Variety’s 10 Assistants to Watch Honored at Universal Studios

Being named one of Variety’s 10 Assistants to Watch is undoubtedly a prestigious honor that can have a significant impact on one’s career. The honorees were celebrated at a happy hour event held at One Universal on the Universal Studios Lot, where they were recognized for their hard work and dedication.

Christine Murrain, who serves as the coordinator for the office of Pearlena Igbokwe, chairman of TV studios for NBC Entertainment & Peacock scripted at NBCUniversal, shared an interesting anecdote about being recognized by strangers in public after being named to the list. She recounted a recent experience at a happy hour in Hollywood where other assistants nearby recognized her, highlighting the newfound recognition that comes with being honored by Variety.

For Murrain, being named one of Variety’s 10 Assistants to Watch has also had a profound impact on her family. Coming from a military background, her parents may not always understand the intricacies of her work, but this accolade served as a tangible achievement that they could appreciate and celebrate.

Pearlena Igbokwe, who values Murrain as more than just an assistant but as an invaluable colleague, expressed her admiration for Murrain’s organizational skills and dedication. The two stood side by side at the event, with Igbokwe acknowledging Murrain’s exceptional work ethic and contribution to their team.

The Class of 2025 for Variety’s 10 Assistants to Watch includes other talented individuals such as Nikki Bergman, Katie Byrne, Bela Levin, Blake Maley, Jessica Omokheyeke, Rose Poole, Kimia Simab, Arman Yaghmai, and Olivia Zweig. These individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions and potential in the industry.

The event, hosted by NBCUniversal and the Junior Hollywood Radio & Television Society, provided attendees with networking opportunities and featured a speech by Verve TV literary agent Roberto Larios, a member of Variety’s Assistants to Watch Class of 2018. Larios emphasized the importance of collaboration, self-forgiveness, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the competitive entertainment industry.

In his speech, Larios encouraged assistants to take risks, ask questions, and seize opportunities for growth and learning. He emphasized the significance of building strong relationships and cultivating good habits early in one’s career, as these will shape the trajectory of their professional journey for years to come.

Overall, being recognized as one of Variety’s 10 Assistants to Watch is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of these talented individuals. The event served as a platform to celebrate their accomplishments and inspire them to continue making a positive impact in the entertainment industry.