Barney Balaban

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Barney Balaban (1887-1971) was one of five Balaban brothers from Chicago who founded the Balaban and Katz Theatre Chain. Two other brothers, Harry and Elmer owned their own theatre concern called H & E Balaban. Barney was the eldest son of Gussie and Israel Balaban.

He began as corporate secretary for Balaban and Katz. He eventually became president of the firm when Sam Katz moved to New York City to head the Publix Theatre division of Paramount Pictures. In 1936, Barney moved to New York City and became president of Paramount Pictures. He stayed on as president until 1964. The Balaban and Katz trademark is the property of the Balaban and Katz Historical Foundation.

He was the uncle of actor Bob Balaban.