City National Bank again. Citrin Cooperman, Content Partners, Venable LLP, and Willkie are supporting partners for the November 12 gathering.