YouTube is making big, bold steps into original content, and the company in 2015 wisely snapped up Daniels, former MTV programming president to lead the charge. Now that a galaxy of YouTube stars have proven the platform’s potency, big-name talent both behind and in front of the camera are at work developing content under the YouTube Red banner. Daniels is proud of YouTube’s efforts to hire a diverse pool of creators and says, “Increasing diversity is something all of us in Hollywood can do better. But it must become a priority and made a conscious effort—it just doesn’t ‘happen.’”
Who is your favorite current female TV character and why?
Selina Meyer on “Veep,” because any character portrayed by the talented Julia Louis Dreyfus is my favorite!
What is one way the industry can continue to evolve in ridding itself of gender discrimination?
Take chances on women and diverse talent! Insist on hiring them, or it doesn’t happen. YouTube has always taken pride in the diversity of content on our platform—not just in terms of breadth but also in making sure that the people in front of and behind the camera are diverse as well. That’s something that I’ve insisted on my entire career. Our diverse slate of YouTube Red Originals features projects like “Step Up: High Water” and “This is Everything: Gigi Gorgeous,” and we make it a point to find female showrunners and directors and place women in lead roles—in front of and behind the camera. I know increasing diversity is something all of us in Hollywood can do better. But it must become a priority and made a conscious effort—it just doesn’t “happen”.
Best advice for relieving stress?
Shoe Shopping; do not underestimate what a new pair of Stuart Weitzman boots can do for you.
