It’s been nothing but growth for TLC under Lee’s leadership. In 2019, the net was the fastest growing ad-supported cable net in prime with both P and W25-54, W18-49 and P2+, and is currently the No 1 ad-supported cable net in W25-54/18-49/18-34 in 2020. Led by the “90 Day Fiancé” franchise, which Lee spearheaded the expansion of during the COVID-19 crisis, TLC claimed the number one spot in all key demos on both Sunday and Monday nights. Lee also co-chairs Discovery’s internal diversity initiative working to increase diversity in front and behind the camera. “I’ve been intentional about building a diverse team—diverse in race, gender, thought and background. It stokes creativity, and it’s the right thing to do,” he says.
The conversation about racial injustice in 2020 has been… a good start and a glimmer of hope. I’m optimistic that through this latest string of horrific tragedies, the focus on allyship has gained momentum and real conversations are taking place.
In what ways can companies best show a sincere commitment to diversity and inclusion?
As content creators, we need to make programming that reflects all of our viewers.
What initiatives in our industry best embrace diversity?
Any initiative that helps people of color at all levels to break into and advance in our industry.
How have you been a champion of diversity & inclusion in your professional life?
I’ve been intentional about building a diverse team—diverse in race, gender, thought and background. It stokes creativity, and it’s the right thing to do. I’m also proud to co-chair Discovery’s internal diversity initiative to put more people of color in front of and behind the camera.
Which current shows (on linear and streaming) best embrace diversity?
I’m biased of course but I’m really proud of the diversity on our own air at TLC. From “90 Day Fiancé,” which I think is the most diverse show on television, to our new series about a Black family from Las Vegas named the Derricos with 14 beautiful children (four sets of multiples!) to “I Am Jazz”, which showcases the life of a young trans woman. “Pose” also does a wonderful job of speaking to the Black trans experience in the 80s. It seems like everyone’s watching “Indian Matchmaking” these days. It’s a sign of how far we’ve come that there are so many great examples to cite.
