Jay Kane Dies: TalentWorks NY CEO Was 65

Greg Evans
·1 min read

Jay Kane, the owner and CEO of talent agency TalentWorks NY died April 24 in Island Park, New York, following a brief illness. He was 65.

His death was announced by family and friends today after plans for a memorial service were finalized.

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Born Bradley Jay Kane on June 6, 1958, in Dayton, Ohio, Kane graduated from New York University, where he had majored in theater arts and studied acting with Stella Adler. Upon graduation, he turned his focus to behind-the-scenes efforts in the theater, working as a stage manager, director and writing.

His work as a receptionist and assistant at the Tantleff Office in the late 1980s led to his career as a talent agent. Working with Tantleff, he developed a longstanding relationship with agent Alan Willig. From there, he joined HWA Talent Agency, which merged with the Los Angeles firm TalentWorks.

He worked at TalentWorks for more than two decades, heading up the New York office and focusing on finding new talent and helping others flourish in their careers on stage, film and television.

Kane is survived by sister Leslie, brother Scott, niece Nomi, and nephews Ben and Shmulik.

A memorial celebration is planned for June 24 at MCC Theater in New York. Donations can be made to the Entertainment Community Fund, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids.

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