Sandy Wernick, Adam Sandler’s longtime manager, dies at 86

Sandy Wernick, longtime manager of Adam Sandler and Brillstein Entertainment partner, dies at 86

Sanford ‘Sandy’ Wernick, the influential Hollywood manager and Brillstein Entertainment partner, has died at the age of 86 in Rancho Mirage, California. Known for his decades-long career shaping careers in film, television and comedy, Wernick’s impact on the industry was profound, particularly through his longtime management of Adam Sandler, whom he signed at just 22 years old before Sandler rose to fame on ‘Saturday Night Live.’

Wernick’s relationship with Sandler was celebrated in the Netflix film ‘Sandy Wexler,’ which paid tribute to Wernick’s reputation as a master dealmaker. Beyond talent management, he held key roles in television and motion picture packaging and producing, having worked his way from the MCA mailroom to vice president of ICM’s TV division. His influence extended across iconic shows such as ‘Saturday Night Live,’ ‘The Muppet Show,’ ‘The Sopranos,’ ‘NewsRadio,’ ‘Just Shoot Me,’ ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ and ‘The Goldbergs.’

In film, Wernick executive produced hits including ‘Happy Gilmore,’ ‘Billy Madison,’ ‘The Wedding Singer’ and ‘Bulletproof,’ while also making cameo appearances in several TV shows and movies. His roster of clients was extensive, encompassing actors, writers, directors and producers such as Tim Herlihy, Lorne Michaels, Rob Schneider, Peter Falk, Norm Crosby and Alexandra Pelosi.

Wernick also contributed to the next generation of talent through teaching as an adjunct professor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ Peter Stark Producing Program and volunteered in the Cedars Sinai Emergency Room. Born in the Bronx, he was a graduate of NYU and served in the Army from 1960 to 1962.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara, their daughter Michele, son Barry, daughter-in-law Jillian, grandson Sammy, sister Joyce and brother-in-law Jules. Private services are planned in Palm Desert, with a memorial to follow in Los Angeles. Hollywood peers and fans alike are remembering Wernick’s career, his mentorship and his lasting contributions to film and television.