Wynnie Melson

Written by Wynnie Melson

Published: 22 Jul 2025

30-facts-about-david-ellison
Source: Thewrap.com

Who is David Ellison? David Ellison is a name you might recognize from the world of film production. He is the founder and CEO of Skydance Media, a company known for producing blockbuster hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Star Trek." Born into a family with a rich Hollywood legacy, David is the son of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and the brother of film producer Megan Ellison. But there's more to him than just his famous last name. Did you know he’s also a licensed pilot and a former aerobatic pilot? From his early days in aviation to his current role in shaping Hollywood, David Ellison's journey is nothing short of fascinating. Let’s dive into 30 intriguing facts about this multi-talented producer.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

David Ellison's journey to becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry began with a fascinating early life. Here are some intriguing facts about his background.

  1. Born into Fame: David Ellison was born on January 9, 1983, in Santa Clara County, California. His father is Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle Corporation, making David no stranger to the world of high-profile business and technology.

  2. Siblings: He has a sister, Megan Ellison, who is also a notable film producer. Megan founded Annapurna Pictures, known for producing critically acclaimed films.

  3. Education: David attended the University of Southern California (USC), where he studied film production. This education laid the foundation for his future career in the film industry.

  4. Aviation Enthusiast: From a young age, David had a passion for aviation. He even earned his pilot's license at the age of 17, showcasing his diverse interests beyond film.

Career Beginnings

David's career in the entertainment industry took off with some notable early projects. Let's explore how he got started.

  1. First Film: His first major film project was "Flyboys" (2006), a World War I aviation drama. David not only produced the film but also performed many of the flying stunts himself.

  2. Skydance Media: In 2006, David founded Skydance Media, a production company that has since become a powerhouse in Hollywood. Skydance has produced numerous blockbuster films and TV shows.

  3. Collaborations: Early in his career, David collaborated with major studios like Paramount Pictures, helping to co-finance and produce big-budget films.

  4. Military Service: David served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, which further fueled his interest in military-themed films and projects.

Major Achievements

David Ellison's career is marked by significant achievements that have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

  1. Mission: Impossible Series: Skydance Media has been a key player in producing the "Mission: Impossible" film series, starring Tom Cruise. These films have been both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.

  2. Terminator Franchise: David played a crucial role in reviving the "Terminator" franchise with "Terminator Genisys" (2015) and "Terminator: Dark Fate" (2019).

  3. Top Gun: Maverick: One of his most anticipated projects is "Top Gun: Maverick," the sequel to the iconic 1986 film "Top Gun." David's passion for aviation made this project particularly special for him.

  4. Diverse Portfolio: Skydance Media has expanded beyond films to include television, animation, and interactive media, showcasing David's versatility as a producer.

Personal Life

David's personal life is as intriguing as his professional career. Here are some facts about his life outside of work.

  1. Marriage: David married actress Sandra Lynn Modic in 2011. The couple shares a love for the arts and entertainment industry.

  2. Philanthropy: He is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting various causes, including education and veterans' organizations.

  3. Hobbies: Besides aviation, David enjoys skiing, scuba diving, and other adventurous activities. His diverse interests reflect his dynamic personality.

  4. Residence: David and his family reside in Los Angeles, California, a hub for the entertainment industry.

Influence and Legacy

David Ellison's influence extends beyond his film projects. His contributions have left a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

  1. Innovative Storytelling: David is known for pushing the boundaries of storytelling, incorporating cutting-edge technology and visual effects into his projects.

  2. Mentorship: He actively mentors young filmmakers, helping to nurture the next generation of talent in the industry.

  3. Awards and Recognition: Over the years, David has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to film and television.

  4. Industry Impact: His work with Skydance Media has significantly impacted the way films are produced and financed in Hollywood.

Future Projects

David Ellison shows no signs of slowing down. Here are some exciting projects he has in the pipeline.

  1. The Old Guard 2: Skydance Media is set to produce the sequel to the hit Netflix film "The Old Guard," starring Charlize Theron.

  2. G.I. Joe: David is involved in the development of new "G.I. Joe" films, aiming to revitalize the beloved franchise.

  3. Star Trek: Skydance Media continues to work on expanding the "Star Trek" universe with new films and TV series.

  4. Animation Ventures: David is also exploring the world of animation, with several animated projects in development.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about David Ellison.

  1. Adrenaline Junkie: David has a penchant for extreme sports, including skydiving and bungee jumping.

  2. Film Buff: He is an avid film buff and enjoys watching classic movies in his spare time.

  3. Tech-Savvy: Growing up in a tech-savvy family, David has a keen interest in the latest technological advancements.

  4. Multilingual: He is fluent in multiple languages, including French and Spanish.

  5. Animal Lover: David is a passionate animal lover and supports various animal welfare organizations.

  6. Collector: He has an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, reflecting his lifelong love for aviation.

David Ellison: A Multifaceted Talent

David Ellison's journey through Hollywood and beyond is nothing short of fascinating. From his early days as a stunt pilot to becoming a powerhouse producer, he's shown versatility and determination. His work with Skydance Media has brought us some of the most memorable films and TV shows in recent years. Beyond entertainment, his philanthropic efforts and passion for aviation highlight a well-rounded individual committed to making a difference.

Ellison's story is a testament to following one's passions and pushing boundaries. Whether you're a film buff, aviation enthusiast, or someone who loves inspiring stories, David Ellison's life offers something for everyone. Keep an eye on his future projects; they're bound to be as exciting and impactful as his past work.

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