Naketha Maddocks
As the motivating force behind the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise, Mattocks knows what the teen and ‘tween demographic craves. New projects include the TV movies “Zapped,” and “How to Build a Better Boy.” While TV movies are her bailiwick, Mattocks loves miniseries: “I grew up on them and I’m so glad they’re back. It’s a great opportunity to see interesting and diverse stories from talent that wouldn’t always do television.” Could a Disney miniseries be far behind?
What’s the definition of diversity in 2014, and how can the cable industry do better in the area of inclusiveness?
For me, diversity is defined as ensuring that the stories we tell and the people we hire (in front of and behind the camera) authentically reflect the world today. I believe the industry could do better in the area of inclusiveness if everyone thought this way.
What’s been your company’s biggest innovation this year?
If I could only choose one, I would say Disney’s MagicBand. It just makes the park experience that much more convenient and enjoyable. It’s icing on the cake.
Who has been your strongest mentor, and why?
I am lucky enough to have quite a few mentors. If I remove my parents from the equation, I would go with Paula Weinstein and Len Amato. They gave me a chance and provided an amazing foundation for the career I have now. So many of the things they taught me when I first started in the business I still implement to this day and I try to pass that same knowledge along.
What qualities do you look for when making a new hire?
Traits I look for – intellectual and emotional intelligence, a strong and clear point of view (even if I don’t agree with it), determination, integrity, work ethic, ambition and a sense of humor. I know, not much. Ha.
Name one emerging trend in cable we should all have our eyes on.
It’s not emerging but already here – the return of the miniseries. I grew up on them and I’m so glad they’re back. It’s a great opportunity to see interesting and diverse stories from talent that wouldn’t always do television. I would love to figure one out for our audience but clearly it would need to be very special.
