SXSW Film & TV Festival Taps Claudette Godfrey as Director After Janet Pierson Steps Aside
Pat Saperstein Deputy Editor Longtime SXSW Film & TV Festival Director Janet Pierson will transition to be Director Emeritus, the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals announced Wednesday. Her deputy Claudette Godfrey will take over leadership of the festival. Pierson served as head of the film and TV branch of SXSW for 15 years, part of her 45 years in the independent film business as producer’s rep, exhibitor and many other roles. During her time at SXSW, the festival launched a dedicated section for episodic programs, years before other festivals. In her new role, she will serve as a programmer for the next edition of the fest in 2023, where she will be feted for her contributions to SXSW and entertainment.