Episode 60: From Immigrant Roots to Oscar History: The story of Sev Ohanian

Описание: Sev Ohanian is an Armenian-American film producer from Glendale, California, and a proud Hoover High School alum. The son of immigrant parents, Sev’s journey into Hollywood began not with studio backing or representation, but with a deep love of movies and the drive to create. More than 20 years ago, he started by making YouTube videos—laying the foundation for a career built on persistence, storytelling, and belief in the long game.


Sev is the executive producer of the critically acclaimed film Sinners which has earned an extraordinary 16 Academy Award nominations. With this achievement, Sev made history as the first Armenian producer ever nominated for Best Picture—a milestone moment not only for his career, but for Armenian representation in Hollywood.


Known for championing bold, original voices at a time when the film industry is rapidly evolving, Sev has become a defining force behind the scenes—navigating the creative, logistical, and emotional complexity of bringing films to life, often without the traditional safety nets of representation early on.


Central to his journey is his partnership with his wife, Natalie Qasabian - a fellow producer whom Sev credits as his unlikely hustler and true partner in both life and work. Together, they exemplify collaboration, resilience, and the power of building something meaningful from the ground up.



Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sev's Journey

02:52 Early Career and Breakthroughs

11:55 Love and Partnership with Natalie

23:58 A Proposal Story to Remember

25:55 The Impact of a Supportive Partner

28:25 Navigating the Film Industry

46:29 The Future of Immigrants in Film




Guest

Sev Ohanian

Film Producer & Screenwriter

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Sev Ohanian | Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sevohanian?...


Sev Ohanian | Website
   / @btwithellina  





Host

Ellina Abovian | KTLA 5 News reporter, Armenian American storyteller, and proud single mom