The Untold Story of the Woman Behind a Billion-Dollar Franchise
In a poignant tribute to a decades-long partnership, CSI creator Anthony Zuiker reflects on the profound impact of his manager and friend, Margaret Riley, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 58 after battling ovarian cancer.
Beginnings
The story began in 1998 when Zuiker, then a tram driver in Las Vegas with aspirations of becoming a screenwriter, found an ally in producer Jim Garavente. Garavente introduced Riley, who had recently been promoted to manager at Addis Wechsler, to Zuiker’s script, “The Runner.” Recognizing the talent within, Riley signed Zuiker on his 30th birthday, marking the start of a remarkable journey.
Partnership
Riley’s unwavering support took Zuiker from Hollywood agencies to CAA, where he found representation. During challenging times, Riley’s kindness extended beyond business; she brought food to Zuiker as he struggled to make ends meet while living in Hollywood Towers. The turning point came in 1999 when ABC and subsequently CBS acquired CSI, catapulting Zuiker to stardom and initiating a billion-dollar franchise.
Success
Following the breakout success of CSI, Riley founded Margaret Riley Management in 2002, with Zuiker as one of its key clients. The company later merged with Brillstein Entertainment Partners. Throughout her esteemed career, Riley represented a diverse array of talents, including Bridget Moynahan, Mark Ruffalo, directors Susanna Fogel and RJ Cutler, and screenwriters Margaret Nagle, Charles Randolph, and Ann Cherkis.
Management
Riley’s influence extended beyond talent representation. She served as an executive producer on various projects, including the documentary “Billie Eilish: The World is a Little Blurry” and Ryan Murphy’s “Ratched” (2020). Riley’s work on “Bombshell” (2019), addressing workplace harassment, showcased her commitment to telling impactful stories.
A Life Well Lived
Born on December 9, 1965, Riley’s career in Hollywood began in production on commercials, features, and documentaries. Her journey included roles at Virtual World Entertainment and Addis Wechsler and Associates. Riley, a graduate of the American Film Institute, touched the lives of many through her extensive work and advocacy.
Impact
Colleagues and clients remember Riley as elegant, well-spoken, and a lover of fun. Her legacy is reflected in the success stories of those she represented, and her profound impact on the industry is evident in the projects she championed. Riley’s dedication to advocacy extended to her role on the board of Proclaim Justice, a nonprofit supporting wrongfully convicted individuals.
Survived by her children, daughter Dylan and son Will, and her mother, Doris, Margaret Riley’s zest for life, spiritual richness, love for travel, and commitment to justice leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her. As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a luminary, Riley’s influence will continue to resonate through the voices she helped elevate and the stories she helped bring to life.
In a poignant tribute to a decades-long partnership, CSI creator Anthony Zuiker reflects on the profound impact of his manager and friend, Margaret Riley, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 58 after battling ovarian cancer. Beginnings The story began in 1998 when Zuiker, then a tram driver in Las Vegas with aspirations…
In a poignant tribute to a decades-long partnership, CSI creator Anthony Zuiker reflects on the profound impact of his manager and friend, Margaret Riley, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 58 after battling ovarian cancer. Beginnings The story began in 1998 when Zuiker, then a tram driver in Las Vegas with aspirations…
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