The Los Angeles 2028 Organizing Committee has announced the appointment of audiovisual executive Peter Rice as the new head of ceremonies and content for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. He is the first major Hollywood executive to take on this role within the Olympic movement, a decision that reinforces LA28‘s commitment to integrating cinematic narratives into the heart of the sporting spectacle.

Rice will serve as executive producer for the opening and closing ceremonies, which will take place at two of the city’s most iconic venues: the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and the 2028 Stadium.

A leading figure for an iconic city

With a track record that includes overseeing more than 300 programs and more than 4,000 hours of content per year in television, film, and digital platforms, Rice has contributed to projects that have garnered 51 Oscar nominations, 42 Golden Globe nominations, and 293 Emmy nominations. His experience will be key to connecting the Games with new audiences in an ever-evolving media environment.

“Peter is one of those exceptional figures who combines creativity, operational vision, and production excellence. He is the ideal profile to redefine the way ceremonies are delivered in the digital age and leave a mark that goes beyond the Games,” said Casey Wasserman, president of LA28.

Ceremonies with a taste of Olympic legacy

Rice will be responsible for designing and producing the four official ceremonies of the event: the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. In his own words, he takes on the challenge with pride: “Los Angeles is a global beacon of entertainment, culture, and diversity. I am honored to be able to create ceremonies that honor the legacy of the Coliseum and celebrate the future of 2028 Stadium.”

The Olympic opening ceremony, on July 14, 2028, will be shared between both venues, and the closing ceremony will take place at the Coliseum on July 30. Subsequently, the Paralympic Games will make their debut on August 15 at the 2028 Stadium and will conclude on August 27 at the Coliseum, shaping the first Paralympic cycle held in Los Angeles.

From Fox to Disney, and now to LA28

Rice began his career at 20th Century Fox in 1989, rising steadily through the ranks to become president of 21st Century Fox in 2017. Following Disney’s acquisition of the company, he was named president of Walt Disney Television and chief entertainment officer at The Walt Disney Company.