In 2017, the entertainment industry experienced a seismic shift. It was a year of reckoning, resilience, and revolution, as women in Hollywood not only broke barriers but also redefined what it meant to lead in a traditionally male-dominated industry. The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100 list for 2017 celebrated these trailblazers—women who wielded influence, created groundbreaking content, and championed diversity and inclusion. This article delves into the achievements of these remarkable individuals and their lasting impact on the entertainment landscape.
A Year of Transformation
The 2017 Power 100 list came at a pivotal moment in Hollywood’s history. The #MeToo movement was gaining momentum, exposing systemic issues of harassment and inequality within the industry. Against this backdrop, the women on the Power 100 list stood as beacons of change, using their platforms to advocate for accountability, equity, and empowerment.
The Power Squad: Leading the Charge
At the heart of the 2017 list was the “Power Squad,” a group of 18 elite female creatives and industry leaders whose contributions had an outstanding impact on entertainment. These women included:
- Shonda Rhimes: The mastermind behind Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal, Rhimes continued to dominate television with her storytelling prowess and commitment to diverse representation.
- Ava DuVernay: As a director and producer, DuVernay broke new ground with projects like Queen Sugar and 13th, highlighting social justice issues and amplifying underrepresented voices.
- Patty Jenkins: Jenkins made history as the director of Wonder Woman, a film that shattered box office records and proved the commercial viability of female-led superhero movies.
These women, along with others like Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Kathleen Kennedy, exemplified the power of creativity and leadership in shaping the industry.
Breaking Barriers in Film and Television
The Power 100 list also highlighted women who excelled in film and television production, distribution, and marketing. Among them were:
- Victoria Alonso: As the executive vice president of physical production at Marvel Studios, Alonso played a key role in the success of blockbuster hits like Thor: Ragnarok and Spider-Man: Homecoming.
- Cindy Holland: Netflix’s vice president of original content, Holland spearheaded the streaming giant’s expansion into original programming, overseeing critically acclaimed series like Stranger Things.
These leaders not only delivered commercial success but also pushed for greater representation and inclusion in their projects.
The Stars Who Shone Bright
The list celebrated actresses who used their influence to drive change both on and off-screen. Jennifer Lawrence, for instance, spoke candidly about pay equity and the challenges women face in Hollywood. Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Wonder Woman became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring audiences worldwide and redefining the role of women in action films.
Agents of Change
Behind the scenes, agents, managers, and executives played a crucial role in shaping the careers of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Women like Maha Dakhil and Hylda Queally, who represented top talent at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), demonstrated the importance of advocacy and mentorship in fostering success.
A Legacy of Leadership
The 2017 Women in Entertainment Power 100 list was more than a celebration of individual achievements—it was a testament to the collective power of women in transforming Hollywood. These leaders not only excelled in their respective fields but also paved the way for future generations of women to thrive in the entertainment industry.
by The Hollywood Reporter
