In a significant move heralding a new chapter, Creative Cypher, the pioneering content collective founded by Troy Pryor, has appointed Cindy Beasley as its new President. This comes on the back of recent successes, including two Emmy nominations, three Telly Awards, and participation in major festivals. The appointment signals a strategic expansion for Creative Cypher, which is dedicated to uplifting underrepresented voices in film and television.
“Cindy is an outstanding leader, and I am incredibly grateful for the entire team,” said Pryor. “We’ve been collaborating for a while, and it’s crucial that everyone involved receives the recognition they deserve.”
Beasley, a veteran Chicago creative, brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having produced shows for some of Chicago’s most notable figures like former FOX Chicago News anchor Robin Robinson and Emmy Award-winning journalist Samantha Chatman.
“Being a part of something that both the city and culture need is a blessing,” Beasley remarked. “Creative Cypher is nurturing the next wave of creatives and entertainment thought leaders. With both structure and passion, I am eager to lead the way and elevate Chicago’s entertainment ecosystem to new heights.”
With over a decade in TV and media production, Beasley’s leadership skills have been honed through her work with companies like her own Morally Cinful Productions. Her ability to integrate logistics with creativity has been proven time and again. Joining her on the leadership team are Kyle Marshall, appointed as Chief Operations Officer, and Starr Gadson, stepping in as Chief Marketing Officer. Both have been longtime contributors to Creative Cypher.
As Creative Cypher embarks on this new journey, its flagship initiative, XL Fest, is set to expand further through a strategic partnership with TateMen Entertainment, solidifying its presence in Chicago. The festival has already drawn significant media attention and hosted entertainment icons such as Robert Townsend, Larenz Tate, Vivica Fox, Malcolm D. Lee, and Louis Carr, the new president of BET. With a burgeoning leadership team, Creative Cypher aims to extend its influence across the global festival scene, collaborating with industry titans like Robert Townsend and Lil’ Rel Howery in Chicago, XPO in London, and Parkway Social in Chicago.
Pryor remains the Chairman of Creative Cypher and maintains a dynamic presence on several boards including Soho House, SAG-AFTRA Chicago, Definition Theater, and more. After building the Cypher enterprise from the ground up, he is expanding his executive producer catalog, returning to his on-camera roots, and currently co-hosting radio alongside Gadson on “Connect the Starrs” airing on Rejoice 102.3 FM.
“The goal has always been elevation and avoiding founder syndrome,” said Pryor. “I launched Creative Cypher, because I saw a lack of growth from other organizations so it’s important that we practice what we preach. This is a natural progression in the ecosystem.”
