Hollywood Mourns Loss of Esteemed SAG-AFTRA Executive Bart Story
Veteran entertainment research executive Bart Story has died at 63 in Los Angeles from complications related to metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Story was known for his two-decade tenure at MarketCast, where he significantly shaped audience engagement and marketing strategies for major entertainment entities. His career also included pivotal roles at SAG-AFTRA and the Video Software Dealers Association, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Bart Story, a highly respected veteran entertainment research executive, passed away on Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 63, due to complications from metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Story leaves behind a significant legacy in the home video distribution industry and in leading research and development at prominent organizations such as SAG-AFTRA and MarketCast.
For over two decades, Story was the senior director of market research at the entertainment advising firm MarketCast. In this influential role, he provided invaluable guidance to the marketing departments of studios, networks, and streamers, focusing on audience engagement, creative testing, and strategic positioning. Jeremy Radisich, President of Entertainment at MarketCast, lauded Story's impact, stating that he “helped hundreds of movies achieve success, meaningfully connecting with thousands of clients, focus group respondents, and teammates along the way.” Radisich further described Story’s work as characterized by a “thoughtful and gentle approach” that made him an exceptional collaborator, partner, and an incredible person who touched everyone he encountered.
Before his extensive tenure at MarketCast, Story served as the director of research at SAG-AFTRA. His early career also included a crucial role at the Video Software Dealers Association, where he was instrumental in modernizing the video distribution market. Story's passion for the entertainment industry was sparked in his youth, having worked in movie theaters.
Academically, Story held a master’s degree from USC’s Annenberg School and a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly Pomona. He resided in Denver, Colorado, and is survived by his husband, Patrick Jager, and their son, Brandt. A private celebration of his life is planned for the near future.