Yesterday, word spread around the Internet that John Macaluso resigned as CEO of Wizard World, Inc. Though the company filing said the departure had nothing to do with any disagreement with the company or any matter relating to the company’s operation, policies, or practices, today Wizard World announced John Maatta as the new CEO with a two-year contract.
“John brings Wizard World his solid entertainment industry experience and proven success in creating innovative content and distribution strategies. Wizard World is poised to expand its already significant footprint, and John will work with us to guide the company to its next phase of growth and beyond,” said Paul Kessler, Chairman of the Wizard World Board of Directors.
If Maatta’s name sound familiar, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the WB and CW Television Network for six years, and has had various executive roles at Warner Bros. and Lorimar-Telepictures Corporations for nearly 28 years.
“Wizard World is the preeminent producer of pop culture multi-city tours that aggregates huge audiences of fans across the country. Wizard World comic conventions are high-energy events bringing entertainment fans the most sought-after and interesting celebrities and content from movies, television and music to technology and sports. Wizard World is on the verge of becoming an especially powerful force in the entertainment industry as it rapidly expands into the area of content creation together with the launch of new distribution initiatives. Wizard World stands squarely at the intersection of the audience, celebrities and cutting edge content. Wizard events are the sweet spot where the entertainment industry interacts one-on-one with its audience,” said Maatta.
Mr. Maata’s appointment begins on May 3, 2016.
