Kathleen Finch, the outgoing head of U.S. networks at Warner Bros. Discovery, has a message for her colleagues in the television industry: stop using the word “cable.”
Speaking at Content London, Finch emphasized that the focus should be on creating compelling content, regardless of the platform where it’s consumed. “What we do is content,” she stated per a report from Variety. “And where it’s viewed is where the audience chooses to find it.”
Finch, who is set to retire at the end of the year, believes that the term “cable” is limiting and outdated. She encourages industry professionals to think of themselves as creatives who produce content for a variety of platforms, whether linear or streaming.
“Cable” vs. “Content”
Finch acknowledged that millions of people in the U.S. still rely on cable television, making it a profitable business for the foreseeable future. However, she stressed that the industry needs to adapt to changing viewing habits and embrace a multi-platform approach.
“Is the cable business going to grow? No, of course not,” Finch admitted. “But it’s not going to go away in the near future.” She prefers to characterize the cable business as “slowing, but not dead.”
Content is King, Regardless of Platform
Finch cited the success of shows like TLC’s “90 Day Fiancé” as an example of how content can find new audiences on streaming platforms. The show attracts a diverse viewership, with older audiences tuning in on linear television and younger viewers discovering it on Max.
“What we’re getting is the opportunity to build a brand new audience that is just as passionate as the cable audience,” Finch explained.
Passing the Torch
Finch expressed confidence in her successor, Channing Dungey, who currently serves as Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group. She described Dungey as “terrific” and believes she will excel in her new role overseeing U.S. networks.
As Finch prepares to bid farewell to the industry, her message is clear: focus on creating exceptional content and let the audience decide where they want to watch it. The future of television lies in embracing a multi-platform approach and recognizing that “cable” is just one piece of the puzzle.