Accomplished at handling rights sales, mergers, and joint ventures, the team at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is sought out by clients in the entertainment sector. Kevin Masuda and Benyamin Ross jointly lead the team as co-chairs of the entertainment practice at the firm, both based in Los Angeles. Masuda brings a focus to the sports aspects of the practice, advising investment funds alongside leagues and teams in a variety of matters, including licensing and sponsorship. Ross advises a variety of companies, such as PE firms and high-net-worth individuals in M&A deals, investments, and joint ventures. California-based Steve Tsoneff adds depth to the team, with a special focus on licensing, distribution and experience in a range of financing deals. Sarah Graham, also California-based, is adept at handling various transactions within the industry and is experienced in restructuring.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Key clients
- Global Music Rights
- The SpringHill Company, LLC
- Lobos 1707 LLC
- Hillspire, LLC
- Paramount Pictures
- Range Media Partners
- Serena Williams
- Stem Disintermedia
- RedBird Capital Partners
- HB International, LLC
- Huda Beauty
- Maximum Effort Advisory, LLC
Work highlights
Advised Global Music Rights and The Azoff Company on the sale of a majority stake in Global Music Rights to Hellman & Friedman.
Advised The SpringHill Company, LLC on its merger with Fulwell 73.
Advised Hillspire on a $150m investment in the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Steve Tsoneff
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Sarah Graham
Practice head
Kevin Masuda; Benyamin Ross
Other key lawyers
Steve Tsoneff; Sarah Graham