Coverage desk

Business

Concise briefs built from multiple trusted reports, with every original source clearly attributed.

Creative Executive Pierce Thiot, 40, Dies of Pulmonary Embolism in Utah

Pierce Thiot, the head of creative for brand and entertainment at Maximum Effort, died at age 40 from a pulmonary embolism at his home in Orem, Utah. The company, co‑founded by Ryan Reynolds and George Dewey, highlighted his work on high‑profile campaigns for brands such as Apple, Nike, DoorDash and Mint Mobile, as well as his contributions to the launch of Apple TV+ and multiple Emmy‑nominated projects. Colleagues remembered him for his creativity, humor and generosity, noting his long‑standing partnership with Kathleen Swanson and his family, including his wife Stacy and children Adelaide and Jackson.

Updated 6 days ago2 sources

Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter

BusinessSee all

Anonymous Content appoints veteran executive Steve Shikiya as chief operating officer

Anonymous Content announced that veteran media and entertainment executive Steve Shikiya has been hired as the company’s chief operating officer. In the new role Shikiya will report directly to President and CEO Darren Walker and will manage day‑to‑day business functions such as finance, corporate development, business affairs and human resources. The appointment follows recent hires for communications, marketing and legal leadership and is positioned to support the firm’s continued growth.

Updated 8 days ago2 sources

Deadline, Variety

BusinessSee all

Annapurna, Megan Ellison’s indie media company, cuts roughly 30 jobs amid shifting market conditions

Annapurna Pictures confirmed that it is reducing its staff by about 30 employees, which represents a little over 15 percent of its workforce. The cuts were announced on Wednesday and were described by a company spokesperson as a response to current business conditions and a need to realign the company for a changing entertainment landscape. Founder and CEO Megan Ellison remains in charge as the company continues its post‑dormancy rebuilding efforts.

Updated 9 days ago2 sources

The Hollywood Reporter, Variety