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In Memoriam: Michael Rudell

By Stan Soocher
March 01, 2021

In this issue, we sadly note the passing of Entertainment Law & Finance editorial board member and entertainment attorney Michael I. Rudell. More than five decades ago, Mike co-founded the New York City firm Franklin, Weinrib, Rudell & Vassallo, where he also served as a managing partner. Among his clients were best-selling authors Dan Brown and John Grisham. For more than four decades, Mike authored the monthly entertainment law column for the New York Law Journal, an ALM affiliate publication of Entertainment Law & Finance, co-authoring the column since 2005 with Franklin Weinrib partner Neil J. Rosini.

A statement issued by the firm noted: "Among many accomplishments, [Mike] was Chairman of the Entertainment Committee of the American Bar Association and recipient of its Edward Rubin Service Award. Mike lectured extensively, relished his time at the Chautauqua Institute and became a friend, mentor and guide to his clients, whom he cherished, including authors, actors, directors, non-profit foundations and arts organizations, and producers of television." The law firm's statement reminisced: "His wicked wit, empathic personality, frustrating punning and extraordinary brilliance made him a star of the entertainment bar as well as the workplace."

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