Home / Arts and Entertainment / Hollywood Loses Veteran Manager Sandy Wernick
Hollywood Loses Veteran Manager Sandy Wernick
6 Mar
Summary
- Veteran talent manager Sanford Wernick died Thursday at 86.
- Wernick managed stars including Adam Sandler and Lorne Michaels.
- He began his career in the mailroom and rose to senior executive VP.
Sanford Wernick, a significant figure in Hollywood talent management, died on Thursday at the age of 86. He passed away in Rancho Mirage, California, following a brief illness.
Wernick was born in the Bronx, New York, on March 22, 1939. After serving in the Army from 1960 to 1962, he pursued higher education at NYU.
His extensive career in the entertainment industry commenced in the 1970s. He advanced from an agent role, starting in the mailroom at MCA and later becoming vice president of the TV division at ICM.
He eventually became a partner and senior executive VP at Brillstein Entertainment Partners. Wernick managed a notable roster of clients, including Adam Sandler, Lorne Michaels, and Rob Schneider.
Beyond management, Wernick contributed as an adjunct professor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. He also volunteered at Cedars Sinai and enjoyed golf, having previously been a yo-yo champion.
Wernick is survived by his wife Barbara, daughter Michele, son Barry, and grandson Sammy, among other family members. A private service is planned, with a public memorial celebration to follow in Los Angeles.
