Chairman, Chernin Group

Chernin guided the multi-stage investment firm into 21 deals over the past year in digital media, edtech, consumer blockchain and health and wellness brands. The Playa Vista-based company bought a minority stake in pop-culture collectibles Funko in May and made earlier investments in baby toy maker Lovevery and Food52, which is a cooking and home goods brand. TCG also considered raising funds for its own general-interest special purpose acquisition company but ultimately opted not to. Chernin previously was a top executive at News Corp., giving him an extensive a film and TV background. He keeps a hand in Hollywood businesses via his separate Chernin Entertainment.

YEARS ON THE LA500: 7