Bart Story, MarketCast & SAG-AFTRA Research Exec, Dies at 63

Bart Story, a veteran of the entertainment industry with a career spanning market research and union leadership, died Tuesday in Los Angeles. He was 63 years old and succumbed to complications related to metastatic urothelial carcinoma, according to a family representative.

A Career Shaping Entertainment

Story’s career began with work in movie theaters, fueling a lifelong passion for the industry. He later became instrumental in modernizing the video distribution market while at the Video Software Dealers Association. He then served as director of research at SAG-AFTRA before spending more than two decades at MarketCast.

Did You Know? Bart Story’s early work experience included employment in movie theaters, which initially sparked his interest in pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

At MarketCast, Story held the position of senior director of market research, advising studios, networks, and streamers on audience engagement, creative testing, and positioning strategies. Jeremy Radisich, President of Entertainment at MarketCast, stated that Story “helped hundreds of movies achieve success” through his work.

Impact and Legacy

Radisich further described Story’s approach as “thoughtful and gentle,” emphasizing his collaborative spirit and the positive impact he had on colleagues and clients. Story’s work at MarketCast involved connecting with thousands of individuals, including focus group participants and team members.

Expert Insight: The role of market research in the entertainment industry is critical for mitigating risk and maximizing audience appeal. Executives like Bart Story bridge the gap between creative vision and consumer preferences, a function that is likely to remain essential as the media landscape continues to evolve.

Story held degrees from Cal Poly Pomona and USC’s Annenberg School. He resided in Denver, Colorado, and is survived by his husband, Patrick Jager, and their son, Brandt. A private celebration of his life is planned.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Bart Story’s role at MarketCast?

Bart Story served as the senior director of market research at MarketCast for over two decades, guiding the marketing strategies of studios, networks, and streamers.

Prior to MarketCast, where did Story work?

Before joining MarketCast, Story was the director of research at SAG-AFTRA and also worked at the Video Software Dealers Association.

What is being planned to honor Story’s memory?

A private celebration will be held in the near future to honor Bart Story’s life and legacy, according to a family representative.

As the entertainment industry continues to navigate changing consumer habits and emerging technologies, how might the insights of researchers like Bart Story be applied to future projects?

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