Adam Bonnett
Adam Bonnett
Title: EVP, Original Programming, Disney Channels Worldwide
Years in Cable: 25
Education: NYU (Tisch School of the Arts)
One Word that Best Describes Me: Childlike
It takes a combination of creative inspiration and business acumen to steer the Disney train, and Bonnett is an agile conductor. In 2015 he led the teams that developed new series for Disney Channel and Disney XD, as well as crown jewels “Descendants” and “Teen Beach 2,” the network’s highly successful original movies. Look for more momentum this year, including the debut of a new series pilot from the creator of “Lizzie McGuire,” and Disney Channel’s 100th original movie, based on the “Adventures in Babysitting” franchise.
My first job: Assistant VP, talent relations & casting, at Nickelodeon for Rich Ross. I was unorganized and not good with details. The fact that Rich thought I’d make a good executive one day is a testament to his “vision.”
“Star Trek” celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. So if Mr. Spock’s motto is “Live Long and Prosper,” mine is… “If you stay at the party long enough, someone is bound to make you the host.” I love this quote and have used it in my professional career. It speaks to patience, persistence, and the idea that you will always come out on top, if you know it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
What was the last costume that you wore and why? Pee Wee Herman for Rob Lotterstein’s (executive producer, “K.C. Undercover”) birthday party. Rob is one of the smartest, funniest writers I know, so I needed a really good costume for his party. All I needed was the red bow tie.
New favorite binge: “Making a Murderer.” I couldn’t stop watching, and it’s a refreshing departure from what we do on Disney Channel.
Hover board, driverless car or drone: Drone. I care too much about my safety to get anywhere near the first two.
My typical breakfast is: Eaten at my desk.
My Starbucks order: Trenta Iced Coffee. I never knew it existed until about a year ago. I’m a lot more productive in 9am meetings now.
What should cable do to improve its image? I don’t think cable has an image problem. We are all trying to improve HOW we deliver programming to consumers, but you can’t deny the quality of content on cable.
My favorite hashtag is: #DESCENDANTS. We aired this tentpole event last summer and it still trends with repeats. Kids have just fallen in love with this unique world and characters and can’t get enough of it.
Best way to spend a Saturday night: Arclight Sherman Oaks or El Mirasol in Palm Springs.
My cable industry mentor and why: I’ve worked for Gary Marsh for over 18 years and I still learn something from him every day. There is nothing more exciting than when Gary gets behind a project or piece of talent that I bring him.
My personal theme song is: Making Our Dreams Come True, “Laverne & Shirley” theme song. It was my favorite show as a kid and I feel like it applies to my professional life and what I get to do for kids who watch and star in our shows.
Favorite vacation spot: Palm Springs. Every weekend.