18 | THE SOLOIST
Josh Sapan
Title: President/CEO, AMC Networks
Years in Cable: 30-plusEducation: BA, Communication Arts, U of Wisconsin
Best Advice in 7 Words or Less: “The future ain’t what it used to be.” – Yogi Berra
Why Him? You could say Sapan had a busy 2011. After two decades building a basic cable powerhouse, he spun off the AMC, IFC, Sundance Channel, WEtv and IFC Films from Rainbow Media Holdings into a stand-alone company. His steadfast focus on quality original programming—the cornerstone of the AMC channels—continues to pay off in spades. The combined networks earned 31 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, more than any other basic cable group, and Sundance took home a Golden Globe for miniseries “Carlos.” AMC’s “The Walking Dead” has sprinted to become the top basic cable series in the 18-49 demo, and IFC is stretching its boundaries to become a home for alternative comedy.
Taking Stock: AMC Networks is now publicly traded on Nasdaq. The third quarter was its first reporting as an independent public company.
Year Ahead: Sapan will spend 2012 raising AMC Networks’ profile among distributors, advertisers and the financial community.
My favorite meal that I can prepare myself: Greek Omelette
The biggest innovation in cable over the last year has been: Authentication
Favorite “going out” town: Toronto
The one thing I tell my kids about success in life: “90 percent of life is half mental.” – Yogi Berra
My favorite vacation spot: Annual ski trips to Utah with my daughter. ?
