When Darrell D. Miller graduated as a musical theatre major from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in 1985, he could not have predicted that one day his legal and career counsel would be sought by Hollywood’s A-list celebrities. In recognition of his inspiring journey from performer to attorney, Miller received the Kautz Alumni Masters Forum Award during a recent visit to UC’s campus.
“Your dynamic career path is a profound example of what is possible with a UC education. As a Cincinnati native, we are proud to welcome you home and recognize you for your remarkable professional accomplishments,” said UC President Santa Ono as he presented the award. Miller also was recognized for his career achievements by UC Foundation President Rod Grabowski and CCM Dean Peter Landgren.
Miller is the managing partner of Fox Rothschild LLP’s Los Angeles office, and the chair of the firm’s Entertainment Law Department. He practices in the areas of film, television, music and new media, with clients including Academy Award-nominated actress Angela Bassett, CBS’s NCIS star and Cincinnati native Rocky Carroll, and music mogul and film actor Chris “Ludacris” Bridges. He is author of the award-winning book, “The 16th Minute of Fame: An Insider's Guide for Maintaining Success Beyond 15 Minutes of Fame,” and was named one of the Top 100 Entertainment Power Lawyers in America in 2013 by The Hollywood Reporter.
Over two days on campus, Miller shared his life and career experiences with students and faculty and enjoyed reacquainting himself with his alma mater. He answered questions from student groups in the College of Law about what it’s like to serve as legal counsel to entertainment professionals — from negotiations to litigation to dealing with personalities.
In a master class for musical theatre and drama students, Miller delighted the group by opening with a song from Les Misérables, discussed industry trends and encouraged students to diversify their performance experiences. “That little bit of confidence and encouragement you get here — and that I got here — will carry you a long way,” he said. He credits supportive faculty and performance opportunities at CCM, along with a focus on “thinking differently” and embracing change as part of the foundations of his success. He offered his assistance to students, saying, “You have a friend in Los Angeles.”
A luncheon was held at the African American Cultural and Resource Center to honor Miller and welcome him and his family to campus. During the event, he shared his story about growing up in a blue collar family in Cincinnati, expressing to students his belief that opportunities are unlimited, urging students to “make the most of whatever you’re given.”
While on campus, Miller also visited with UC executives, donors, faculty, family and friends at a reception at CCM in his honor before taking in a performance of the college’s Mainstage production of Legally Blonde – The Musical.
Learn more about the Kautz Alumni Masters Program at UC.