Mike Roggero

Roggero’s efforts in Fuse’s relaunch and the launch of the FM music network helped turn Fuse into the largest independent multicultural and largest Hispanic-targeted cable network. Digital initiatives such as expanded content, a mobile app, and a podcast network  made Fuse.tv a digital pop culture destination that continues to grow. “As viewing habits—particularly among multicultural and millennial audiences—continue to move towards mobile, the ability for networks to offer their programming over-the-top is essential,” Roggero says. “This will likely include OTT with a mix of authentication using cable subscription logins, along with programming created exclusively with digital viewers in mind.” How does this benefit cable? “The reality is that if viewers aren’t offered options that are in line with their consumption preferences, there’s a growing chance that they won’t be subscribers for long.”

What grade do you give the cable industry on diversity and why?
B-. While overall, the cable industry has done an exceptional job embracing and promoting diversity in its programming, and in industry efforts through the trade media and organizations like NAMIC, WICT and others, there is still much to be done.  Our society benefits most from a diverse media, and one that reflects not only our multicultural population but also a diversity of ideas and genres.

The technology that will most benefit cable over the next year is…
As viewing habits–particularly among multicultural and millennial audiences–continue to move towards mobile, the ability for networks to offer their programming over-the-top is essential.  This will likely include OTT with a mix of authentication using cable subscription logins, along with programming created exclusively with digital viewers in mind.  How does this benefit cable?  The reality is that if viewers aren’t offered options that are in line with their consumption preferences, there’s a growing chance that they won’t be subscribers for long.

What television show/s – cable or broadcast – best embrace diversity?
The best example is probably the Summer Olympics.  Watching the parade of nations in Rio, despite all of the issues that have been in the headlines leading up to the Games, one is able to sit back and marvel at the fact that this event brings people from all around the world, of all backgrounds, together for a common goal and around common interests.  When diversity is viewed through the prism of such a celebration, everyone wins.  Entertainment programming should take note.