Sam Gores

Sam Gores (born Samir Georgious, ; ; ; 1954) is the chairman of Paradigm Talent Agency in Beverly Hills, California and has been ranked among the top agents in Hollywood.

Early life and education Gores was born in Nazareth, Israel, in 1954 In 1968, when Gores was 14, his parents sold their home and possessions to purchase plane tickets to immigrate to the United States. Gores now serves on The American Academy of Dramatic Arts Board of Trustees.

Career After school, he worked without salary as an agent at The Gage Group, Inc., founded by Martin Gage, for almost two years while selling shoes on the side to support himself. Eventually, Gage brought Gores on staff. After several years at The Gage Group, Gores left to open his own agency, SGA Representation, As of 2014, Paradigm represents roughly 1,000 bands and artists, The following year, he sold Paradigm's live music representation business to Wasserman.

Controversy Amid the Coronavirus outbreak, Gores laid off a large portion of Paradigm's staff, drawing criticism from media and employees. Gores was accused of being misleading after firing more than double the amount of employees originally reported and cutting insurance for laid off employees, which Gores later extended until June 2020. One employee filed a lawsuit, alleging serious misconduct from Gores including payoffs, prostitution and criminal misconduct. Gores’ former executive assistant, referenced in the lawsuit, called the misconduct claims “blatant lies.” In April 2020, Gores filed a counter lawsuit, denying all allegations of impropriety and characterized the accusations as “self-aggrandizing and delusional.” The case is headed to arbitration.

Public advocacy Gores is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and the Recording Academy. Gores serves on the Board of Directors for the Geffen Playhouse, is an active participant in Conservation International, and is involved in Hand in Hand: Center for Jewish Arab Education in Israel.

Personal life Gores is father to three children and grandfather to five grandchildren.