Bragging Rights:
Melissa Chusid is an accomplished casting director and talent executive, specializing in children’s entertainment, sports and music. Chusid began her career at Nickelodeon in 1996, where she spent almost ten years in the talent department of the iconic kids network. During her tenure at Nickelodeon, she handled many high-profile projects, including a key role in the nationwide search for a new host of the groundbreaking series “Blue’s Clues.” In addition, Chusid played a significant role in the 2002-2005 hit “U-Pick Live,” the daily, live programming block featuring celebrity interviews, comedy sketches and music performances. In her role as Director, Talent, Chusid also worked on casting and talent relations for “Dora the Explorer,” “Go, Diego, Go!,” “The Backyardigans” and “Little Bill.” Chusid currently has her own company Hope Productions, and serves as a consultant for several high-profile companies on their casting and talent needs. Prior to starting Hope Productions, Chusid was Director, Talent and Development for MSG Media, the newly launched Madison Square Garden Network initiative to expand programming beyond “all sports” to “sports and entertainment.” She was closely involved in recruiting music talent and coordinating all on-air events, as well as assisting the development of MSG Network’s critically acclaimed entertainment programming, a first for the formerly all-sports network. She was also Director, Talent at College Sports Television (CSTV), the CBS-owned network focusing on college sports. Chusid’s additional experience includes casting the feature films “August Rush” and “A Guide To Recognizing Your Saints,” which featured top celebrity talent including Robert Downey Jr., Chazz Palminteri, Shia LeBeouf and Robin Williams. A lifelong resident of New York City, Chusid has a degree in Government Studies from Skidmore College.