JB Smoove to Keynote Variety's November Business Managers Breakfast

JB Smoove will deliver the keynote address at the annual Business Managers Breakfast in Los Angeles on November 12. The event, hosted by Variety and presented by City National Bank, gathers professionals featured in the publication's Business Managers Elite issue. Smoove, an Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, producer, and writer, will lead a conversation on his vision for modern storytelling across television, film, and branded entertainment.

Smoove is known for his roles on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "Saturday Night Live." Beyond his on-screen career, he founded Alternate Side Productions and First Darrin. The latter is a creative agency that partners with brands to develop comedic campaigns, shorts, and other advertising content.

Media Cartographer Evan Shapiro will also speak at the breakfast. He will discuss the impact of the creator economy on the entertainment industry alongside Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety. Shapiro holds Webby, Emmy, and Peabody Awards for his work as a creator and producer.

Arnie Herrmann will receive the Variety Business Managers Elite Award at the event. The award recognizes his career and contributions to the entertainment community. Herrmann currently supports philanthropic organizations including the Jenna’s Rainbow Foundation and the Irving Penn Foundation. He has also served for many years on the board of MusiCares.

Actress Candice Bergen will present the award to Herrmann. JaHan Wang, head of Entertainment & Sports Banking at City National Bank, commented on the partnership. "City National Bank has spent decades working alongside the entertainment industry’s top business managers, and we’ve seen firsthand the difference a great advisor can make," Wang said.

Dea Lawrence, co-president and publisher of Variety, emphasized the role of managers in the industry. "Business managers are a vital part of the entertainment ecosystem and we are very pleased to again partner with City National Bank for this event," Lawrence said. She also congratulated Herrmann on receiving the Business Manager of the Year award.

City National Bank serves as the presenting partner for the 2026 breakfast. Supporting partners for the event include Citrin Cooperman, Content Partners, Venable LLP, and Willkie.