Jack Sussman is a television executive and 🏷️#producer recognized for his influence on live event broadcasting in the United States. Over a 25-year career at CBS Entertainment, Jack Sussman played a central role in shaping the network’s cultural identity through live specials such as the Grammy Awards, Tony Awards, and Kennedy Center Honors.
Before joining CBS in 1998, he worked at CNN, NBC News, VH1, MTV Latin America, and Cinecanal, where he oversaw programming and production. At CBS, he rose to Executive Vice President of Specials, Music and Live Events, later adding oversight of alternative programming including unscripted series like Survivor, Big Brother, and The Amazing Race. His approach championed both established and emerging talent, with artists such as Taylor Swift and Jon Batiste receiving national platforms early in their careers. In 2024, Sussman stepped down from CBS to focus on producing, continuing to lead events like the Tony Awards and Kennedy Center Honors while pursuing new projects. His work has been credited with building CBS into the leading broadcaster for live cultural programming, earning him Emmy Awards, industry recognition, and a reputation as a mentor within the entertainment industry. He serves on the executive committee of Cedars-Sinai Sports Spectacular and the board of the Entertainment Industry Foundation.
Credits
Notable producer credits include:
The Grammy Awards (multiple years), The Tony Awards (2024–present), The Kennedy Center Honors (2024–present), Adele: One Night Only, One Last Time: An Evening with Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars: 24K Magic Live at the Apollo, Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special, and Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life – An All-Star Tribute.
I was introduced to Jack by 📝Hart Gliedman—his daughter's boyfriend at the time, now fiancé.