Television Producer at E! News International, Show Runner at NBCUniversal, Film Producer at E! Entertainment Networks, Producer at MTV, and much more. Find out the wonderful life of Hollywood media with this great interview with Alexander Von Roon.
The world of film and television can be relentless. Fast-paced, ever-evolving, and often misunderstood, the industry requires a rare mix of creative stamina and business savvy to thrive. Luckily, Alexander Von Roon has both in abundance. As a producer who’s worked with NBCUniversal, MTV, E! Entertainment Networks, and a long list of Hollywood icons, his career is a masterclass in storytelling across borders, formats, and genres.
I had a chat with Alexander to get a closer look at the real Hollywood — the one you don’t always see on screen.
You have held various roles in the industry such as producer, showrunner, and storyteller. What first drew you to the world of film and television?
The intensity. The sheer speed and unpredictability of it all is breathtaking. It’s remarkable how a concept can transform into chaos within just a few hours. I was always fascinated by how fast ideas could turn into scenes—and how much collaboration, vision, and passion it really takes. Once I saw how it worked behind the scenes, I couldn’t look away.
You’ve worked with some big names — Pierce Brosnan, Samuel L. Jackson, and George Clooney. Have there been any particularly memorable experiences?
Oh, absolutely. One of my favourite projects was working on The Lost Dutchman, which we shot on location in the Arizona desert. It was wild — literally. We were chasing Apaches, filming intense action scenes, all based around the legend of the Superstition Mountains. It was a day filled with guns, sand, and drama.
Then there’s November Man, directed by Roger Donaldson and starring Pierce Brosnan. Working with him was fantastic. And in the same year, I bumped into George Lazenby. Who would have thought that I would have two Bonds in a single calendar year? Maybe I should apply for the role myself next!
You mentioned meeting George Clooney too — what was that like?
George is truly exceptional. We met at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. He was giving advice on how to survive the “heat” of Hollywood — both literally and metaphorically. The man can direct and act at the same time and still hold a conversation about world politics. He’s always polite and composed. He reminds me a bit of Cary Grant — that old-school charm. You experience a sense of being surrounded by someone who is both grounded and incredibly charismatic.
What’s been your most challenging project so far?
Every production encounters unexpected challenges. But the greatest challenge isn’t necessarily the location or the content — it’s the human factor. Managing personalities, expectations, and egos on set can be just as intense as managing budgets or timelines.
Fame, too, has changed. It used to be a goal. Now it’s almost a side effect—and sometimes a burden. What’s important is knowing why you’re in this business in the first place. For me, it’s about telling stories and doing work I enjoy, not chasing public approval.
Speaking of fame, do you ever feel like you’ve “made it”?
[Laughs] I think the day you feel like you’ve “made it” is the day you stop growing. I’ve worked with some wonderful people — David Fincher, J.J. Abrams, David Mamet, Michael Bay, Becky Martin, and David Zucker — and each project taught me something new. However, I consistently sense that I’m only beginning my journey.
Is there anyone you haven’t worked with yet that you’d love to collaborate with?
I’ve always admired Brian De Palma. His work carries Hitchcock’s legacy into a more psychological, modern space. I’d love to work with him on a thriller — something gripping, layered, and beautifully shot.
You’re originally from Germany but have built your career in the US. What made you move to Los Angeles?
It was the energy. It was the belief that anything is possible. People in the US are more willing to give you a chance, even a second chance. There’s a spirit of reinvention here that I admire. I lived in New York for a while and saw it as the modern Rome, pre-9/11. But LA? It’s not just the centre of film — it’s where music, art, and culture collide. And if you live by the ocean, like I do, it’s difficult to beat.
Do you ever miss Europe?
I do. I miss my family, and I go back several times a year. I love the cultural diversity. But LA has its own community — believe it or not, there are over 250,000 Germans here, plus Brits, Croatians, Scandinavians… It’s a very international city if you know where to look.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career?
Ron Meyer, Vice Chairman of NBCUniversal, once told me, “Never assume anything.” That advice has saved me more times than I can count. Always double-check. Always stay humble. Additionally, my parents taught me early on: “Do the right thing, even if no one’s watching.”
What advice would you give someone who is trying to break into the industry?
Don’t do it for the fame. That fades fast. Find something you genuinely love and commit to becoming the best at it. Be kind to people. Be useful. Don’t rely on Plan B if you really believe in Plan A—but be prepared to pivot if needed. And if Tom Cruise can show up every day, sleep three hours, and still shake every hand on set with a smile, you can too.
Are there any final words to live by?
These words might sound odd, but “You always meet twice in life.” That’s what Berti Vogts—the 1974 World Cup Champion—once told me. We laughed about it, but he was right. I even ran into the same Egyptian guide, ten years apart, at the Pyramids. Be kind. Be sincere. You never know who’ll come back into your story.
With an ever-expanding portfolio, a love for cross-cultural storytelling, and unwavering respect for the craft, Alexander Von Roon continues to prove that talent, tenacity, and a touch of humour can take you anywhere—even into the hearts of Hollywood.
