Our Story

About CMG Worldwide

CMG Worldwide was founded nearly half a century ago with a groundbreaking mission: to protect the intellectual property of Norman Rockwell’s artwork. Since then, CMG has risen to become the global leader in representing the world’s most celebrated personalities and estates. Today, we proudly safeguard the legacies of over 1500+ of the most iconic figures and brands, recognized internationally for our unmatched expertise in marketing, management, and intellectual property valuation.

From entertainment legends like James Dean and Bettie Page to civil rights icons Malcolm X and Rosa Parks, sports heroes Arthur Ashe and Roberto Clemente, literary giants Maya Angelou and Mark Twain, and historic trailblazers like Albert Einstein and Neil Armstrong, CMG continues to honor their impact and legacy. We also represent distinguished brands, including the renowned Beverly Hills Shield.

At the core of our mission is a relentless commitment to preserving these legacies for future generations. We understand the unique goals of each client and offer tailored services that go beyond expectations. With unmatched legal protection, strategic branding, and precedent-setting advocacy, we have established a new standard in intellectual property rights management.

As we look to the future, CMG remains at the forefront of innovation in licensing and intellectual property. Our legacy of success, combined with the expertise of our passionate team, ensures that we not only lead the industry—we are reshaping it. This is only the beginning

History

1981

Mark Roesler, founding CMG Worldwide, began safeguarding Norman Rockwell’s artwork through Curtis Publishing, highlighting the need for legal protection of deceased celebrities’ legacies.

1982

In a meteoric rise CMG Worldwide, under the leadership of Mark Roesler, began representing the estates of cultural icons Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and James Dean, quickly establishing itself as a powerhouse in celebrity legacy management and setting a new standard for posthumous rights and representation.

1988

Roesler secured rights for retired MLB players to use their team uniforms in endorsements, challenging Major League Baseball and setting a precedent for athletes' rights.

1992

In a landmark case against Warner Bros. over James Dean's merchandising rights, Roesler affirmed that the Dean family retained control, influencing future celebrity estate management.

1993

A legal victory against director Spike Lee confirmed Betty Shabazz's rights to the "X" symbol associated with Malcolm X, underscoring the importance of personal rights over commercial use.

1994

Roesler spearheaded Indiana’s Right of Publicity Statute, providing unprecedented protection for celebrities' likenesses for 100 years and inspiring similar laws nationwide.

2000

CMG Worldwide expanded its footprint with a new office in Los Angeles, California, broadening its reach in entertainment and celebrity rights management.

2010

The Michael Jackson Estate engaged CMG Worldwide for a valuation of Jackson's IP, challenging the IRS's $435 million estimate. This decade-long case, dubbed "The Tax Trial of the Century," affirmed CMG’s expertise in celebrity IP valuation.

2015

Mark Roesler and Travis Cloyd founded Worldwide XR, pioneering in AR/XR content and experiential activations, utilizing CMG's vast client IP to produce innovative content for major brands and events.

2016

CMG honored to manage Maya Angelou's legacy, amplifying her voice that championed black womanhood, freedom, and dignity through her timeless works.

2017

Expanding into Nashville's vibrant music scene, CMG Music amplifies the legacies of icons like Jerry Garcia and Maya Angelou, showcasing their contributions to music and culture.

2018

Launching CMG Speaks, CMG ventured into public speaker representation, offering platforms for voices that continue the legacies of the world's most influential figures.

2021

The US Tax Court's ruling in favor of CMG’s valuation of Michael Jackson's estate over the IRS's assessment marks a significant victory for CMG, saving its client tens of millions of dollars and reaffirming its leadership in celebrity IP valuation.

2022

CMG proudly represents Harvey Milk, celebrating his trailblazing advocacy and enduring legacy in the LGBTQ+ movement as California's first openly gay elected official.

2024

CMG welcomes Albert Einstein, whose revolutionary insights into the universe, coupled with a humble and playful demeanor, cemented his status as one of the most famous, influential, and universally-admired humans to have ever lived.

Philanthropy

Empowering Communities, Honoring Legacies

At CMG Worldwide, our commitment to making a difference goes beyond business. We actively support communities and renowned charitable organizations worldwide, proudly sponsoring numerous fundraisers and non-profit initiatives. Through monetary contributions and memorabilia donations, we strive to create a lasting impact.

We welcome charitable contribution requests throughout the year. To be considered, please complete our Charitable Donation Inquiry form.

CMG Worldwide is honored to collaborate with distinguished charities, including:

ALS Association
Bob Feller Museum
The Mark Twain Association of New York, Inc.
Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum

Together, we preserve legacies and uplift communities.

Mark Roesler

For over four decades, CMG Worldwide Founder & Chairman Mark Roesler has been at the forefront of intellectual property rights, representing over 1,500+ of the world’s most iconic personalities. Under his leadership, CMG has become a dominant force in the ever-evolving IP landscape. Mark’s expertise extends beyond marketing and management; he is a renowned expert in IP litigation, valuation, and consulting. To learn more about his groundbreaking work, featured appearances, including on 60 Minutes, and his extensive services, visit MarkRoesler.com.