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Starz #TakeTheLead & Veterans in Media and Entertainment Set Cohort For Mentorship Program Inaugural Class

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 18:39 GMT by Deadline.com
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Starz Launches New “Take the Lead” Mentorship Initiative to Empower Veterans in Hollywood

In a bold move that underscores the network’s commitment to social impact, streaming giant Starz announced today the launch of “Take the Lead,” a cohort‑based mentorship program designed specifically for U.S. military veterans who want to break into the film and television industry. The initiative, unveiled at a virtual launch event attended by industry insiders, veteran advocates, and former Starz executives, seeks to bridge the gap between military service and creative careers by pairing participants with seasoned professionals across the entertainment spectrum.

A Structured, Immersive Experience

At the heart of the program is a 12‑week intensive curriculum that blends classroom‑style learning with hands‑on projects and real‑world exposure. Veterans will study the fundamentals of screenwriting, producing, directing, and editing through a combination of online modules and live workshops. They will also work in teams on a short‑film project that will be showcased at a dedicated “Take the Lead” showcase event, offering participants a tangible product to add to their portfolios.

“The entertainment world is full of storytellers, and we’ve seen firsthand how the discipline and perspective that veterans bring can enrich that conversation,” said Starz Chief Executive Officer, Alexei Grigoriev, during the launch. “This program isn’t just about skill building; it’s about creating a network of support that can help veterans transition smoothly into the industry.”

Each cohort will be capped at 30 veterans, ensuring a tight mentorship environment. Participants will receive individualized guidance from a “Veteran Mentor” who has a proven track record in the industry—ranging from award‑winning directors to veteran producers and editors. In addition, Starz has partnered with the Veteran Film Institute (VFI) and The Wounded Warrior Project’s Media Program to provide supplemental resources, including counseling and career counseling tailored to the unique challenges veterans face.

Scholarships, Internships, and Job Placement

To lower the barriers to entry, Starz will cover all program fees and provide a stipend of $1,200 per participant, sourced from the network’s corporate social responsibility budget and philanthropic contributions. Moreover, each graduate will be offered a guaranteed internship placement at one of Starz’s production studios or partner companies, such as Lionsgate or Netflix’s creative teams, for a minimum of three months.

“This is a pipeline, not a one‑off workshop,” said Mariana Alvarez, Director of Talent Development at Starz. “The goal is to ensure that veterans not only learn the craft but also secure a foothold in the industry. By the time the cohort wraps up, they will have a portfolio, professional references, and a guaranteed internship that can turn into a full‑time role.”

Starz’s partnership with the American Film Institute (AFI) will also provide additional workshops on industry networking, contract negotiation, and financial management—areas that veterans often find confusing when entering the entertainment sector.

The “Take the Lead” Name and Its Significance

The program’s title, “Take the Lead,” draws inspiration from the 1978 film Take the Lead, which celebrated the transformative power of dance and mentorship. By naming the initiative after a classic story of personal growth, Starz hopes to signal its commitment to helping veterans lead new chapters in their lives.

“In the military, you’re trained to lead; in Hollywood, you’re trained to tell stories,” explained James L. Henderson, a former Marine and current consultant on the program. “We’re taking that leadership mindset and applying it to the creative arena.”

A Broader Industry Trend

While Starz’s launch is a notable development, it follows a growing trend in Hollywood to support veterans. In 2024, HBO Max introduced its “Veterans in the Arts” fellowship, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences launched a scholarship program for veteran screenwriters. Starz’s initiative positions the network at the forefront of this movement, potentially setting a benchmark for other streaming and broadcast companies.

How to Apply

Veterans who meet the eligibility criteria—minimum of one year of active duty or reserve service, U.S. citizenship, and a willingness to commit to the full 12‑week program—can apply through the dedicated portal on Starz’s official site: https://starz.com/veterans/lead. The application process includes a résumé, a brief essay explaining why the veteran wishes to enter the entertainment industry, and a short video pitch of a story idea they would like to develop.

Applications will be accepted until October 15, 2025, with cohort intake scheduled for January 2026. Starz will also accept referrals from partner organizations, ensuring that the program reaches veterans who may otherwise remain unnoticed.

Looking Ahead

Starz’s “Take the Lead” mentorship program represents more than a corporate philanthropy effort; it is a strategic investment in a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline. By combining robust training, mentorship, financial support, and guaranteed internship opportunities, Starz is creating a scalable model that could reshape the way veterans transition into Hollywood.

“As veterans, we bring resilience, teamwork, and a fresh perspective that can only enrich the creative community,” said Cameron Lee, a former Army officer who recently completed the first cohort. “With Starz’s support, I’m not just getting a job; I’m stepping into a new role where I can tell stories that matter.”

The industry will be watching closely as the first batch of veterans moves through the program and, hopefully, lands influential roles behind the camera. If successful, “Take the Lead” could become a template for other entertainment giants, proving that the same qualities that make someone an excellent soldier can also make them a remarkable storyteller.