Lori Lynem

Lynem negotiates above-the-line development for Syfy, E!, Bravo Media and co-production deals with domestic and foreign studios for scripted and unscripted programming. This year, she closed several format license deals for foreign properties. As a member of the Corporate Counsel Women of Color, an international networking group of attorneys, she is an effective role model who mentors young attorneys, college students and members of other legal organizations. She’s aware her mentees face future challenges. “There are still not enough diverse writers, directors, showrunners and below the line talent working on shows,” Lynem maintains.

What grade do you give the cable industry on diversity and why?
I give the cable industry a B- in diversity because there is still work to be done with including more diverse talent in the cast and behind the scenes. There still are not enough diverse writers, directors, showrunners and below the line talent working on shows.

The technology that will most benefit cable over the next year is…
I believe social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, will help the cable industry in terms of access to shows and marketing/promoting shows to general and specific markets.

What television show/s – cable or broadcast – best embrace diversity?
I believe the best display of diversity on cable are “Power” and “Underground.” On broadcast, I believe they do the best in terms of diversity, especially with the following show: “Blackish,” “Fresh Off the Boat,” “The Office,” “Parks and Recreation,” “How to Get Away with Murder” and “Scandal.”