Joy Rosen, the co-founder and CEO of Toronto-based production, distribution, and animation company Portfolio Entertainment, has died at the age of 65. She passed away on June 8 after battling illness for a year.
Joy Rosen Died
Rosen, alongside her business partner Lisa Olfman, transformed Portfolio Entertainment into a leading company in the kids and family entertainment industry. Under her leadership, the company developed enduring relationships with international broadcasters and content providers. Rosen’s significant contributions to the business community and her dedication to the industry will be remembered.
The Legacy of Joy Rosen
Joy Rosen and Lisa Olfman founded Portfolio Entertainment in 1991, starting the company from a spare bedroom with determination and a borrowed typewriter. Through their vision and hard work, they turned the company into a prominent production, distribution, and animation powerhouse, specializing in kids and family entertainment. Rosen played a pivotal role in leading the company’s global distribution division, establishing strong relationships with international broadcasters and content providers.
Additionally, Rosen’s foresight led to the launch of Portfolio Animation in 2015, a state-of-the-art animation studio that further expanded the company’s capabilities. Her passion for the industry and dedication to providing high-quality content for children and families contributed to the success of Portfolio Entertainment.
Recognition and Achievements
According to Deadline News, Joy Rosen’s significant contributions to the business world and the entertainment industry were recognized and celebrated. Alongside Lisa Olfman, she received numerous accolades, including the 2015 WIFT-T Crystal Award for Outstanding Achievement in Business. The duo also received the Rotman Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award and were featured in Profit Magazine’s Top 100 Female Business Owners list. Animation Magazine recognized Rosen and Olfman among its Top 25 Rising Women in the Business, further acknowledging their impact and influence in the industry.
Remembering Joy Rosen
Joy Rosen’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the business community. Her partner and co-CEO, Lisa Olfman, described Rosen as not only her business partner but also her best friend and sister-in-arms. Rosen’s legacy will be cherished, and her impact on Portfolio Entertainment will be enduring.
Those who knew Rosen will remember her for her tremendous heart, wicked sense of humor, and unwavering optimism. Her dedication to the industry and her ability to bring joy to children and families through Portfolio Entertainment’s productions will continue to resonate. Rosen is survived by her husband of 39 years, Dr. Lawrence Freedman, her children Erin, Michaela, and Evan Freedman, her mother Delores Rosen, and extended family members.
In honoring Joy Rosen’s legacy, her contributions to the entertainment industry and her indomitable spirit will continue to inspire those in the business community and beyond.
