Elaine Frontain Bryant

A creative risk-taker, Bryant recently partnered with the WWE on “WWE’s Most Wanted Treasures” plus eight two-hour “Biography” specials about legendary wrestlers. She champions diversity, inclusiveness and equality throughout the industry, and helped create A&E’s Voices Magnified initiative. “We’ve come a long way, especially in the scripted world, in tackling the gender bias,” she says, citing the success of series including “The Queen’s Gambit,” “Hacks,” “The Crown” and “The Handmaid’s Tale.” “But I think there is still a lot of work that needs to be done behind the scenes to hire more female directors and creatives to ensure we are making shows that highlight the female experience in a nuanced way.”

How would you rate the industry regarding gender bias in shows/characters?
I think we have come a long way, especially in the scripted world, in tackling the gender bias. Shows like “The Queen’s Gambit,” “Hacks,” “The Crown” and “The Handmaid’s Tale” all saw so much success last year and focus on strong female leads, but I think there is still a lot of work that needs to be done behind the scenes to hire more female directors and creatives to ensure we are making shows that highlight the female experience in a nuanced way.

Best advice for someone looking to re-enter the workforce after a hiatus?
Lean on your mentors and relationships that you have built in the past. They will always be your guiding light and help bring you up to speed. They may also help foster new relationships that could be beneficial to your future.

Do you have an example of male allyship that made a difference to you?
Yes, my mentor, producer/director/excellent human Fred Berner is someone I can call for advice at any time.

What one female empowerment book do you think every woman should read?
“Rising Strong” by Brene Brown. If you have watched any of Brene Brown’s TED Talks or her Netflix special, this is a must read. Her work on courage, vulnerability, shame, and worthiness has sparked a global conversation that has been long overdue.

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