Dede Gardner Bio
Dorcas Wright “Dede” Gardner (born October 16, 1967) is an American film producer known for her significant contributions to the film industry. She has served as the president of Plan B Entertainment since its founding and currently holds the position of Co-President alongside Jeremy Kleiner. Gardner has earned acclaim for her work, winning Academy Awards for producing the films 12 Years a Slave (2013) and Moonlight (2016), making her the first woman to win two Oscars for Best Picture. Her career is marked by a commitment to producing impactful and critically acclaimed films.
Early Life and Background
Dede Gardner was born in Chicago, Illinois, to parents John Gardner and Dorothy Gardner. She graduated cum laude from Columbia University in 1990, where she was classmates with notable television showrunners Jeff Rake and Gina Fattore. Gardner’s father is a partner at the Chicago investment bank William Blair & Company, while her mother serves as president of the Michael Reese Health Trust. This background provided her with a strong foundation and exposure to various aspects of business and leadership, which would later influence her career in film.
Path to Hollywood
After completing her education, Dede Gardner began her career in the film industry, initially working in various capacities before establishing herself as a producer. She gained valuable experience and mentorship that helped her transition into producing full-time. Gardner’s early work included involvement in independent films and collaborations with established filmmakers, which allowed her to hone her skills and develop a unique voice in the industry. Her dedication and talent led her to significant opportunities, ultimately paving the way for her role at Plan B Entertainment.
Dede Gardner Career
Early Career (2006–2011)
Dede Gardner’s career as a producer began in earnest in 2006 when she joined Plan B Entertainment, a company co-founded by Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, and Brad Grey. Her first notable work was as a producer on The Tree of Life (2011), directed by Terrence Malick, which received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. This project set the stage for her future successes and established her reputation as a talented producer in Hollywood.
Breakthrough (2012–2016)
Gardner’s breakthrough came with the production of 12 Years a Slave (2013), directed by Steve McQueen. The film received widespread acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Picture, marking a significant milestone in her career. Following this success, she produced Moonlight (2016), which also won the Academy Award for Best Picture, further solidifying her status in the industry. Both films were recognized for their powerful storytelling and social relevance, showcasing Gardner’s commitment to producing meaningful cinema.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dede Gardner’s signature works include 12 Years a Slave and Moonlight, both of which earned her Academy Awards for Best Picture. In addition to these films, she has produced several other notable projects, including Selma (2014), The Big Short (2015), and Vice (2018). Her ability to select compelling stories and collaborate with talented filmmakers has led to numerous accolades and recognition throughout her career.
Dede Gardner Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Dede Gardner has received multiple nominations for prestigious awards, particularly at the Academy Awards. Her work has been recognized for its excellence and impact, showcasing her skills as a producer in the competitive film industry.
Dede Gardner Awards Won
Dede Gardner has won two Academy Awards for Best Picture for her work on 12 Years a Slave (2013) and Moonlight (2016). These wins highlight her exceptional talent and dedication to producing films that resonate with audiences and critics alike.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Awards | 1 | 2014 |
| Academy Awards | 1 | 2017 |
Dede Gardner Family
Dede Gardner is married to Jonathan Boris Berg, with whom she tied the knot in 2000 in an Episcopalian ceremony on Martha’s Vineyard. While details about her family life are not extensively publicized, her marriage has been a stable aspect of her personal life.
Personal Life
Dede Gardner maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing primarily on her career in film production. Her marriage to Jonathan Boris Berg has been a significant part of her life since 2000, and together they have built a life that balances both personal and professional commitments. Gardner’s dedication to her craft is evident in her body of work and her continued pursuit of impactful storytelling in cinema.
