Michelle Wilson

Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer, WWE

Wilson’s efforts to draw new subscribers to the WWE Network and broaden its overall reach are paying off. Thanks to her innovative approach, WWE is the fastest-growing digital subscription service around, and the first to deliver round-the-clock streaming via OTT distribution. To boot, its weekly “SmackDown,” a USA Network staple, switched to live broadcasts this year. In all, USA now airs five hours of live WWE programming per week. As a female executive at a network centered on what some may view as male-oriented entertainment, few would argue with which TV character Wilson admires. “Daenerys Targaryen from ‘Game of Thrones.’ She’s a strong female leader,” Wilson says.

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

Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want.

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

Daenerys Targaryen from “Game of Thrones.” She’s a strong female leader.

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

Disney’s billion-dollar stake in MLBAM and its impact on ESPN.