Jon Slusser is an accomplished entertainment executive, entrepreneur, and brand builder with two decades of experience shaping some of the most memorable moments in sports, live events, and media.
After graduating from USC with degrees in marketing and finance, Jon began his career with the LA Clippers, working across public relations, finance, and special projects. In 1998, he founded Hornet Inc., a creative production company that grew from a two-computer startup in a small office to a 100+ person team with studios in Los Angeles and New York. As CEO, he guided Hornet’s creative vision, daily operations, and long-term strategy.
In 2003, Jon and Hornet acquired GameTrailers.com, a then-niche video game site. Under his leadership as CEO, it rapidly became a leading destination for gaming content, ultimately acquired by Viacom in 2006. Following the acquisition, Jon was named Vice President at MTV Networks, where he oversaw digital platforms and original content.
He went on to serve as Senior Vice President at Viacom’s Spike brand, where he launched Spike Digital Entertainment and managed properties including Spike.com, GameTrailers, UltimateFighter.com, and the television series "GameTrailers TV". Later, as SVP of Sports and Specials, Jon developed and produced high-profile, events for Bellator MMA, GLORY Kickboxing, and Premier Boxing Champions, as well as award shows, documentaries, and live specials like "I AM" documentaries, "Guys Choice Awards", "One Night Only", and "Rock The Troops".
In 2019, Jon returned to Hornet and its subsidiary, The Famous Group, as CEO and Managing Partner. Under his leadership, The Famous Group has become a global leader in creative technology for live events, inventing and patenting breakthrough innovations such as the "Vixi Suite" fan engagement platform, "Virtual Camera Mixed Reality" system and "Virtual Seat". These cutting-edge technologies and services are transforming how audiences experience live sports, entertainment, and branded events worldwide. In recognition of the company’s innovation and market leadership, global advertising powerhouse IPG acquired a stake in The Famous Group, fueling its continued growth and global expansion.
