Mark Lazarus to Receive 2026 BFOA Golden Mic Award

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 24, 2025 | 12:36pm CT

Mark Lazarus

Mark Lazarus, Chief Executive Officer of VERSANT and former Chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, will be honored with the 2026 Golden Mic Award by the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA). The award will be presented during the Foundation's annual black-tie gala on March 9, 2026, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.

The Golden Mic gala is the BFOA's largest annual fundraiser, supporting radio and television professionals facing financial hardship due to illness or personal tragedy.

Lazarus said he was "deeply honored" to receive the award, adding, "Broadcasting has always been about connecting people, and the Foundation's work reminds us of the profound responsibility and privilege we have to support one another, especially in times of need."

As CEO of VERSANT, Lazarus oversees a portfolio of major cable networks-USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW, Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel-along with digital assets including Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, and Sports Engine. The company is positioned to become a future publicly traded media enterprise.

Before leading VERSANT, Lazarus served as Chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, where he led the company's TV and streaming platforms, distribution strategy, and monetization. His tenure included extending NBC's Olympics rights through 2032 and overseeing record engagement for the Paris 2024 Summer Games. His earlier roles include President of Turner Entertainment Group and President of Media and Marketing for Career & Sport Entertainment.

"Mark is a highly respected television executive known for his leadership and ability to carve out innovative paths to success," said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation. "We are delighted to recognize his many contributions to broadcasting with the 2026 Golden Mic Award."

The Golden Mic Award honors individuals who demonstrate excellence in broadcasting and a commitment to serving their communities. Past recipients include Brian Lawlor, Jordan Wertlieb, Bob Pittman, David Barrett, Perry Sook, Emily Barr, Hilton Howell Jr., and Jack Abernethy.

More information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including aid applications and donation opportunities, is available at broadcastersfoundation.org.