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22.01.2023 - 07:15 / deadline.com
Deborah Barak, one of the most prominent, influential and beloved TV business executives of the past three decades, died today, Jan. 21, after a long battle with cancer. She was 65.
Barak’s passing comes just two years after she left CBS at the end of 2020. During her 35 years at the company, rising to President of Business Operations, she created deal templates and introduced business models that have since become industry standards. A skilled negotiator who was highly respected by her peers, Barak — known to all as Debby — led the network’s and studio’s highest-profile negotiations. She brokered a slew of mega talent and show deals while always keeping her cool under pressure in the most chaotic situations.
Behind the steely exterior, the unassuming and press-shy Barak had a great sense of humor. She also was a wonderful mentor to scores of industry professionals who now carry on her legacy.
“Debby was a mentor and dear friend to so many of us at CBS,” said David Stapf, President of CBS Studios and a longtime colleague and friend of Barak’s. “She was the person everyone turned to for counsel and guidance, both professionally and personally. You always left her office feeling a little bit smarter and emotionally stronger. There was no one who was more universally loved, admired, and respected at CBS and across our business.
“Debby was also that rare person who was equal parts intimidating, smart as hell and incredibly empathetic, which made her a unicorn,” Stapf added. “She was my partner, my best friend and someone who made me a better person.”
During her tenure at CBS, Barak helped set a business framework for the network to establish an in-house production arm and oversaw dealmaking for the studio, from the first
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