Jana Henthorn
President & CEO, The Cable Center
By any measure, 2016 has been Henthorn’s year. Her promotion to president and CEO of The Cable Center came as the organization is repositioning itself to better reflect the changing industry without forgetting its role as a steward of cable’s history and legacy. One method Henthorn is excited about? A virtual reality exhibit she likens to the “holodeck” made famous on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” “It’s OK to be a nerd,” says Henthorn, who is also seeking creative ways to boost revenue for the center. “Loving school isn’t a bad thing. It makes you more interesting when you are older.”
What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?
It’s OK to be a nerd. Loving school isn’t a bad thing. It makes you more interesting when you are older.
Which current programming best reflects the kind of women’s roles you like to see and why?
I still believe we have a ways to go on programming that reflects positive women’s roles, especially those of diverse backgrounds. However, I would love to see Danai Gurira’s character Michonne from AMC’s “Walking Dead” transported into the world of 18th century Scotland to overthrow the British with Claire Fraser, portrayed by Caitriona Balfe, on Starz’s “Outlander.” Both Michonne and Claire are clever and powerful characters that present viewers with an alternative idea of what a ‘strong woman’ looks like.
What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?
Innovation. Despite changes in the industry, cable continues to not only adapt to change, but stay ahead of the curve. The launch of DOCSIS 3.1 is a perfect example. Personally, I’m enthusiastic about the invention and continued evolution of Comcast/ Xfinity’s X1 box. I upgraded to the new system this year and am LOVING the voice-activated guide.
