Jason Weinberg

Balancing acts

By KATHY A. MCDONALD

Preferring to remain on the sidelines in a truly supporting role, talent manager Jason Weinberg, a founding partner of Untitled Entertainment, is behind the careers of so many A-list people, he gets a shout-out at most award ceremonies (Jean Smart thanked him at the recent Emmys; Hilary Swank at the Oscars).

Though Untitled mostly reps adults, the company's roster also boasts such up-and-comers as AnnaSophia Robb, Keke Palmer, Blake Lively, Vanessa Hudgens, Spencer Grammer, Nolan Funk and Shiloh Fernandez, to name a few.

When it comes to guiding these performers, "Ultimately it's all about career longevity," Weinberg observes, "and also making sure they get to enjoy their childhood and have the right understanding of what they're doing."

He believes in balance for both himself and his clients: personhood before persona. "As managers, our job is to help our clients reach their goals, to be out there and be proactive and to protect them along the way," he explains.

One way that's possible is by being selective about his roster. Though agents, casting directors and acting coaches all refer young people to him, the majority of those he signs come recommended by current clients. "We help everyone remain focused and on track and make things happen, but we're not magicians," says Weinberg, whose management philosophy includes a team approach that fosters collaboration and camaraderie within the company.

Full of energy and devoted to his roster, Weinberg vows not to retire. "I love going to work," he confesses. But he also makes time for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, a charity he's come to champion because of client Marlo Thomas. "I have found my path: I want to stay on it and I feel very fulfilled in what I do," he says.

Recent breakthrough: Has clients on "Gossip Girl," "Greek," "The United States of Tara" and more. Keke Palmer stars in her own Nick

series this fall.

Role model: His first boss after college was Bobby Zarem, "a fantastic publicist and innovator" who imparted valuable lessons and beneficial teachings about talent and the biz.

What's next: His goals are for his clients' goals to be fulfilled.