Biography
James "Jim" Yukich is a television and film director with experience spanning variety and comedy specials, live concerts, music videos, talk shows, and movies. He earned a BA in Film/TV from Purdue University's Brian Lamb School of Communication in 1978. Beginning his career in the mailroom at Capitol-EMI Records in Hollywood, he advanced to become a staff Director, Editor, and Producer. After departing EMI, he established Split Screen Inc. and later FYI, an independent Film/TV production company, where he directed over 500 music videos, concerts, commercials, and TV shows.
His film credits include the theatrical release A Fare to Remember (1999) and Double Dragon (1994), a Universal Pictures film. He has directed comedy specials for notable performers such as Dennis Miller, Paul Reiser, Garry Shandling, Bill Maher, Katt Williams, Chelsea Handler, Martin Lawrence, Bruce Willis, Mo'Nique, Don Novello, and Bob Einstein.
In 1990, he co-created the Billboard Music Awards for FOX TV, directing and producing the show for its first four years.
Jim directed more than 1,500 episodes of the late-night talk show Chelsea Lately (2007) over seven years, as well as over 60 episodes of Entertainment Tonight (1981) within six months.
Continuing his work in music specials, he has directed and edited performances by artists including Jeff Beck, Shawn Mendes, Def Leppard, Fall Out Boy, and many others.
His accolades include three ACE Awards, 15 MTV Award nominations, five Grammy nominations, and two Grammy wins.
