Cable Center Hall of Fame 2013 Honorees – The Contribution of James P. Mooney III

James P. Mooney III

We took some time to ask the Cable Center’s Hall of Famers about their experiences in the industry. The following is a Q&A about the late James P. Mooney III, formerly Principal and Managing Partner JLM Partners, answered by his wife and JLM Partners CEO Louise Mooney.

What do you think Jim’s proudest professional accomplishment was?

The professionalism and long-term success of his staff, and the reputation of the NCTA (as well as JLM Partners) were his proudest professional accomplishments.

What was it about cable that attracted him and kept him interested for so long?

Jim believed in the potential of cable, and he loved being part of that creation. He took great pride in the evolution of the industry that created C-SPAN, Cable in the Class Room, stellar original programming, and multiple news outlets. It is hard to remember that when he joined, we were fighting battles like, “Will people pay for television? Isn’t there enough with the broadcast networks? Why do we need more?”  He believed cable could make a difference in people’s lives, and that it has.

You weren’t just his wife. You worked alongside him. What do you think would surprise people about Jim?

Actually, few know that he was a very good rapper.  On the work front, he had a reputation for “not suffering fools gladly,” but he was one of the best bosses I had ever seen. He fought for the best benefit packages, the best budgets and defended his staff always, and nobody was thrown under the bus.

People often say that cable is a very friendly, connected industry. Did you hear much from folks in the industry after he passed away?

James, his son, and I have a been overwhelmed by the support from friends and associates. We feel very blessed to have an amazing group of very special supporters.

Jim’s induction was announced shortly before he passed.  Did he have a reaction to the news?
 
He was deeply touched. When it was announced in November, he had a wonderful opportunity to talk to so many dear people that truly mattered to him. We think that was very special.