Walter “Beau” Stapleton is a Manatt Entertainment partner based in the firm’s Los Angeles office. With extensive experience working at the intersection of the music, film, television and digital industries, Beau represents a wide range of clients, including artists, directors, producers, composers, executives, audio studios, production companies, cable networks, media companies and the like.
Prior to working at Manatt, Beau worked for eight years as a partner at an entertainment-focused law firm in Los Angeles, where he gained a breadth of knowledge in the music, film, television, digital, advertising and fashion industries. His practice, both then and now, centers on preparing, securing and negotiating business transactions that involve intellectual property, music rights, label deals, music-driven documentaries, talent representation, guild compliance, corporate formation, financing, employment law, copyright/trademark protection, license agreements, asset agreements, publishing agreements and distribution agreements, as well as general representation and consulting advice.
Prior to obtaining his law degree, Beau was an entrepreneur, an artist and a composer for over ten years. He toured globally as a musician and was represented by CAA, Red Light Management, Island Def Jam Records and Universal Music Publishing Group. With a deep understanding of the music, film, television and digital entertainment industries, and their convergence, Beau brings valuable perspectives and experience to his client engagements.