Born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Garry Hood was exposed to the world of production at a young age while accompanying his father, a radio sports announcer, to work. Focusing on a career in journalism, he majored in mass communication at Middle Tennessee State University and aspired to be a White House correspondent. As part of his curriculum, he dabbled in radio broadcasting and television and film production, discovering his aptitude for and enjoyment of the behind-the-scenes television production. Abandoning a career in journalism, he was hired at Nashville’s WZTV after graduation, where he held various positions, including camera operator. Though his big break came when he was hired as a cue-card holder on Hee Haw, his career as a stage manager took off after he met and impressed musical and variety director Marty Pasetta. He soon began a 25-plus year tenure stage managing live television, including the Academy Awards.
Hood has since stage managed countless awards shows, variety programs, TV specials, game shows, and reality series, including the Emmys, Grammys, Country Music Awards, Kennedy Center Honors, Olympic opening ceremonies, Super Bowl Halftime shows, Hairspray Live! (2016) and Dancing with the Stars. He has also worked alongside legendary directors such as Walter Miller, George Stevens Jr., Louis J. Horvitz, Don Mischer and Gil Cates.
As an active member of the Guild, Hood has served on the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council as council member, secretary/treasurer, 2nd vice chairperson and as 1st vice chairperson from 2001 to 2016. He has also served as a Negotiating Committee member three times.
Hood has been a member of the Guild since 1978.