Directory Profile

Susan Arnold is an accomplished producer who joined the USC School of Cinematic Arts faculty in 2016. In 2019 she became Vice Chair of the Television and Production Division; and in 2024 she assumed the position of Chair of the department. Before coming to USC, Susan produced many films including the romantic comedy hits “13 Going On 30” starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo, “America’s Sweetheart” starring Julia Roberts, “Forces Of Nature” starring Sandra Bullock and Ben Affleck as well as the celebrated black comedy “Grosse Point Blank” starring John Cusack. Partnered with Judd Apatow she produced “Drillbit Taylor” starring Owen Wilson. Other produced credits include the box office hit, “The Haunting” starring Liam Neeson, Catherine Zeta Jones, Lily Taylor and Owen Wilson and the critically acclaimed “Unstrung Heroes” directed by Diane Keaton.  Susan’s producing debut was the offbeat comedy “Benny and Joon” starring Johnny Depp. Susan came to producing following a successful career as a Casting Director working independently and as a studio executive. She began her casting career working for Roger Corman on “Piranha” followed by Paramount’s hit movie “Airplane”.  It was at Paramount where she met the celebrated Casting Executive Marion Dougherty, who recruited Susan to join her as an Executive at Warner Brothers.