BUSINESS

Los Angeles group sues Penske over Golden Globes deal

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Former members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association have filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles against Penske Media Corporation and related entities, alleging fraud in Penske’s 2023 acquisition and reorganization of the Golden Globe Awards. The suit claims investor Todd Boehly and his firm Eldridge concealed Penske’s role from the HFPA board, infiltrated its leadership to secure approval, and later reneged on promised lifetime tickets, voting rights, and other benefits by imposing impractical conditions. Plaintiffs further allege Penske used its media outlets to drive a boycott after a 2021 diversity scandal. Current Golden Globes owners dismissed the lawsuit as irrational.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2021 Los Angeles Times exposes HFPA membership
2021 Public backlash follows diversity revelations
2022 NBC declines to air Golden Globes
2022 Lawsuit claims Penske fueled industry boycott
2023 Penske-linked entities acquire Golden Globes
2023 HFPA reorganized and effectively disbanded
2024 Golden Globes finds new home CBS
Recently Former HFPA members file fraud lawsuit

Why This Matters to You

This lawsuit could affect the future of the Golden Globes. If Penske loses, it might change how the awards are run. It could also impact how media companies handle acquisitions. Keep an eye on this case if you're a fan of the Globes or work in media.

The Bottom Line

Former HFPA members allege Penske played dirty to acquire the Golden Globes. They claim Penske promised benefits, then imposed impossible conditions. Penske denies it. This lawsuit could reshape the awards and media acquisitions. Worth forwarding if you know someone in the industry.