Giannina Antola
Giannina Antola, an experienced international TV sales and acquisitions over the past 38 years, passed away last weekend. Antola started her career at Procter and Gamble after graduating with an M.A. in Economics from Duke University and a B.A. from Wellesley College. She moved into international TV sales and acquisitions and, in a career that spanned over 38 years, where she headed international sales for leading entertainment companies Rysher, Endemol, Gullane, Evergreen Entertainment, Distribution 360, Tele-Munchen International, as well as setting up her consultancy representing CINAR, DIC, ABC Network, Canal Plus, Thames Television, Sunbow and Westinghouse in Latin America.
Most recently, Antola was covering maternity and leading sales at Cake. She was loved and respected in the industry and will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and colleagues. ”We are devastated by the sudden loss of Giannina. She was a great friend for over 25 years and was a part of so many people’s lives in our industry. Over the past year, she came to work with us at Cake and was a delight to work with. The team really enjoyed her company and the warmth that she brought to the office. We will miss her dearly,” said Ed Galton, CEO of Cake.
“Giannina was the most thorough and talented sales exec any of us have ever known. All while being a real and kind friend to so many all over the world. Quiet and smart and so funny, the industry will miss her gentle soul,” said Erik Pack, senior VP of global sales and co-production at Boat Rocker Studios.
“A great friend who leaves a void in all of us. She will be missed by those who knew and loved her. It will never be the same,” added Jerry Diaz, VP of sales and global distribution at Big Bad Boo Studios.