Literary Manager Jon Kee Joins Circle Of Confusion
BREAKING NEWS: Circle of Confusion has hired Literary Manager Jon Kee to join the firm.
In the world of entertainment, breaking into the industry requires more than just talent—it takes access, mentorship, and an unwavering drive to succeed. For Jon Kee, an HBCU IN LA alumnus, his journey from intern to Literary Manager at Circle of Confusion is a testament to the transformative power of opportunity and perseverance.
As the first HBCU IN LA participant to secure a position at a major management company, Kee is not only carving out his own path but also shaping the future for the next generation of diverse creatives.
The Early Days: From Nickel City to Hollywood
Jon Kee’s journey began in the Nickel City, where he developed a love for storytelling and entertainment. His path to Hollywood was paved with persistence, a keen eye for talent, and an innate ability to connect with creative minds. Kee’s first major opportunity came through the Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program’s HBCU IN LA initiative, a program designed to bridge the gap between top-tier entertainment companies and talented students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
During his time in the program, Kee secured an internship at United Talent Agency (UTA), where he worked in the Voiceover department. This experience gave him firsthand exposure to the inner workings of talent representation, igniting his passion for literary and talent management. He continued building his expertise at the SAG Awards, gaining further industry knowledge before moving on to Good Fear Content, where he assisted Scott Stoops in the literary department and Chris Bender on the production side—all while curating his own roster of emerging talent.
A Landmark Achievement: Joining Circle of Confusion
Kee’s journey came full circle when he landed a coveted position as a Literary Manager at Circle of Confusion, a firm known for discovering and representing top-tier talent across film, television, and digital media. This achievement was not just a personal milestone—it was a groundbreaking moment for the HBCU IN LA program, marking the first time an alum had been hired by a major management company.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jon to the Circle of Confusion family and to further our commitment to fostering diverse talent in the industry,” said the Circle partners. “His incredible energy and ability to identify talent make him an invaluable asset to our team.”
EICOP’s Role in Paving the Way
Kee’s success is a shining example of why EICOP’s HBCU IN LA program exists. Founded by Stacy Milner, EICOP is dedicated to creating direct pathways for diverse talent into entertainment, media, sports, and technology. Over the years, the program has become a recognized diversity pipeline, providing HBCU students with critical access to industry leaders, mentorship, and hands-on experience.
Milner, who has witnessed Kee’s growth from the start, expressed immense pride in his achievements. “Jon is exactly why we created this program—to give talented, hardworking students access to an industry that historically has lacked diversity,” she said. “He took full advantage of the opportunities in front of him, and I have no doubt he will continue to leave a lasting impact. We are HBCU IN LA proud!”
Building a More Inclusive Industry
Kee’s journey is more than just an individual success story—it represents a broader shift in entertainment toward greater inclusivity. Through its partnerships, Circle of Confusion has hosted multiple HBCU IN LA students, solidifying its commitment to investing in diverse talent. The firm also runs a tri-annual internship program, which has welcomed over 350 students from more than 75 colleges worldwide, and is in its second iteration of the Writer’s Discovery Fellowship, designed to uplift underrepresented writers, directors, and creators.
Meanwhile, HBCU IN LA continues to expand its reach, recently adding new partners in Live Events, Gaming/Technology, and Entertainment Law & Policy. With the launch of its year-long Fellowship with the Motion Picture Association, the program is deepening its impact and creating new opportunities for students of color in all facets of the industry.
Shaping the Next Generation
As Kee settles into his role at Circle of Confusion, he remains committed to paying it forward. His journey—from an ambitious intern to a rising industry leader—serves as a blueprint for HBCU students looking to make their mark in entertainment.
“Success in this industry isn’t just about who you know, it’s about who’s willing to take a chance on you,” Kee reflects. “EICOP gave me that chance, and now I want to do the same for others.”
With his sharp industry acumen, passion for nurturing talent, and commitment to diversity, Kee is blazing a trail that will inspire generations to come. One thing is certain—his impact is just beginning.
Check out his exclusive feature on Deadline: https://deadline.com/2022/10/circle-of-confusion-jon-kee-1235137609/
