Capítulo 406: Chapter 406: Janet Jackson's Contract
After Christmas, the intensifying Mexican financial crisis prompted the Mexican government to launch several urgent economic rescue plans to stabilize the financial market. These included quickly reducing the current account deficit to a manageable level, swiftly resuming normal economic activities and employment, and minimizing inflation as much as possible.
However, Arthur knew that Mexico had no choice but to seek help from the International Monetary Fund, which was controlled by the United States.
"It's already spreading to the Latin American region," Arthur said, sitting in his office at Galaxy in Glendale, flipping through the economic news in the newspaper.
Suddenly, he came across an article about Michael Ovitz's interview with Newsweek:
"What do you think about Pixar Animation Studios under Galaxy Entertainment releasing their first 3D animated feature?"
"In recent years, many film companies have launched their animated movies, but they pose no threat to Disney. As for Galaxy, Arthur Smith has a keen eye for live-action movies, but I think he's more interested in dating Hollywood actresses, just like Howard Hughes was in his day. But look, RKO Pictures is now lost to history, isn't it?"
Arthur rubbed his eyes. Can Howard Hughes's achievements compare with his own?
"Michael Ovitz?" Arthur immediately called his assistant, "Anna, do you know what this Disney president is up to now?"
Anna Walker thought for a moment, "He seems to be negotiating a record deal with Janet Jackson. Michael Ovitz managed the Jackson family's business under CAA. Hollywood Records wants to sign Janet Jackson for a few albums!"
Arthur chuckled, "Oh, Michael's sister Janet Jackson, huh? Have someone from Galaxy Records reach out to her too. Michael Jackson didn't get much support from CAA in his child abuse case, and he's considering switching to another agency. Ovitz wants to make a name for himself at Disney and hopes to sign Janet Jackson for a few albums at a low price. Let Galaxy Records try to win her over!"
Arthur originally wanted Galaxy Records to develop their own talent, as it was more profitable that way. Labels like Death Row Records for hip-hop and Jive Records for pop music were doing exactly that.
However, since Michael Ovitz wanted to play the game, Arthur didn't mind giving him a challenge. Even though Disney had its selection program The Mickey Mouse Club to train young stars and didn't like signing big-name artists for high prices, Janet Jackson was one of the top four pop stars.
...
On New Year's Eve, Michael Ovitz visited Janet Jackson, hoping to sign her to a seven-album deal worth $75 million.
Janet Jackson asked, "Is this an offer from Hollywood Records?"
Michael Ovitz smiled, "I believe Mr. Eisner won't refuse this contract!"
Janet Jackson wasn't stupid. Since when did Disney sign big-name stars? This was just Ovitz's offer. The Jackson family had known Michael Ovitz for a long time, and CAA had managed their business dealings, so Janet didn't want to strain their relationship.
"Mr. Ovitz, maybe you should go back and discuss this internally with Disney," Janet Jackson gently reminded him.
Michael Ovitz nodded and soon left Janet Jackson's villa.
Later, Janet Jackson looked at an official contract from Galaxy Records offering $65 million for a five-album studio deal. Compared to Hollywood Records, Galaxy offered much better terms.
Janet Jackson knew that Galaxy's boss was good friends with her brother, who didn't get much support from CAA. He was also considering switching to UTA. Janet Jackson called her brother Michael Jackson to discuss the new contract.
After a brief silence, Michael Jackson said, "Mr. Ovitz is no longer the president of CAA. He's now the president of Disney, fighting for Disney's interests. Although he has a good relationship with our family, you should choose what feels right for you. As for my relationship with Arthur, we are true friends; you don't need to mix it all together."
Janet Jackson smiled, "I know all that, and Mr. Ovitz's offer is only verbal. I will seriously consider it. Thanks, Michael!"
"Alright, get some rest, Janet!"
Due to the child abuse allegations, Michael Jackson participated in fewer public activities this year. Janet Jackson had a close relationship with her brother Michael and was the second top artist in the Jackson family after him. Michael's current troubles pained her, and she didn't want to outright reject Michael Ovitz for fear of retaliation. After all, Ovitz had extensive connections and was now the president of Disney, a significant figure.
...
In Los Angeles, at the Venice Beach marina on a private yacht named Black Pearl, Arthur watched the New Year's fireworks with Winona Ryder and Jennifer Aniston in his arms.
"It's another new year," Arthur sighed, looking at the brilliant fireworks in the night sky.
"You feeling sentimental?" Jennifer Aniston laughed, kissing his cheek, "You've achieved a lot this year. Galaxy has made significant strides. You also acquired several sports teams!"
Winona Ryder snuggled closer to Arthur's shoulder, "With the two of us by your side, what else could you be unhappy about?"
"Happy, of course I'm happy," Arthur reached into Winona Ryder's embrace, feeling the softness, "Your performance in Little Women was excellent. Attend more promotions; academy voters will be there. This time, getting you an Oscar nomination for Best Actress is a sure thing!"
"Okay," Winona Ryder said, kissing him.
"Alright, let's go inside," Arthur grinned, leading the two women into the cabin, where they eagerly started kissing.
For Arthur, it was indeed a wonderful New Year's Eve...
*****
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