The entertainment industry is witnessing a significant shift as Dattner Dispoto & Associates (DDA) and Worldwide Production Agency (WPA) announce their merger. This strategic move aims to create a formidable independent agency dedicated to below-the-line talent, offering a global platform for cinematographers, production designers, and producers.
The merger, driven by the desire to maintain independence and expand opportunities, brings together two respected firms with a rich history in the industry. Steve Jacob, co-CEO of WPA, emphasizes the importance of this union: “This is a way we can maintain independence without being bolted on to someplace.”
Combining Strengths for a Global Reach
DDA, established in 1987 by Fay Dattner in her New York City apartment, has grown into a respected agency with a strong presence in the Bradbury Building in Los Angeles. The agency, now known as DDA Talent, is led by president Bill Dispoto and vice president Juanita Tiangco. With 9 employees, DDA has built a reputation for representing notable talent, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt and The Social Network lenser Jeff Cronenweth.
Worldwide Production Agency, founded in 2010 by Steve Jacob and co-CEO Frank Balkin, has a significant presence in both Los Angeles and the U.K. With 25 employees, WPA represents a diverse range of talent, such as Creed cinematographer Maryse Alberti and X-Men producer Ralph Winter. The agency’s international footprint is a key aspect of the merger, providing clients with access to global opportunities in an increasingly international production landscape.
The Merger Process and Future Plans
The merger process began in earnest during a meeting at the Evolution Mallorca international film festival last fall. The principals recognized the need to scale up to better serve their clients in an evolving industry. “Bringing our teams together allows us to offer our clients greater opportunities, deeper resources, and a truly global platform while preserving the individualized approach that defines both agencies,” says Juanita Tiangco.
In August, the bulk of the WPA team will move to the Bradbury Building, marking the beginning of a new era for the combined agency. A rebranding and renaming process is also underway, with the new identity set to be revealed in the coming months. This merger creates one of the largest independent agencies dedicated to below-the-line talent, positioning the firm to better serve clients across film, television, streaming, advertising, and emerging media.
Expanding Opportunities in a Changing Industry
The entertainment industry is evolving rapidly, with productions increasingly moving offshore in pursuit of tax incentives. This merger enables the combined agency to offer more agent resources and establish firm footholds in major production hubs like London and Los Angeles. Frank Balkin, co-CEO of WPA, highlights the significance of this move: “The entertainment industry is evolving and the demand for world-class talent has never been greater.”
Steve Jacob’s journey in the industry began at Gersh, where he started his first shingle, Gravity Talent Agency, in 2000. In 2010, he merged his firm with Richard Caleel’s The Caleel Agency to form Worldwide Production Agency. Caleel departed in 2026 to launch production services firm In Plain Sight, paving the way for the current merger with DDA.
As the industry continues to change, this merger represents a proactive step towards securing the future of below-the-line talent representation. By combining their strengths, DDA and WPA aim to create a powerhouse agency that champions the artists who bring stories to life.
