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Jack ValentiPresident of the Motion Picture Association of America
Date of Birth: 05.09.1921
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Jack Valenti: A Life Devoted to Film and Public Service
- Education and Military Service
- Political Career
- President of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA)
- Creation of the MPAA Film Rating System
- NC-17 Rating
- Retirement and Legacy
- Honors and Recognition
Jack Valenti: A Life Devoted to Film and Public Service
Birth and ChildhoodJack Joseph Valenti was born on September 5, 1921, in Houston, Texas, to Italian immigrants.
Education and Military Service
Valenti graduated with a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston in 1946. Later, he earned a master's degree from Harvard University. During his studies, he worked as a journalist for The Daily Cougar and served as the student body president.
Political Career
After graduating, Valenti joined the Johnson administration in 1963. He served as Special Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs.
President of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA)
In 1966, Valenti was appointed President of the MPAA by Universal Studios executive Lew Wasserman. He served in this role for 38 years.
Creation of the MPAA Film Rating System
In 1968, Valenti introduced the MPAA film rating system, establishing the categories G, M, R, and X. The M category was later replaced by GP and then PG.
NC-17 Rating
In 1990, Valenti introduced the NC-17 rating to replace the X rating, which had become associated with pornography.
Retirement and Legacy
Valenti retired from the MPAA in August 2004, passing the reins to former U.S. Congressman Dan Glickman. He died on April 26, 2007, in Washington, D.C., from complications of a stroke.
Honors and Recognition
Valenti received numerous awards for his contributions to the film industry and public policy, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1996. The University of Houston School of Communication was renamed the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication in his honor in 2008.
