Michael R. Morris led a panel discussion on “Entertainment Industry Hot Topics” at the USC Gould School of Law 2025 Tax Institute. The three-day conference for tax professionals was held Jan. 27-29.
The discussion led by Mr. Morris looked at current issues in entertainment taxation as well as the latest tax, legal and accounting developments affecting studios, independent producers, and talent in the entertainment industry.
Joining him were Paul Gordon Hoffman, Managing Director of Withersworldwide, and Shane P. Nix, a Partner in the Tax Department and Entertainment Transactions Practice of Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP.
Michael has blended his tax law expertise with his passion for music and entertainment, resulting in a practice that is unique.
As a former trial lawyer for the IRS and a Certified Specialist in Taxation Law, Michael provides insightful resolutions to his clients’ complicated tax, estate, and business transaction issues. In the entertainment industry, Michael has developed a strong reputation for providing valuable and effective business solutions in areas such as copyright and contractual matters.
Although Michael’s core competency is within the tax arena and entertainment, he has developed significant expertise covering a wide range of businesses. His diverse client base includes major studio executives, recording artists (including Grammy winners), production companies, film and TV composers, talent agencies, payroll companies, skin healthcare companies, postproduction houses, software companies, and an award-winning winery.