Dodd Close to Being Named MPAA Head

Former Connecticut senator is well-connected in Hollywood and Washington

The Motion Picture Association of America is close to naming former Connecticut Sen. Christopher Dodd as its new head, TheWrap has confirmed.

Individuals with knowledge of the matter said a contract announcement could come as early as this week.

The MPAA declined to comment Monday.

Dodd, 66, is well connected in Washington and Hollywood and ran unsuccessfully for president in 2008. He is a friend of "Saturday Night Live" creator Lorne Michaels and dated Carrie Fisher.

The MPAA has been searching for more than a year for the right person to replace Dan Glickman, who stepped down in January after five years running the association. Bob Pisano has been acting chairman.

Dodd was among the candidates TheWrap reported were under consideration for the job in November.

The position of Hollywood's chief lobbyist, which pays for than $1.3 million a year, was held for decades by the iconic Jack Valenti.

News of the talks were first reported by the New York Times.

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