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Deborah Barack, a longtime CBS business affairs executive who helped guide iNetwork through its television transition, died Saturday after battling cancer.
Barak was widely respected throughout the industry as a sharp negotiator and shrewd dealmaker. Among the many landmark deals she piloted for the network was the first licensing deal for “Survivor” in 2000. She also helped the company revive the “Star Trek” franchise in the early days of her content streaming boom through a groundbreaking global deal with Netflix. She worked for CBS for her 35 years and signed on as a West Coast broadcast consultant in 1985.
“Debbie has been a mentor and dear friend to many of us at CBS,” said David Stapf, president of CBS Studios. “She was someone everyone looked to for advice and guidance, both professionally and personally. You always left her office feeling a little smarter and emotionally stronger.” No one at CBS and throughout our business has been more universally loved, admired and respected.”
Stupf described her as “intimidating, smart as hell, and the rare individual who is incredibly empathetic that made her the unicorn. She was my partner, my best friend, and made me a better person.” He was the one who helped me.”
Another longtime CBS executive, Amy Reisenbach, who was recently promoted to president of entertainment, credits Barack with guiding her to top programming posts.
“Debbie made tough deals, but was always fair and considerate. She was also a mentor to dozens of people on CBS, including myself. Without unshakable confidence, I can honestly say I wouldn’t have done this job. increase.
Another longtime colleague recalled Barack as “clever, tough and fair to everyone.” Nina Tassler, longtime president of CBS Entertainment, has worked with Barack for over 20 years.
“Her business savvy and sophisticated negotiation skills were matched by her humanity and courtesy. Working together for over 20 years has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.” said Tassler. “Her sophisticated intellect and deep appreciation for artists set Debbie apart as world-class. Few had her myriad unique talents. Modest and reluctant to press.” She was loved by staff and creative executives not only within the company, but across the industry.A mentor and friend to so many during her illustrious career, Debbie was a cornerstone of the network’s success. Above all, her moral compass never wavered and she treated everyone with grace and dignity.”
After graduating from UCLA and Loyola Law School, he worked as an associate at O’Melveny & Myers before joining CBS. In 2010 she was promoted to executive VP of Operations for her CBS Network business. Five years later, she was promoted to President of Operations at her CBS Entertainment business. In 2020 she retired from CBS.
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