Shari Smiley Obituary – Death: Former CAA Agent And Manager Has Passed Away, Cause Of Death
Renowned literary agent and manager Shari Smiley has passed away at the age of 53 on Tuesday. The cause of her death is not yet known.
With an illustrious career spanning the realms of books and movies, Smiley recently revitalized her Smiley Management banner. Previously, she made significant contributions at 3 Arts and The Gotham Group, where she orchestrated bidding wars for dramatic rights to titles such as In A Dark, Dark Wood, The Barbizon, and An Anonymous Girl. Notably, she also served as a consultant for the executor of the J.R.R. Tolkien Estate.
Having spent 18 years at CAA, where she began as a receptionist in 1993, Smiley quickly distinguished herself by outselling some of the more seasoned agents. Upon leaving CAA, literary legend Mort Janklow suggested she name her new venture The Smiley Group, a name that would become synonymous with success in the industry. Throughout her career, she negotiated deals that resulted in hit films like Wild, Gone Girl, The Devil Wears Prada, Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children, Artemis Fowl series, Pride And Prejudice And Zombies, and the TV series Sharp Objects.
Shari Smiley was not only a force in the business but also a compassionate representative for bestselling authors such as Cheryl Strayed, Gillian Flynn, Jodi Picoult, Lauren Weisberger, and Mary Kubica. Known for her caring and considerate approach, Smiley left an indelible mark on the literary scene.
Details surrounding her passing will be shared as they become available.
