From horrendous storms to climate change, Zimmett works tirelessly to make sure The Weather Channel is telling the full story. With the pandemic, her role pivoted to include maintaining the staff’s safety in the field and at HQ. Recent accomplishments include the launch of the first 24/7 streaming climate change AVOD channel, PATTRN, and a 31% year-over-year jump in time spent viewing the network last year. When it comes to gender bias on TV, Zimmett has seen a new focus on showcasing women of all ages. “There appear to be a lot more opportunities for women in their 40s, 50s and 60s to be the nuanced protagonists, such as in ‘Ted Lasso,’ ‘The Morning Show,’ ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and ‘Ozark,’” she says. “But we aren’t done yet.”
How would you rate the industry regarding gender bias in shows/characters?
I have definitely seen a new focus within the industry on selecting a slate of shows that offer more stories about powerful women, of all ages, rather than simply following the old Hollywood formula of young, pretty heroines and older women portrayed as “has beens” or stereotypical villains. There appear to be a lot more opportunities for women in their 40s, 50s and 60s to be the nuanced protagonists such as in ‘Ted Lasso,’ ‘The Morning Show,’ ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and ‘Ozark.’ Even documentaries and docuseries are branching out across the industry to include more stories of women who aren’t just the helpless ingenue. But we aren’t done yet. I would like to see the industry continue to invest in these kinds of projects and make sure that the stories of women of all ages and women of all ethnicities continue to be explored.
Do you have an example of male allyship that made a difference to you?
Having had mostly male bosses in my career, I think that the best ones have been able to give their direct reports, regardless of gender, the opportunity to carve their own paths and trust in their abilities. The best allies I have had have offered me the opportunities to take risks and, in some cases, make my own mistakes, without holding them against me in the long term.
