Protecting Steve’s honor

When I first joined Apple as a designer, I knew I’d be stepping into a world of innovation, creativity, and challenge. However, what I hadn’t anticipated was the profound personal responsibility I’d bear in relation to our iconic leader, Steve Jobs. My role evolved to include an unexpected facet: overseeing the real media depiction licensing of Steve’s name and image.

The public’s fascination with Steve was tangible. His influence stretched far beyond Apple’s Cupertino facilities, making him a global icon. With that came the inevitable flood of requests, some legitimate and many not, to use his name and likeness in various forms of media. Every day brought a new challenge: from filmmakers seeking approval for biopics, to authors wanting to pen unauthorized biographies, to merchants aiming to produce merchandise bearing his face.

Being at the forefront of these requests meant more than just navigating legal waters; it meant preserving the authenticity and integrity of a man who was both a visionary leader and a deeply private individual. Steve wasn’t just the face of Apple; he was its heart and soul. Ensuring that every portrayal or use of his name was accurate and respectful wasn’t merely a professional obligation; it was personal.

Over the years, the trust Steve placed in me grew. I wasn’t just processing data; I was safeguarding the legacy of a man who had changed the world. It wasn’t about vanity but about ensuring the truth wasn’t overshadowed by sensationalism and falsehood.

In the end, we weren’t just designing products; we were preserving the dignity of a family member whose influence would be felt for generations to come.