This has been a blockbuster year for movie executive DeVon Franklin. First he released his first book, Produced by Faith: Enjoying Real Success Without Losing Your True Self, and lands an interview with the Queen of Media Oprah Winfrey to share his story. Then, he married his soul mate actress Meagan Good. Just when we thought we’d heard all there was to hear about Mr. Right, Columbia Pictures announced they’ve promoted him to senior vice president of production. This promotion comes on the heels of Franklin’s success with the hit films The Karate Kid, Jumping the Broom and the much anticipated film Sparkle, starring the late Whitney Houston and “American Idol” singer Jordin Sparks.
In his new position, he will work with all of the film divisions within the Sony Pictures umbrella; find, develop and supervise production of commercial material for the urban and faith-based audiences; and continue to work on Columbia Pictures franchise titles including The Karate Kid, Masters of the Universe and After Earth. Franklin’s next project is the film adaptation of Heaven is for Real, a New York Times Bestseller
“DeVon has been a huge contributor to our development and production team since joining the studio in 2005,” says Doug Belgrad, president of Columbia Pictures, in a statement to press. “We are proud to recognize his achievements with this promotion. DeVon is positioned to capitalize on his unique skill set, experience and relationships and will further define Sony as an industry leader in telling stories for a diverse audience. His focus will complement the outstanding work being done by the Screen Gems and Affirm Films divisions.”
In an earlier interview with rolling out, Franklin says he was led to the entertainment industry because of his love for the craft. “I grew up loving all facets of television and movies: cinematography, writing, lighting, producing … you name it. I especially loved “The Cosby Show.” My father passed away when I was young. Cinema and church were my escape mechanisms of choice. They really helped me to deal with the pain of the loss of my father. So, my growing interest in film and television led me to Handprint Entertainment, Benny Medina and James Lassiter’s then-company,” he offered.
Working as an intern for Lassiter and Will Smith at Overbrook Entertainment was the launching pad for Franklin’s career. When he joined Sony Pictures, he helped to oversee cinematic hits such as The Pursuit of Happyness, Hancock and Seven Pounds, all starring Smith and 21, starring Kevin Spacey.
Franklin earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in cinema-television from the University of Southern California. –yvette caslin
