Large Stay Nation has named Richard Grenell, an shut confidant and ally of President Donald Trump lately within the headlines for slamming Les Misérables actors and Lin Manuel Miranda, to its board of administrators.
The ticketing and live performance promotion juggernaut and venue proprietor unveiled its newest director within the midst of landmark antitrust lawsuit in opposition to it by former President Joe Biden’s Division of Justice a yr in the past. The DOJ and 30 state and district attorneys common filed the civil swimsuit in opposition to Stay Nation Leisure and its wholly-owned subsidiary Ticketmaster for “monopolization and different illegal conduct that thwarts competitors in markets throughout the dwell leisure trade.” The lawsuit features a request for “structural reduction,” which means forcing the corporate to interrupt up.
A DOJ spokesperson wasn’t instantly out there for remark.
Stay Nation stated Grenell “brings many years of expertise in diplomacy and negotiations, having served as U.S. Ambassador to Germany, Appearing Director of Nationwide Intelligence, Presidential Envoy for Kosovo-Serbia Negotiations and Presidential Envoy for Particular Missions. Mr. Grenell additionally at present serves because the President of the John F. Kennedy Heart for the Performing Arts, the place he oversees operations and programming at one of many nation’s premier cultural establishments.
“His profession expertise will assist assist Stay Nation’s mission to carry extra dwell music to the world, whereas additionally advocating for trade reforms that shield each followers and artistss,” Stay Nation’s announcement learn.
“We’re happy to welcome Ric to our Board,” stated Randall Mays, Chairman of the Board of Stay Nation Leisure. “His background will carry a precious perspective as Stay Nation continues to contribute to a rising dwell music trade across the globe.”
Trump named Grenell interim president of the Kennedy Heart, the place he additionally put in himself as chairman and fired half of the board members, shortly after taking workplace. Grenell has blasted entertainers who received’t carry out on the venerable Washington, D.C. venue attributable to Trump’s newfound involvement with the venerable arts establishment.
“The facility of dwell performances to carry individuals collectively whereas boosting native economies is transformative,” stated Grenell. “I’m proud to affix the board and assist Stay Nation’s efforts to develop this constructive influence of live shows around the globe.”
Ted Johnson contributed to this report
