50. Rewriting History

Dan Davids
Title: President, The History Channel (U.S.)
Age: “is just a state of mind”
Years in Industry: 28
Years left in the industry: “Ad infinitum”

Why Him? Although The History Channel’s heavy slate of war documentaries and non-fiction series would seem tailor-made for men over 50, Davids wants you to know it’s not your father’s network. At least not his alone. Since taking the helm, Davids has been on a crusade to bring world history to a broader audience and attract a broader array of advertisers along the way. Inroads include licensing content to college programmer Zilo Networks, and teaming with the National Inventors Hall of Fame for an annual online contest to find the best modern invention. Davids is also extending the network’s definition of historical documentaries. This fall, History aired two programs about the “Star Trek” franchise, tied in with a live webcast on History.com of the Christie’s auction of items from the “Star Trek” TV series and films. Davids, it seems, is succeeding in rewriting History. - CAO

I knew the cable industry was for me when: “I met with Bill Bresnan 28 years ago (at TelePrompter) and he described both the business and the industry. That conversation inspired a love for cable that is as strong today as it was then.”
Defining career moment: “Launching The History Channel in 1995.”
Biggest cable surprise of 2006: “Tom Freston’s departure.”
Top personal achievement in 2006: “Achieving so many awards this year and for the first time winning three Primetime Emmys.”
In my free time, I like to: “Play golf.”
Favorite restaurant: Valentino's in Yonkers, NY
Favorite city: New York City
Favorite line from a movie or TV show: “Mr. Hart, here’s a dime; I suggest you call your mother and tell her there is grave doubt about you becoming a lawyer.” – Charles W. Kingsfield Jr. (John Houseman) to Timothy Bottoms' character, “The Paper Chase”
Favorite song: “New York Minute” - The Eagles
Favorite movie: “Scent of a Woman”
Favorite sports team: New York Yankees
I wish cable would: “Provide service to the balance of the homes that don’t get it.”
Favorite piece of tech: BlackBerry
The world would be a better place if: “We figure out a way to respect one another and understand each other’s respective positions, which will help us, learn to fit together and coexist in peace.”

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