Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP‘s media and entertainment practice is a hub for expertise in M&A, complex film finance transactions, and joint ventures across the film, live entertainment, and television sectors as well as in rapidly expanding areas such as interactive products and entertainment-related technology. Based in Los Angeles, the practice is led by two co-heads: Kevin Masuda is known for his representation of content companies in various transactions and strategic agreements, and Benyamin Ross has substantial experience advising on investments, joint ventures, and commercial agreements within the technology, media, and entertainment space. Complementing them are private equity specialist Ari Lanin and Steve Tsoneff, who maintains close relationships with a roster of content producers, distributors, and financiers, with a particular focus on audiovisual content. Further key contacts in the team include Sarah Graham, who boasts a strong track record of representing media, entertainment, technology, and gaming companies in a range of business transactions, and Taylor Hathaway-Zepeda, whose expertise lies in divestitures, joint ventures, equity investments, restructuring, and general corporate governance.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Media team is exceptional. They bring strong foundational knowledge to the deals but remain practical.’

Key clients

  • Shaquille O’Neal
  • Jersey Legends
  • National Football League
  • Universal Pictures
  • The North Road Company
  • The Chernin Group
  • Rachel Maddow
  • Klutch Sports Group
  • Tornante Company
  • Candle Media
  • SC Holdings
  • LeBron James

Work highlights

  • Advised Shaquille O’Neal and his production company Jersey Legends on its strategic partnership with the newly formed Authentic Studios, the entertainment division of Authentic Brands Group.
  • Advised the National Football League on its joint venture with Skydance Media to create a global multi-sports production studio with Skydance Sports.
  • Advised Universal Pictures in connection with the merger of Blumhouse and Atomic Monster.

Lawyers

Leading lawyers
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Kevin Masuda, Benyamin Ross

Other key lawyers

Ari Lanin, Steve Tsoneff, Sarah Graham, Taylor Hathaway-Zepeda