Tim Arango
Louisiana congressman Billy Tauzin has been plucked to replace Jack Valenti, the long-running head of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), according to sources familiar with the matter.
Speculation that the 82-year-old Valenti, who has headed the movie industry's powerful lobbying group since 1966, would step down has run rampant for years. But now, sources say, Tauzin, a Republican, has agreed to take the job, which comes with a reported $1 million annual salary.
He could take up the reigns as soon as the end of this year, after the current congressional session ends in November.
A spokesman for Tauzin said, "No one has offered him a job, and there are no negotiations taking place." He added, however, that Tauzin is likely on the MPAA's wish list of candidates.
A spokesperson for the MPAA did not return calls seeking comment.
On CNBC this week, Hilary Rosen, the former head of the Recording Industry Association of America, said, "I think this is a done deal. I could have egg on my face in a couple weeks, but I think this is a done deal."
A high-level movie industry source confirmed Valenti's imminent departure to The Post.
http://www.nypost.com/business/41882.htm