After a whirlwind couple of weeks in the industry, Rob Westerling is making a return to Harkins Theatres as its VP of Content & Programming in Scottsdale, AZ. This move comes on the heels of his short-lived stint as the SVP of U.S. Content at Regal Cinemas, a position he left after just two weeks. The swift change speaks volumes about the current state of affairs at Regal Cinemas, with rumors swirling about the possibility of the No. 2 circuit falling back into bankruptcy.
In a statement issued by Mike Bowers, president and CEO of Harkins Theatres, he expressed his excitement about Westerling’s return, citing it as a testament to the company’s culture and commitment to providing an unparalleled moviegoing experience. Westerling is no stranger to the industry, with 23 years of experience under his belt, 21 of which were spent at Regal.
A Rollercoaster Ride
The entertainment industry is known for its ups and downs, and Westerling’s journey is a perfect example of this. Starting out at West Town Mall in Knoxville, TN in 2001, Westerling quickly climbed the ranks to become the Head of Film at Regal in 2018. However, his recent change of heart regarding his position at Regal showcases the unpredictability of the industry and the ever-changing landscape of cinema.
The news of Westerling’s return to Harkins Theatres is just one piece of the puzzle in the larger narrative of the cinema industry. With rumors of Cineworld looking to divest their UK cinemas and the possibility of Regal falling back into bankruptcy, the future of movie theaters remains uncertain. The rapid turnover of executives and the shifting dynamics within major theater chains like Regal highlight the challenges facing the industry today.
Rob Westerling’s return to Harkins Theatres marks a new chapter in his career and in the ever-evolving world of cinema exhibition. His decision to leave his position at Regal speaks to the complex nature of the industry and the constant flux of the entertainment landscape. As the industry grapples with challenges old and new, the return of a familiar face like Westerling brings a sense of continuity amidst the uncertainty.