13 | FLYING HIGH
Abbe Raven
Title: President/CEO, A&E Networks
Years in Cable: 29
Education: BA, University of Buffalo; MA, Hunter College
Best Advice in 7 Words Or Less: Slow and steady wins the race.
Why Her? After logging its highest-ever adult ratings in 2010, A&E kicked off 2011 with a lockdown as the No. 4 cable network 25-54, while the company’s History was No. 2 18-49. Raven continues to innovate, overseeing the return of 11 A&E shows and 10 new series by year-end. With “Pawn Stars,” “Storage Wars” and “American Pickers,” her A&E portfolio has three of the top five shows in cable.
High Praise: As a former teacher, Raven is passionate about education. This year, at a White House dinner, First Lady Michele Obama heralded her commitment to mentoring young women.
Year Ahead: Raven is focusing on roping in younger viewers with original programming, and she’s off to a good start. Year-to-date, 77% of A&E’s primetime lineup is original. Lifetime also is working toward a turnaround, with three returning franchises logging their best ratings ever—“Project Runway,” “Drop Dead Diva” and “Army Wives.” In addition, History is looking to expand in India.
Favorite meal I can also prepare myself: Eggplant parmigiana
Favorite restaurant: Barbuto
Favorite “going out” town: New York
One thing I tell my kids about success in life: It takes hard work, passion and drive.
Favorite Starbucks order: Decaf skim sugar-free vanilla latte
Bands I would actually see live: Bruce Springsteen
Favorite sports team: NY Yankees
Favorite vacation spots: Nantucket, Vermont, Costa Rica
Favorite iPad app: Words with Friends
Guilty TV pleasure: “The Good Wife,” “Private Practice” ?
