Melissa Harper

SVP, Production, Original Programming Production, Starz Entertainment

Harper lists the Rogers Ailes saga at Fox News as the top story of the year, saying it sends “a strong message about gender equality.” At Starz, she oversees the physical production of all Starz original content produced worldwide and is proud of the female roles in many of the network’s series. That gives her oversight of the net’s top series, including “Power,” “Outlander” and “Black Sails.” Harper’s production work has taken her around the globe, from New Zealand to South Africa to Belgium, the U.K. and more.

What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?

Don’t take things too seriously – nothing is ever as important as it seems in the moment.

Which current programming best reflects the kind of women’s roles you like to see and why?

I’m incredibly proud of the female roles on many of our Starz series.  We have a track record of stories that are anchored by women, and with characters that are strong, independent, and multidimensional.  I also enjoy that as a premium cable network we can explore the female experience with more candor, which adds authenticity to the storytelling.

What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?

I think the demise of Roger Ailes has sent a strong message about gender equality.  As consolidation in the media continues, it underscores the importance of creating and maintaining a harassment-free environment from the top down.