In the world of entertainment, few partnerships have been as enduring as that of Don Buchwald and Howard Stern. The recent passing of Don Buchwald at 88 marks the end of an era in talent representation and radio broadcasting. This story is not just about the death of a legendary agent; it’s about the incredible impact one man can have on an entire industry. Buchwald’s keen eye for talent and his unwavering support for his clients, particularly Howard Stern, made him a significant figure in the landscape of radio and entertainment. As we delve into the remarkable career of Don Buchwald, readers will gain insight into his life and impact.
The Rise of a Superagent
Don Buchwald’s journey to becoming a “Superagent” began in 1977 when he founded Don Buchwald & Associates. His agency, later rebranded simply as Buchwald, grew to become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Buchwald’s approach to talent representation was unique, focusing on building strong, lasting relationships with both clients and industry professionals.
Don Buchwald, Howard Stern's 'superagent' and founder of namesake agency, dies at 88 https://t.co/gytBqLM4rH
— Los Angeles Times (@latimes) August 1, 2024
The Howard Stern Connection
Buchwald’s most famous client relationship was with Howard Stern. Their partnership began in the early days of Stern’s career and continued for decades, weathering the ups and downs of the entertainment industry.
In 2018, Stern spoke about the first time he met Buchwald. He said, “We sat down in his office and we talked for an hour. He turned to me and said, ‘You know, your career could be as big as Johnny Carson’s.’ I thought this guy might be a little bit nuts. But he believed in me from the very beginning, more than I believed in myself.”
This unwavering belief in Stern’s potential would prove to be prescient. Buchwald negotiated groundbreaking deals for Stern, including a $500 million contract with Sirius XM, which transformed both Stern’s career and the satellite radio industry.
A Legacy of Loyalty and Success
Buchwald’s impact extended far beyond his work with Stern. He represented a diverse roster of talent, including Kathleen Turner, Ralph Macchio, and Billy Ray Cyrus. His approach to business was characterized by positivity and loyalty, traits that set him apart in a notoriously cutthroat industry.
“Don fostered this positivity within the agency walls and his incredible loyalty rang true with employees, clients and business colleagues. There will never be another Don Buchwald, and our team will proudly uphold his legacy and his generous approach to business,” his daughter, Julia Buchwald, said.
This philosophy of fostering positive relationships even in tough negotiations became a hallmark of Buchwald’s career and a key factor in his success.
Buchwald is reported to have died at home of natural causes on July 22.
Sources
- Don Buchwald, Howard Stern’s ‘superagent’ and founder of namesake agency, dies at 88
- Don Buchwald, Howard Stern’s Longtime Agent and Founder of Buchwald Talent Agency, Dies at 88
- Don Buchwald, Longtime Hollywood Talent Agent, Dies at 88
- Don Buchwald Dies: Founder Of Don Buchwald & Associates And Howard Stern’s Longtime Agent Was 88
- Celebrity Agent To The Stars Don Buchwald Dead At 88
- Howard Stern’s ‘superagent’ Don Buchwald dies at 88 at home surrounded by loved ones
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The Bubba Army pays tribute to Don Buchwald:
RIP Don Buchwald https://t.co/bKahmY3I1Q pic.twitter.com/7GLxen7k6B
— Bubba The Love Sponge®️ (@TheBubbaArmy) July 23, 2024
Tim Sabean expresses sadness over loss of Buchwald:
I lost my closest pal today…you left an iconic legacy…I miss you with all my heart and soul. RIP my dear friend. Tim @buchwaldtalent pic.twitter.com/E7sOVetZHt
— TimSabean (@TimSabean) July 22, 2024