December 1, 2008

CableFAX: 63. Green T(LC): Eileen O’Neill

Eileen O’Neill
Title: Pres/GM, TLC
Age: Younger than my twin
Education: Enough

Why Her? One of cable’s lowest-key but most effective execs, hard-working O’Neill left Planet Green shortly after launching it with Leonardo DiCaprio, Emeril, Tommy Lee and Adrian Grenier to assume the TLC post. Now, the Discovery vet (she started as an unpaid intern) has the Herculean tasks of redefining TLC and improving ratings. So far, so good. Buoyed by top-rated reality series Jon & Kate Plus Eight, TLC posted in Oct its highest Mon-night delivery since Sept ’03 for total viewers (2.3mln), HHs (1.8mln), women 25-54 (919K) and women 18-49 (977K).

Worth Watching: Whether O’Neill can revive TLC, an established net that lacks Planet Green’s freshness and a standout series.

The Year Ahead:
Tough time for a channel resuscitation.

Green Wish for Cable: Everyone gets CableFAX on email

Should Dodgers Re-Sign Manny Ramirez? Hell, yes

Favorite Food: Grilled cheese

Favorite Restaurant: Jakes of Lewis, DE

Drink of Choice: Sprite Zero

Last Book Read: Valerie Bertinelli

Fave Show Not on TLC: Dexter

Worst Part of My Job: Traveling

Cable’s Biggest Challenge: The economy

Best Business Advice Received: Don’t become a waitress

My Company Is Preparing For The Future By: Investing in content

Favorite Word: Sextuplets, twins is second favorite

Least Favorite Word: Nice

Trait I Most Admire in People: Competitiveness

Sports Teams: Dodgers and Patriots

CH /SA

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