EXCLUSIVE: Public relations firm 42West has named former Disney Corp Comm exec Jeffrey R. Epstein as their new VP of its Strategic Communications Division (SCD).
In addition, 42West’s Fandoms & Franchises division elevated two key executives: Jonah Keel has been promoted from SVP to EVP, and Michael Rizzo has advanced from Account Director to VP.
Epstein will be based in the firm’s Los Angeles office.
“Given today’s rapidly evolving media environment and the on-going business opportunities and challenges, finely honed strategic communications expertise is essential for positioning clients for long-term growth and success. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Jeffrey, a proven innovator and singular talent, into the 42West fold,” said Susie Arons, President of 42West’s Strategic Communications Division. “His command of the macro and micro issues facing the broad entertainment, media, and financial industries is a tremendous boon for our team, our company, and our treasured roster of clients.”
“Jonah and Michael have been instrumental in driving the success of our division, and their well-deserved promotions are a testament to exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and their commitment to our clients,” said Shawna Lynch, President of Fandoms & Franchises at 42West. “With their deep understanding of the industry and passion for innovation, we look forward to seeing them continue to excel in their new roles as they help shape the future of our department.”
In his new role, Epstein will work across a broad portfolio of industry sectors at the intersection of entertainment, technology, business, finance, and social impact, providing crisis communications, reputation management, and corporate messaging support. He previously consulted for Google where he helped reimagine branding and messaging of Google Cloud Cortex Framework to better connect its data and AI solutions with clients and consumers. Previously, he spent more than a decade at The Walt Disney Company, most recently serving as VP of Corporate Communications. There, Epstein oversaw communication strategies for several divisions, including Disney’s Brand & Franchise Group, The Walt Disney Archives, and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. He also led global communications efforts for major events, including the D23 Expo, and managed cross-company initiatives spanning North America and international markets. Throughout his tenure at Disney, Epstein was instrumental in driving brand narratives, managing crisis communications, and producing editorial content for TheWaltDisneyCompany.com and D23 publications.
Keel counts a 25-year career in the entertainment industry where he’s played an integral role in delivering innovative and successful campaigns across film, television, interactive gaming, and consumer products. As EVP, Keel will continue to lead high-impact strategies for the agency’s premier clients, with a focus on expanding the agency’s growing footprint in the gaming and franchise sectors. Among the notable campaigns he’s been integral to are the North American launch of MultiVersus, which won the 2022 Game Award for Best Fighting Game. In addition, Keel helped secure Toho’s first Academy Award for Godzilla Minus One (Best Visual Effects, 2024). Before joining 42West, Keel honed his expertise at agencies including BHI, Team Click and THA/Allied, as well as in Disney’s creative marketing assets division.
Over the past six years, Rizzo has played a pivotal role in spearheading high-impact initiatives across a variety of content, corporate and consumer product accounts. Among several client campaigns he’s been instrumental in are Mattel (Emmy-nominated Masters of the Universe: Revelation), Netflix (Emmy-nominated The Cuphead Show! and Annie award-winning Oni: Thunder God’s Tale), Funko (2025 Toy of the Year Awards Finalist). Rizzo has taken lead on such global brand accounts as Apple TV+, Archie Comics, GKIDS, Lionsgate, Super7 and Toho.
