Science & Technology
Lynette Howell Taylor Elected as President of Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences
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Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 20:47 GMT by Variety🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Producer Lynette Howell Taylor has been named the new president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences by the organization's Board of Governors. She replaces Janet Yang, who has served as the Academy's president since 2021. Howell Taylor becomes the fifth woman behind Yang (2021-2025), Fay Kanin (1979-1983), Cheryl Boone Isaacs (2013-2017) and
Lynette Howell Taylor Elected President of the Producers Guild of America
In a significant development for the film and television industry, acclaimed producer Lynette Howell Taylor has been elected as the new president of the Producers Guild of America (PGA). This announcement marks a pivotal moment for the organization, which represents over 8,000 producers across various media formats and plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and recognition of producers in Hollywood and beyond. Taylor, known for her work on high-profile films such as "A Star is Born" and "The Accountant," steps into this leadership position with a wealth of experience and a vision to further elevate the guild's influence in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
The election took place during the PGA's biennial membership meeting, where members voted to install a new slate of officers for the 2023-2025 term. Taylor succeeds the outgoing presidents Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who served jointly in the role since 2021. Under their tenure, the PGA navigated challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on production, labor disputes, and the rise of streaming platforms, all while pushing for greater diversity and inclusion within the industry. Taylor's ascension continues this trajectory, bringing her unique perspective as a hands-on producer who has collaborated with some of the biggest names in cinema.
Lynette Howell Taylor's journey to this prestigious position is a testament to her dedication and achievements in the field. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Taylor moved to the United States to pursue her passion for filmmaking. She founded her production company, 51 Entertainment, which has been instrumental in bringing compelling stories to the screen. Her breakthrough came with projects like "The Place Beyond the Pines" in 2013, where she worked alongside director Derek Cianfrance and stars Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper. This collaboration laid the groundwork for her later successes, including producing "Captain Fantastic" in 2016, which earned Viggo Mortensen an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
However, it was her involvement in the 2018 remake of "A Star is Born," directed by and starring Bradley Cooper alongside Lady Gaga, that catapulted Taylor into the spotlight. The film was a critical and commercial hit, grossing over $436 million worldwide and receiving eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Taylor herself was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture as one of the film's producers. This accolade not only highlighted her skill in shepherding ambitious projects from conception to completion but also underscored her ability to navigate the complexities of studio financing, talent management, and creative vision alignment.
Beyond "A Star is Born," Taylor's filmography includes diverse titles such as "The Accountant" (2016), starring Ben Affleck, and "Big Eyes" (2014), directed by Tim Burton. More recently, she produced "Bruiser" and has been involved in upcoming projects that promise to push boundaries in storytelling. Her work often focuses on character-driven narratives that explore human emotions and societal issues, reflecting her commitment to meaningful cinema. Taylor's election to the PGA presidency is seen by many as a natural progression, given her active involvement in the guild over the years. She has served on various committees and has been a vocal advocate for producers' rights, particularly in the areas of credit attribution and fair compensation.
The Producers Guild of America, founded in 1950, has long been a cornerstone of the entertainment industry. Originally established to protect the interests of film producers, the organization has expanded its scope to include television, new media, and emerging formats. One of its most notable contributions is the Producers Mark (p.g.a.), a certification that designates true producers on a project, helping to clarify roles in an industry where credits can sometimes be murky. The PGA also hosts the annual Producers Guild Awards, which are considered a strong predictor of Oscar success, often aligning closely with the Academy Awards' Best Picture category.
In her new role, Taylor is expected to address several pressing issues facing producers today. The industry is still recovering from the disruptions caused by the global pandemic, which halted productions and shifted audience habits toward streaming. Additionally, the recent writers' and actors' strikes have highlighted the need for better labor relations and equitable deals in the age of digital distribution. Taylor has expressed a desire to foster greater collaboration between producers, studios, and streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon, ensuring that producers are fairly compensated for their intellectual property in an era where content is king.
In a statement following her election, Taylor emphasized her commitment to inclusivity and innovation. "I am honored to lead the Producers Guild at such a dynamic time in our industry," she said. "Producers are the unsung heroes who bring stories to life, and it's my goal to amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and create opportunities for the next generation of diverse talent." Her words resonate with the guild's ongoing efforts to promote diversity. Under previous leadership, the PGA launched initiatives like the Producers Mentorship Program, which pairs emerging producers from underrepresented backgrounds with established mentors. Taylor plans to expand these programs, drawing from her own experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field.
The election also saw other key positions filled, strengthening the guild's leadership team. Stephanie Allain, a veteran producer known for films like "Hustle & Flow" and "Dear White People," was elected as vice president. Allain's extensive experience in independent cinema and her advocacy for Black filmmakers will complement Taylor's vision. Other officers include Christina de Haven as vice president of television, Melissa Rucker as vice president of events, and Barry Waldman as treasurer. This diverse slate reflects the PGA's commitment to representing a broad spectrum of voices within the producing community.
Industry insiders have reacted positively to Taylor's election. Fellow producer and former PGA president Hawk Koch praised her as "a force of nature who understands the intricacies of production from every angle." Similarly, Academy Award-winning producer Donna Gigliotti noted that Taylor's leadership comes at a crucial time, as the industry grapples with technological advancements like AI and virtual production. "Lynette has the vision to guide us through these changes while preserving the artistry that defines our work," Gigliotti said.
Looking ahead, Taylor's presidency is poised to influence major industry conversations. One area of focus will likely be sustainability in production, as environmental concerns become increasingly prominent. The PGA has already initiated green production guidelines, and Taylor, who has incorporated eco-friendly practices in her own projects, is expected to champion these efforts. Additionally, with the rise of international co-productions, she may push for stronger global partnerships, helping American producers tap into markets in Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Taylor's personal story adds a layer of inspiration to her leadership. Having started her career in the UK film industry before crossing the Atlantic, she embodies the global nature of modern filmmaking. She has spoken openly about the challenges she faced as a female producer, including breaking through glass ceilings and balancing family life with demanding production schedules. Her success serves as a beacon for aspiring producers, particularly women and those from non-traditional backgrounds.
As the entertainment world continues to transform, the Producers Guild under Taylor's guidance is well-positioned to adapt and thrive. Her election not only celebrates her individual accomplishments but also signals a forward-looking approach for the organization. With her at the helm, the PGA is set to reinforce its role as a vital advocate for producers, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and rewarded in an industry that relies on their creativity and resilience.
This leadership change comes amid broader shifts in Hollywood, where traditional studio models are giving way to hybrid distribution strategies. Producers like Taylor are at the forefront of this evolution, bridging the gap between artistic integrity and commercial viability. Her tenure promises to be one of action and advocacy, building on the guild's legacy while charting a course for the future.
In conclusion, Lynette Howell Taylor's election as president of the Producers Guild of America is more than a ceremonial passing of the torch; it's a statement of intent for an industry in flux. With her proven track record, passion for storytelling, and commitment to equity, Taylor is uniquely equipped to lead the PGA into its next chapter. As producers continue to shape the narratives that captivate audiences worldwide, her influence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the art and business of entertainment. (Word count: 1,248)
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