Lauren Gellert
EVP, Development & Original Programming, WE TV
Gellert’s vision fuels many of WE tv’s most successful shows. She leads the network’s efforts in finding fresh unscripted originals, and oversees development and production of shows that explore personalities and relationships fueled by purpose and passion. Her work is paying off. The network had its best year in 2015, growing its African-American viewership on Thursdays and focusing on reality TV on Fridays. Gellert also wooed Patti Stanger over to WE for the series “Million Dollar Matchmaker,” and she developed “My Life is a Telenovela,” in partnership with Telemundo. “I take particular pride in my field of original programming, where women are leading the charge at numerous cable networks,” she says.
Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality? Which could use some enlightenment?
I take particular pride in my field of original programming, where women are leading the charge at numerous cable networks. I admire these women not only for their smart decision making, but also for their willingness to support and share with one another as we all often do. Talented executives such as Elaine Frontain Bryant from A&E, Sharon Levy from Spike TV, Liz Gateley from Lifetime, Didi O’Hearn from Food Network, Nena Rodrigue from BBC AMERICA, and Zola Mashariki from BET are perfect examples of this growing group of powerhouses. Also, there are incredible women running networks including our own Jennifer Caserta of IFC and Sarah Barnett of BBC America.
What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?
Embrace people’s differences and seek diversity. Everyone that you come across brings something unique to the table, and that will ultimately help you understand and provide a broader view of the world you wish to effect
What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?
This is the year of disparate audience viewing habits. According to Nielsen, total media consumption is at an all-time high and continues to increase among viewers. Audience measurement needs to evolve to reflect how and when programming is being consumed across ALL platforms.
