Introduction
Dame Donna Langley-Shamshiri DBE is a British movie executive who is Chairwoman of Universal Pictures. She was profiled in Variety's "Power of Women" issue in 2014.
Career
Langley began her career as a production executive at New Line Cinema. In 2001, she became senior VP of production at Universal Pictures.
In her time at Universal, Langley has overseen such film franchises as Fast & the Furious as well as Despicable Me and the Bourne movies. Her work also includes overseeing the global specialty division, Focus Features, as well as DreamWorks Animation, acquired by Universal in 2016.
Throughout her career, she has supported mentorship opportunities for women. Langley helped launch The Hollywood Reporter's Women in Film Mentorship program. She also serves as an ambassador and board member for the nonprofit Vital Voices.
Langley was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the 2020 New Year Honours for services to film and entertainment.
Personal life
Langley is married with two children, and lives in Los Angeles with her family.