As our magazine was going to press, Blunt was transitioning to her new role at the NFL. She caught the League’s eye after most recently serving as president of the Urban Movie Channel. There, her revamped acquisition strategy and decisive marketing push increased subscriptions to the streaming network and generated solid viewership for original series “5th Ward” and “Monogamy.” She notes, “I am excited to see the number of women who are creating opportunities to share their content and open doors for other creatives. At UMC, I am very proud that many of our content creators are women.”
A February 2018 UCLA study revealed that of the 45 new scripted shows approved for 2017-18 across broadcast, cable and digital platforms, only four were from creators of color, all of whom were black. What is your reaction to this report?
The Hollywood Diversity Report is a critical data review of our industry. Over 40% of the U.S. population are people of color. The report reveals what we see as industry executives, though there is progress in certain areas with content creators like Ava DuVernay or Shonda Rhimes, there are still a vast majority of content creators of color who have a difficult time getting distribution on broadcast and/or digital platforms. As an industry, we must continue to address this issue and continuously speak out about the disparities.
What’s a recent example of a step forward for diversity in the industry?
As a female executive, I am excited to see the number of women who are creating opportunities to share their content and open doors for other creatives. Women such as Issa Rae, Lena Waithe, Geena Davis and many others are using their platforms to open doors for other women and people of color. At UMC, I am very proud that many of our content creators are women.
What’s your best advice to someone just entering the video content/distribution industry?
Attend industry events and conferences because they are an excellent way to meet executives and find partners.
If there were a reality show based on your office, what would it be called?
“Survivor” hahaha!
