Skip Brittenham: 1941-2025

Today, we lost one of the greatest visionaries of the entertainment industry, Harry “Skip” Brittenham. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and avid outdoorsman, Skip was simply known as, “The Deal Maker.” He helped secure some of the most iconic mergers and acquisitions, including the launch of Pixar before it was sold to Disney and the splitting of DreamWorks.

Skip also helped pioneer the famous “backend deal” with clients such as Henry Winkler, Ted Danson and Tom Selleck.

Harry “Skip” Montague Brittenham II was born on September 6, 1941, in Port Huron, Michigan, Skip grew up with a deep curiosity for the world and a sharp intellect that would guide him to the heights of his profession. After graduating from UCLA School of Law (later named its “Alumnus of the Year” in 2000), Skip went on to co-found Ziffren Brittenham LLP, with Ken Ziffren, one of the most influential entertainment law firms in the country.

A true pioneer in his field, Skip reshaped the landscape of media and entertainment law over the course of his career. His brilliant mind and fearless approach to deal-making helped define industry standards across motion pictures, television, digital media, and corporate finance. Known as a trusted advisor and tenacious advocate, Skip represented generations of Hollywood’s top talent, major studios, animation giants, and innovative startups. His work, often conducted quietly behind the scenes, resulted in more than a billion dollars in transactions annually, and many of the most groundbreaking contracts in the business bore his fingerprints.

Yet, for all his professional acclaim, Skip remained grounded in the things that mattered most: family, friendship, and the simple joys of life.

An accomplished fly fisherman, Skip was more than a hobbyist—he was a world-record holder and a fierce competitor who represented the United States in three World Fly Fishing Championships. The serenity of nature, especially at his cherished estate in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, gave him peace and joy. Whether casting a line in a clear mountain stream or rallying on the tennis court, Skip embraced life with elegance, energy, and gratitude.

He also served on the boards of some of the most respected media and conservation organizations, including Pixar, Lowes Cineplex, DreamWorks Animation, and Conservation International. His philanthropic work, particularly with CI, helped raise over $1.5 billion for global environmental protection, earning him the Heroes of Conservation Award and the Spirit of Liberty Award for his unwavering support of democracy and civil rights.

But perhaps Skip’s most enduring quality was his heart. He opened his home and his life to family and friends, especially during the holidays, creating cherished traditions and memories for those lucky enough to know him. Whether at the dinner table or around a fireplace, Skip brought people together with humor, generosity, and a spirit of inclusiveness.

Harry “Skip” Brittenham lived a life defined not only by success, but by character, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in all things. He leaves behind not just a remarkable professional legacy, but a family and community that will forever carry his love and his light.

He is survived by his wife, actress and screenwriter Heather Thomas, his three daughters, Kristina Lynn, Shauna Leigh and India Rose, his brother Bud, four wonderful grandchildren, and two devoted sons-in-law.

Private Services will be held with family only. A celebration of his life will take place later in the year.