Discover the Inspiring Origins of Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang

In many respects, the pioneering attorneys behind the firm known today as Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang mirrored the ambition of a generation of young attorneys when they established the firm in 1989. Their vision was clear: to disrupt the traditional legal landscape and create a space that championed diversity and innovation in the legal field, particularly within the realm of entertainment law. These foundational values not only guided their practices but also paved the way for a more inclusive representation in the legal and entertainment sectors.

Embracing Entrepreneurship: The Vision Behind a Boutique Law Firm

“There’s always an inclination to want to start your own business and be the captains of your ship, the makers of your own future,” explains Nina Shaw, one of the founding partners, alongside founder emeritus Ernie Del and current partner Jean Tanaka. “We aimed to be part of the group of boutique firms that were already leading the way in the field of talent representation, even back then.” The determination to forge their own path and influence the industry became the driving force behind their decisions and actions.

Championing Diversity in Legal Representation and the Entertainment Industry

However, there was a deeper motivation at play. Shaw often found herself as the only woman or person of color in many professional settings, and her experiences highlighted the critical need for representation. Thus, it became embedded in the firm’s DNA to advocate for the underrepresented, both within its staff and clientele, aiming to reshape the broader legal and entertainment communities to better reflect societal diversity. This commitment has had a profound impact, fostering a culture of inclusivity that resonates throughout the firm.

Del Shaw’s Commitment to Diversity: A Model for the Legal Industry

Today, Del Shaw boasts a remarkable staff composition, with 62.5% women and 57.5% people of color. The firm has a longstanding track record of brokering transformative deals for a diverse array of clients, including celebrated figures such as Cedric the Entertainer, Ayo Edebiri, Paul Reiser, Lena Waithe, and Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o. Additionally, they represent industry leaders like Channing Dungey, chair and CEO of Warner Bros. TV Group, and John Legend, a renowned musician and EGOT member, alongside his wife Chrissy Teigen.

A Unique Perspective on Diversity at Del Shaw

Partner Gordon Bobb reflects on his experience joining Del Shaw as an associate in 2000, noting the stark contrast to his previous workplaces, which, while not overtly hostile, lacked a meaningful commitment to diversity. “What was realized at the inception of the firm in 1989—and what Hollywood has only come to understand in the past four years—is that when you embrace a wider range of perspectives, you can genuinely serve people better,” Bobb emphasizes. This insight underscores the firm’s philosophy of leveraging diverse viewpoints to enhance client service.

Shaw’s Artistic Journey: From Harlem to Legal Pioneer

Shaw’s unique perspective was shaped during her upbringing in Harlem, where she developed a deep passion for the arts. She immersed herself in a wide range of cultural experiences, from movies and theater to museums and ballet, often attending free events around New York City, thanks to her mother’s dedication to exposing her to the arts. “If it was free and happening in New York, my mom was going to make sure we saw it,” she recalls. This rich artistic upbringing instilled in her a profound appreciation for creativity and representation within the entertainment industry.

Legal Aspirations: Nina Shaw’s Journey to Becoming a Leading Attorney

At the same time, Shaw’s ambition for a legal career was evident, as shown by the “Future Lawyer” caption beneath her senior high school yearbook photo. After earning her JD from Columbia Law School in 1979, she relocated to Los Angeles to work at the prestigious international firm O’Melveny & Myers. There, she represented clients like Norman Lear’s Tandem/T.A.T. Productions, known for pioneering diverse and progressive sitcoms, including “The Jeffersons.” In 1981, she transitioned to the boutique firm Dern, Mason, Swerdlow and Floum, becoming a partner five years later and securing her first major client, Robert Guillaume, star of the acclaimed sitcom “Benson,” after forging a personal connection with his then-wife.

The Founding of Del Shaw: A Vision for Transactional Entertainment Law

Del Shaw was founded when a group of attorneys decided to break away from their previous firm to establish a practice focused on transactional entertainment law. Initially named Del, Rubel, Shaw, Mason & Derin, the firm was dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the entertainment industry. This shift was not merely about business; it was a statement of intent to create a firm that understood the nuances and complexities of the entertainment world while empowering its clients.

Breaking Barriers: Ernie Del’s Unique Partnership with Nina Shaw

“Not many people understood Ernie Del’s desire to partner with me when he could have collaborated with a more conventional male attorney from one of the other boutique firms,” Shaw reflects. “However, he was genuinely surprised and taken aback that anyone would even suggest to him that this wasn’t the best path for him.” This partnership was groundbreaking, as it signified a shift towards embracing diversity and the importance of representation in legal practices within the entertainment sector.

Building a Diverse Roster of Talent: Shaw’s Early Successes

In the early days, Shaw attracted several high-profile clients, including James Earl Jones. However, many of her clients were emerging talents making significant artistic and commercial strides, such as Kasi Lemmons, F. Gary Gray, and former clients like Jamie Foxx and Ice Cube. “I would meet people early in their careers, which, quite frankly, was the only way I was securing these clients because I didn’t have connections,” Shaw admits. “I lacked agents and managers urging others to collaborate with me or a senior partner passing down clients to me. I had to actively network and cultivate these relationships on my own.”

Securing Major Talent: Shaw’s Impact on the Industry

One of the significant talents Shaw was able to sign was Laurence Fishburne, who joined her as his career was reaching new heights with his Oscar-nominated performance as Ike Turner in the biopic “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993). “I was initially drawn to her as a professional who came highly recommended by my manager [Helen Sugland],” Fishburne shares. “However, being an African American woman, it goes without saying that she understood the unique challenges I faced in the industry.” Shaw’s ability to relate to and advocate for her clients has been pivotal in her success.

Expanding Expertise: Moonves Joins Del Shaw

Del Shaw continued to grow its team with the addition of Jonathan Moonves, who transitioned from being an Atlanta-based litigator specializing in the airline industry when he joined the firm in 1991. “I had just secured a significant verdict representing an airline against its executives and was reflecting on whether this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” Moonves recalls. “I had known Ernie Del for years, and he had always encouraged me to join him. He appreciated my style and approach to problem-solving. Eventually, I decided to seriously explore the opportunity.”

Securing Major Clients: Moonves and Romano’s Partnership

One of Moonves’ earliest clients was Ray Romano, who signed with him shortly after landing his breakout sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond” in 1996. Moonves built a strong rapport with Romano, who values honesty and integrity in their professional relationship. “I want to be upfront and honest with everyone I deal with, and I expect the same from those who work with me. If I felt for a second that I was dealing with someone who didn’t uphold that standard, I would walk away,” Romano shares, emphasizing the importance of personal values in business relationships.

Integrity in Negotiation: Moonves’ Approach with Romano

Moonves’ integrity was put to the test when he renegotiated Romano’s contract with CBS, then led by his brother Leslie Moonves. “People thought I might harm myself by having him negotiate for me with a family member, but it was quite the opposite,” Romano explains. “I secured a then-record $1.8 million per episode deal for ‘Raymond’ in 2003, which demonstrates that trust and transparency can lead to remarkable outcomes.” This situation showcased the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism, even in complex family dynamics.

Delivering Results: The Core of Del Shaw’s Success

While the entertainment industry is often described as a “business of relationships,” the numerous golf rounds and poker nights would be meaningless without the firm’s proven ability to deliver exceptional results for its clients. The foundation of Del Shaw’s reputation rests on its commitment to excellence and the consistent success it achieves for its diverse clientele.

High Expectations: Cohan’s Early Experiences at Del Shaw

Ethan Cohan recalls an experience soon after he joined Del Shaw as an associate in 2014, following his role as VP of business affairs and production for chef Gordon Ramsay’s production company, One Potato Two Potato. “A partner asked me to complete a task, and I thought it was straightforward,” Cohan remembers. “However, when they returned my work covered in red ink with comments and changes, I suddenly realized the level of excellence expected here is incredibly high.” This moment underscored the firm’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

Leading Nonfiction Entertainment: Cohan’s Current Role

Today, Cohan serves as a partner leading Del Shaw’s unscripted and nonfiction entertainment practice, representing a roster of prominent clients such as Vox Media Studios, Mike Jackson’s and Legend’s Get Lifted, Teigen’s Huntley Productions, Vin Di Bona Productions, Ample Entertainment, The Media Pro Studio, Pocket Watch, and Soledad O’Brien Productions. The firm is also involved in the nonfiction projects of multi-hyphenate clients like Nick Cannon, indicating its broad reach and influence in the industry.

Expanding into Sports: Del Shaw’s Nonfiction Ventures

Recently, Del Shaw has been broadening its nonfiction footprint in the sports industry, collaborating with clients such as the NFL, Major League Soccer, PGA Tour-affiliated Pro Shop, and Box to Box Films. These partnerships provide valuable synergy with the firm’s athlete clients, both active and retired, including current Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, who may be interested in pursuing opportunities as hosts, commentators, or engaging in other media ventures.

Comprehensive Legal Support: Navigating the Nonfiction Landscape

The nonfiction team at Del Shaw manages legal matters from development to delivery and all aspects of daily production in between, including negotiating executive, talent, and distribution agreements, as well as assessing whether any elements of a reality show may violate the law. This thorough approach ensures that clients are protected and positioned for success in a complex landscape.

Accessibility and Support: A Client-Centric Philosophy

“We say it should be as if we’re sitting in the office next to you,” Cohan emphasizes, highlighting the firm’s commitment to being accessible around the clock. “So call us, text us, throw rocks at our windows. We’re available 24/7.” This philosophy fosters a strong partnership between the firm and its clients, ensuring that they receive the support they need whenever they need it.

Balancing Advocacy and Relationships: Del Shaw’s Negotiation Strategy

As much as the firm strives for excellence internally, its attorneys are careful to temper their aggressive instincts at the negotiating table. “We have to advocate as strongly as possible for our clients and secure the best possible deal,” states partner Abel Lezcano, a first-generation Cuban American raised in Iowa. “However, we must balance that with the overall trajectory of their career and everything that’s happening—the relationship with the studio, the project, the director, and, in the case of unscripted content, the subject matter.” This nuanced approach is essential for fostering long-term client relationships.

Legal Challenges: Navigating Litigation in the Entertainment Industry

This balanced approach proved invaluable when a lawsuit was filed against Quinta Brunson and ABC, alleging that her series “Abbott Elementary” was “a veritable knock-off” of a New York City schoolteacher’s script. Initially, Brunson felt overwhelmed by the situation. “I was like, ‘What the hell?!’” she recalls. “However, [Shaw and partner Lily Tillers] were able to reassure me, saying, ‘Don’t worry, we know this isn’t true. It’s going to be okay. We’ve got this.’” Their expertise and support provided a crucial sense of security during a turbulent time.