Mark Itkin, former WME agent, is actively pursuing projects in film and theater, including a Zendaya biopic and a Broadway show.
Former WME partner Mark Itkin has confirmed that he is embarking on a series of exciting new projects in both film and theater. This announcement was made on September 16, 2026, by The Hollywood Reporter, detailing how Itkin is stepping away from his traditional role in reality television to explore creative endeavors outside of agency work.
Itkin built a distinguished career as a pivotal figure at William Morris and later at WME, where he was instrumental in introducing major reality television formats, notably Big Brother and The Biggest Loser. After over three decades in the industry, he retired, expressing a desire for personal innovation and fulfillment in his professional life. In the years following his retirement, Itkin remained active in the entertainment sector through consultation and various unscripted projects, but he is now ready to take on new challenges.
Itkin is currently developing multiple projects, notably a biopic about music icon Ronnie Spector, starring Zendaya and written by acclaimed director Barry Jenkins for A24. In addition to this film project, he is working on bringing the story of legendary songwriting duo Gamble and Huff to the stage, marking his first significant foray into Broadway.
Moreover, Itkin has secured a straight-to-series order for a reboot of Highway to Heaven for Fox, showcasing his continued influence in the television landscape while branching into scripted storytelling. These new ventures represent a significant shift from his previous focus on unscripted content and highlight his ongoing adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.
Beyond directing projects, Itkin is also venturing into acting. He has recently begun taking acting classes and is now in search of representation to pursue commercial auditions. This transition into acting underscores his desire to embrace new creative avenues at this stage of his career.
Itkin's reflections on the changing landscape of the entertainment industry reveal a sense of wisdom and adaptability. He acknowledges the evolution of agency dynamics and the challenges faced by traditional unscripted television. While he sees widespread pessimism within the industry, Itkin remains optimistic about navigating new opportunities, emphasizing the importance of pivoting and innovating to stay relevant.
What is notable about Itkin’s journey is not just his remarkable switch from agent to content creator and aspiring actor, but also his willingness to challenge conventional paths in his second act.
Mark Itkin’s announcement signifies a noteworthy shift in his career and highlights the potential for industry veterans to evolve beyond their original roles. With projects spanning film, theater, and acting, he exemplifies resilience and creativity in an unpredictable entertainment landscape. It remains to be seen how these endeavours will impact both his career and the broader industry, as he continues to explore and innovate.
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