Anne Sweeney
Suffice it to say Ben Sherwood has some big shoes to fill. As Sweeney departs the Mouse House after 18 years at the company, her legacy shines brightly. Her “closing credits” would fill dozens of screens, but to name a few: Under Sweeney’s guidance, ABC became the first network to offer shows online way back in 2005. She also built ABC Family into a top cable network, and steered Disney Channel to become the youth programming powerhouse it is today. Sweeney oversaw Disney’s equity interest in A+E Nets, Hulu and others, and her division had more than a small hand in parent Disney’s stock hitting an all-time high in March. Exactly how and when she’ll take her talents behind the camera remains to be seen. In the meantime, the industry will be waiting.
How can cable do better job at supporting the industry’s women?
To really succeed, working women need sponsors who not only give support, advice, and encouragement, but also provide opportunities.
What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?
The proposed mergers of Comcast and Time Warner, and AT&T and DirecTV could have a significant impact on the cable industry.
Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?
Forget about balance and live your life in a way that is important to you.
