TALENT AGENCY SNAPPED UP BY US RIVAL

ONE of Britain’s leading literary and talent agencies has been snapped up by an American rival.

Curtis Brown Group, which dates back to 1899, will team up with the Los Angeles-based United Talent Agency (UTA).

The UK company represents writers such as The Handmaid’s Tale author Margaret Atwood and actors including Lily James ( pictured).

It is also home to the literary estates of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy author John le Carre, Winnie-thePooh creator AA Milne and Nobel Prize-winning novelist and shortstory writer, John Steinbeck.

In a deal that has been hailed for expanding international opportunities for clients, Curtis Brown will still operate under its name while the management team, including chief executive Jonny Geller, will also stay in place.

The company, which employs more than 240 people, said it does not expect to lay off any staff following the deal.

Curtis Brown and UTA have worked together for many years and managed high-profile names such as actor Benedict Cumberbatch and English indie rock band Florence + The Machine.

Geller said: ‘This partnership will allow Curtis Brown to grow and to respond to the demands of an increasingly globalised world.’