Patrick Harrison: Last News

Jaden Thompson Patrick Harrison, the top New York executive at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has partnered with Clare Anne Darragh and Lina Catalfamo Plath of Frank PR to start a new strategic awards division. This division will hone in on campaigns and events surrounding gold trophy season. “I am excited to join the Frank PR family in partnership with Clare Anne and Lina, two industry professionals I have respected, admired, and worked alongside throughout my career,” Harrison said.

EXCLUSIVE: Patrick Harrison, a longtime and well-known executive for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in New York, is moving on to a newly created position with Frank PR. He is joining principals Clare Anne Darragh and Lina Catalfamo Plath to develop a “strategic awards division,” with plans to further engage the company in the ever-growing and lucrative business of campaigns and events targeted to the industry’s award seasons.

Clayton Davis Senior Awards Editor The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences sent a letter to its members on Friday evening, addressing the recent departure of multiple Black executives from its organization over the past few weeks. Signed by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang, the statement, obtained by Variety, includes an affirmation of the organization’s commitment to its diversity and inclusion programs, as well as efforts to “expanding” their promotion. “We have heard from some of you who have asked about our Academy DEAI programs as these efforts across our film community and other industries have been called into question,” the letter begins. “A number of Black executives in Hollywood have exited their roles, including within the Academy, and we recognize the concern this creates. Given all of this, we want to reiterate, in the strongest possible terms, the Academy’s commitment to not only continuing, but expanding our efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within our organization and the film industry at large.”

Clayton Davis Senior Awards Editor Shawn Finnie, executive vice president, member relations, global outreach and awards for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, is leaving the organization after nearly a decade, Variety has learned exclusively. His final day was Thursday, July 13. Finnie was a beloved figure within the Academy, rising through the ranks and receiving multiple promotions. His departure comes after his most recent promotion to his role in June 2021 by former COO Christine Simmons. He led engagement and outreach initiatives for the organization’s global membership of more than 10,000 artists, filmmakers and executives. In addition, he led a team of more than 20 team members.

Vanity Fair‘s new “Dynasty” issue takes a look inside the life of Prince Charles’s wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

Shawhead’s Gregor Hiddleston made another appearance in the U20 Six Nations on Friday night.