Diane Riley, the New York theatrical agent who rose from an assistant’s position to become a partner at Harden Curtis Kirsten Riley, has died at 52.
Riley died September 16 in Asbury Park, New Jersey, following complications from surgery, according to Deadline’s report. Her family and agency announced her death after a period of health problems that had worsened in recent months.
Her career in representation spanned nearly three decades. She joined Harden Curtis Associates in 1997, initially assisting founders Mary Harden and Nancy Curtis before becoming an agent. Twenty years later, she and Michael Kirsten were appointed partners, and the agency adopted the name Harden Curtis Kirsten Riley.
Before entering the agency business, Riley worked in Connecticut as an assistant company manager at Goodspeed Opera House. She subsequently gained casting experience at Carnahan Casting/Roundabout Theatre Company.
Her clients included Lisa Emery, Curtiss Cook, Andy Mientus, Christiane Noll and Thom Sesma. A memorial announcement published by BroadwayWorld remembered her commitment to performers, describing an agent who traveled to support clients in regional productions and celebrated their professional achievements.
Born in Indianapolis and raised in Orlando, Florida, Riley attended Dr. Phillips High School. Her interest in the performing arts developed early and became the foundation of her working life.
Beyond her agency responsibilities, she served as vice president of the board of the National Association of Talent Representatives. She also participated in the theater community’s annual softball games between agents and casting directors.
A celebration of her life was scheduled for October 30 at Manhattan’s New World Stages, with friends, clients and colleagues invited to honor her memory.
Riley is survived by her husband, DJ McDermott; her father, Gary Riley; and her brother, Evan Riley.