Variety CEO Michelle Sobrino-Stearns to Depart after 28 Years, Brand Poised for Next Chapter
LOS ANGELES – After a remarkable 28-year tenure, Michelle Sobrino-Stearns will step down as CEO of Variety, the leading entertainment news brand, the company announced today. her departure marks the end of an era defined by significant growth and innovation across Variety’s editorial, live events, television, and consumer businesses.
During Sobrino-Stearns’ leadership, Variety launched a successful live events division, produced Emmy-winning television content, established an authoritative content studio, and expanded its consumer offerings. The brand navigated challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and labor strikes, as well as local crises, emerging stronger and maintaining its position as the #1 entertainment news source.
“Over 13 years, we strengthened the leading editorial voice…proving Variety is thriving and will remain the #1 entertainment news brand,” Sobrino-Stearns wrote in a farewell message to staff. “Every one of you made this possible by coming together with a common purpose.”
The brand’s future will be guided by a trio of existing leaders: Dea Lawrence, Co-President and Publisher; Cynthia Littleton, Co-Editor-in-Chief; and Ramin Setoodeh, Co-President and Co-editor-in-Chief.
Sobrino-Stearns expressed gratitude to her editorial and business partners, and also key members of the Variety team, including Steve Gaydos and donna Pennestri, acknowledging their contributions to the brand’s success. She also shared a personal note, revealing she met her husband, Brian, at the Cannes Film Festival.
Sobrino-Stearns will embark on a new venture as a founding member of a fashion brand, beginning November 17. “Even as I take this next step, my heart will always belong to this remarkable company and to all of you,” she stated.