Salma Hayek Signs a First-Look Deal With Lionsgate

Lionsgate wants Hayek to also produce films under its Latin-focused banner, Pantelion Films

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Lionsgate

Lionsgate announced on Thursday that it has inked a first-look producing deal with Mexican-American actress and producer Salma Hayek-Pinault.

Under the deal, which includes Hayek-Pinault’s producing partner Jose “Pepe” Tamez, the pair will produce films for Lionsgate under the Ventanarosa Productions banner.

Lionsgate will also explore having Hayek-Pinault produce films for it’s Latin audience-focused production arm Pantelion Films, hoping to capitalize on her bankability in both Latin and American markets.

“Salma is an artist with a distinct and powerful voice whose projects resonate with audiences around the world, and we’re thrilled to partner with her and Jose on films that reflect their unique creative vision,” Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Joe Drake said in a statement.

Hayek-Pinault actually starred in Pantelion’s surprise hit last year, “How to Be a Latin Lover,” which garnered $32 million in domestic box office and $62 million worldwide on a $10 million production budget.

“Salma is a major superstar who has shown that great film and television properties transcend language and cultural boundaries,” Pantelion Films CEO Paul Presburger said in a statement.

Some of Hayek-Pinault’s producing credits include “Frida” — which earned her an Oscar nomination — the animated film “The Prophet,” and Golden Globe-winning show “Ugly Betty.”

Lionsgate said they already have several projects in development with Hayek-Pinault, and that they also plan to produce films for her to star in.

“I’m very grateful to begin this new phase of my partnership with Lionsgate,” Hayek-Pinault said in a statement. “They have built a tremendous rapport with mainstream and underserved audiences alike and their willingness to push the envelope with films that reflect a bold and authentic creative vision fills me with great excitement. I couldn’t have found a better home.

“I look forward to the adventure of working with a team that makes me feel heard and respected and that celebrates diversity and the female point of view,” she added.

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