Alyssa Milano is set to keynote at MIPCOM Cannes’ annual Women in Global Entertainment Power Luncheon, co-hosted in association with A+E Networks. The Hollywood Reporter.
The Women in Global Entertainment Power Lunch will be held on October 17 at the Majestic Hotel.
“Alyssa is a great advocate for women and has been a strong voice and influence encouraging women in our industry,” said A+E Networks Senior VP International Marketing Melissa Madden. “I think she’s going to be incredibly inspiring. She’s going to tell her story and light the fire for all of us.”
Madden added that this year’s theme, “Stronger Together,” is about “connecting women and taking responsibility to help other women on their career paths. The room will be filled with women who have achieved success.” But we would also ask, ‘Who helped you?’ and ‘Who are you helping?’
This year, the WGE Power Lunch is celebrating its 10th anniversary at MIPCOM Cannes, which organizers say aims to re-promote diversity and inclusion throughout its conference program.
Milano will also present the inaugural Behind the Scenes Awards at the Diversify TV Excellence Awards presented by MIPCOM in association with founding presenting partner A+E Networks on October 19.
“The Women in Global Entertainment Power Lunch is more relevant than ever as it celebrates its 10th anniversary this year,” said MIPCOM Cannes Director Lucy Smith. “From her early advocacy of the #metoo movement, Alyssa has been a true catalyst for change and her impact has been significant. We are delighted to welcome her to Cannes for what I have no doubt will be an enlightening session. Thanks to Hoga and A+E Networks for putting on this amazing event with us.
In the keynote, Milano will open up about the major First Look deal she recently sealed with A+E Studios to write and develop the project for US and global audiences. A+E says its partnership with Milano reflects its long-standing mission to ensure women are represented behind and in front of the camera. That mission includes the “Broader Focus” initiative, an ongoing effort led by A+E’s Lifetime channel to promote the role of women in the industry.
“We continue to be encouraged by the results of our ‘Broader Focus’ initiative,” said Liz Soriano, Senior VP International Programming, A+E Networks. “Nearly 65% of the writers of our original films are women. 56% of our film directors are also women, while 50% of our executive producers are women. We are excited to expand the ‘broader focus’ to further support the next generation of women in the industry.
The 38th edition of MIPCOM Cannes, taking place October 17-20, is expected to attract more than 10,000 international television producers, buyers, commissioners and creators from more than 100 countries. More than 300 exhibiting studios and distributors are confirmed to participate in the market.