What is your favourite Black TV show? Or your favourite Black talent in TV and why?
I’m a bit late to the party but I’m watching Issa Rae’s Insecure at the moment, that’s really good. The characters are multi-layered, funny, sassy and believable. I also liked We Are Black and British (BBC2) and Unapologetic (Channel 4) for challenging stereotypes and exploring different viewpoints. And I have to mention When They See Us (Netflix), as it’s such an important drama and astonishingly well made. I love Ava DuVernay.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The variety and the problem solving. My team works with so many different people, and every day brings a different challenge. We try to anticipate what’s coming and plan as much as possible, but there are always surprises and that’s what makes it fun. It helps that we love content too, of course.
What are your top tips for Black talent in TV to get ahead in the industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want, you’d be surprised how many people will listen if you speak up. It sounds obvious, but I think many of us have been so conditioned to expect less than we deserve, and by that I mean equal opportunities, that we don’t even try to get ahead. There are systematic issues that need addressing, but it’s important to believe in yourself too.