Jenne Casarotto, the co-founder of Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, the renowned London talent agency representing some of the industry’s most prominent behind-the-camera professionals, passed away on February 29. Her indelible impact and legacy will forever be remembered.
A Visionary Agent and Respected Industry Figure
With a career spanning over five decades, Jenne Casarotto, alongside her husband Giorgio, established Casarotto Ramsay & Associates in 1998, significantly shaping the agency landscape. Throughout her tenure, the company’s roster expanded to include celebrated writers, directors, creatives, literary properties, and industry leaders across film, theater, and television.
A Stellar Clientele
Over the years, Jenne Casarotto represented a prestigious list of clientele that included luminaries such as J.G. Ballard, John Crowley, the Dahl Estate, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Stephen Frears, Matteo Garrone, Christopher Hampton, David Hare, Nick Hornby, Bob Hoskins, Neil Gaiman, Terry Gilliam, Hilary Bevan Jones, Neil Jordan, David Leland, John Madden, Steve McQueen, Cynthia Payne, Neal Purvis, Martin Sherman, Shawn Slovo, Robert Wade, Tennessee Williams, and David Yates.
Cherished and Remembered
Frears, speaking of his 45-year professional relationship with Jenne, expressed profound sadness at her passing, saying, “Jenne has been my agent for 45 years. Her advice was always realistic, level-headed, clear, and encouraging. She’s been a wonderful supportive friend. This is a terrible shock.”
Renowned filmmaker Steve McQueen shared, “Jenne Casarotto was pivotal in my career and my life. She was my friend, and I loved her deeply. In the 16 years that I have known her, she was a tremendous support to me. In my last conversation with her, I confessed my love to her, and she to me. I will always have her in my heart with every footstep I take.”
John Madden also paid tribute, describing Jenne as a “unique” individual. He lauded her as a brilliant agent and an extraordinary human being, combining toughness with immense warmth. Her leadership, understanding, and friendship were matchless.
A Legacy of Excellence
Casarotto’s contributions to the film industry were recognized on numerous occasions. She received honors for her services to film from the British Independent Film Awards and the Women in Film & Television Awards. Additionally, she was appointed as a member of various esteemed organizations such as BAFTA, AMPAS, the European Film Academy, and served as a board member of Times Up U.K. In recognition of her achievements, she was recently named an honorary associate of the London Film School.
Continuing Her Legacy
Mel Kenyon, head of theatre at Casarotto Ramsay & Associates and a colleague of Jenne’s for over 30 years, spoke on behalf of the company board, stating, “Jenne’s legacy will continue to live on within the DNA of Casarotto. The leadership team, board, and brilliant agents she nurtured will continue to drive the agency, which will remain a beacon of excellence and fierce independence.”
Jenne Casarotto is survived by her husband, Giorgio, their two sons, Mark and Daniel, their three grandchildren, and her brother Martin Goodwin.
We bid farewell to an extraordinary talent agent, mentor, and friend. Jenne Casarotto’s impact on the industry will forever be treasured and celebrated.
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