William Morris and Endeavor Approve Merger

Variety reports that the leaders of WMA and Endeavor have agreed to a merger, forming a true powerhouse, WME Entertainment, that promises to change the landscape of the talent business.

The combination of the 111-year-old WMA and the 14-year-old Endeavor will create a mega-agency whose combined assets extend into virtually every aspect of the entertainment and media world.

The merger, which is still subject to government approvals, also creates the largest competitor to CAA since that agency solidified its position as Hollywood's dominant tenpercentery more than two decades ago reports Variety. To read the full article click here.

Leading WME Entertainment will be WMA chief exec Jim Wiatt as chairman, while Endeavor toppers Ari Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell and WMA prexy Dave Wirtschafter will serve as co-CEOs.

The merger holds appeal for both companies, combining departments and strengths that in many cases are complementary explains the paper.

In addition to its valued core film and TV business, William Morris has developed a proficiency in music, television commercials and, to some degree, brands, giving it multiple revenue sources during a time when the entertainment business is consolidating regarding such catergories. Endeavor, on the hand, is known for its deep reserve of acting talent, particularly comedy; many of t biggest names in the industry that appear in front of the camera now call Endeavor home.