Ted Harbert

Ted Harbert is an American media executive. He is the former chairman of NBC Broadcasting and the former CEO of Comcast Entertainment Group.

Harbert has been credited with overseeing the development of some of NBC's most successful shows, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER". He also played a key role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC. During his tenure at Comcast, Harbert oversaw the acquisition of NBCUniversal by Comcast. He is currently the chairman of the board of directors of Lionsgate.

Harbert is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the Harvard Business School. He began his career in television as a production assistant at NBC. He later worked as a producer and executive producer on a number of shows before being named president of NBC Entertainment in 1998. He was promoted to chairman of NBC Broadcasting in 2004 and left the company in 2011.

Ted Harbert

Ted Harbert is an American media executive who has held various leadership positions in the television industry. He is best known for his work as the former chairman of NBC Broadcasting and the former CEO of Comcast Entertainment Group.

Early career: Production assistant at NBC
Key roles: President of NBC Entertainment, Chairman of NBC Broadcasting
Notable achievements: Oversaw the development of "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER"
Industry impact: Played a key role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC
Leadership style: Known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail
Current role: Chairman of the board of directors of Lionsgate
Education: University of Pennsylvania, Harvard Business School

Harbert's career in television spans over four decades. He has been involved in the development and production of some of the most successful shows in television history. He is also credited with helping to launch two major cable news networks, CNBC and MSNBC. Harbert is a respected figure in the television industry and is known for his strong leadership skills and his ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies.

Name	Ted Harbert
Occupation	Media executive
Birthdate	1951
Education	University of Pennsylvania, Harvard Business School
Known for	Chairman of NBC Broadcasting, CEO of Comcast Entertainment Group

Early career

Ted Harbert's early career as a production assistant at NBC was a crucial step in his journey to becoming one of the most successful media executives in the industry. In this role, he gained valuable experience in all aspects of television production, from development to post-production. He also developed strong relationships with key people in the industry, which would prove invaluable later in his career.

One of the most important things that Harbert learned during his time as a production assistant was the importance of hard work and dedication. He was known for his long hours and his willingness to go the extra mile. This work ethic impressed his superiors and helped him to move up the ranks quickly.

Harbert's experience as a production assistant also gave him a deep understanding of the creative process. He learned how to develop and execute successful programming strategies. This knowledge would prove invaluable later in his career when he was responsible for overseeing the development of some of NBC's most successful shows, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER".

In addition to his hard work and dedication, Harbert also had a natural talent for leadership. He was able to motivate and inspire his team to achieve great things. This leadership ability would prove invaluable later in his career when he was responsible for managing large teams of people.

Overall, Harbert's early career as a production assistant at NBC was a formative experience that helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would need to become one of the most successful media executives in the industry.

Key roles

Ted Harbert's tenure as President of NBC Entertainment and Chairman of NBC Broadcasting was a period of great success for the network. Under his leadership, NBC developed and aired some of the most popular and critically acclaimed shows in television history, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER".

President of NBC Entertainment
As President of NBC Entertainment, Harbert was responsible for overseeing the development and production of all of NBC's primetime programming. He also oversaw the network's late-night programming and its daytime programming.
Chairman of NBC Broadcasting
As Chairman of NBC Broadcasting, Harbert was responsible for overseeing all of NBC's broadcasting operations, including its owned-and-operated stations and its affiliates. He also oversaw the network's news and sports divisions.

Harbert's success as President of NBC Entertainment and Chairman of NBC Broadcasting was due in part to his strong leadership skills and his ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies. He was also known for his commitment to quality and his willingness to take risks.

Harbert's tenure as President of NBC Entertainment and Chairman of NBC Broadcasting was a significant chapter in the history of NBC. Under his leadership, the network became one of the most successful and respected in the industry.

Notable achievements

Ted Harbert's oversight of the development of "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER" was a major turning point in his career and in the history of NBC. These three shows were among the most popular and critically acclaimed sitcoms of all time, and they helped to define the network's identity in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Developing hit shows
Harbert's ability to develop hit shows was one of his greatest strengths as a network executive. He had a knack for identifying talented writers and producers, and he was willing to take risks on new and innovative programming. "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER" were all groundbreaking shows that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on network television.
Building a strong team
Harbert was also known for his ability to build a strong team of executives and creatives. He surrounded himself with talented people who shared his vision for NBC, and he empowered them to take creative risks. This collaborative environment was essential to the development of "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER".
Understanding the audience
Harbert had a deep understanding of the television audience, and he knew what they wanted to see. He was able to identify trends and develop shows that appealed to a wide range of viewers. "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER" were all shows that tapped into the zeitgeist of the time, and they resonated with audiences on a deep level.

Harbert's oversight of the development of "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER" was a major achievement that helped to make NBC one of the most successful networks in television history. These shows are still popular today, and they continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

Industry impact

Ted Harbert played a key role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC, two of the most successful cable news networks in history.

CNBC
CNBC is a business news network that was launched in 1989. Harbert was the president of NBC at the time, and he was instrumental in the development and launch of CNBC. He believed that there was a need for a 24-hour business news network, and he was right. CNBC has become one of the most watched cable news networks in the world.
MSNBC
MSNBC is a news and commentary network that was launched in 1996. Harbert was the chairman of NBC at the time, and he was once again instrumental in the development and launch of the network. MSNBC has become one of the most watched cable news networks in the world, and it is known for its liberal bias.

Harbert's role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC was a major achievement. He helped to create two of the most successful cable news networks in history. These networks have had a major impact on the way that people get their news and information.

Leadership style

Ted Harbert is known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. These qualities have been essential to his success as a media executive. Harbert has overseen the development and production of some of the most successful shows in television history, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER". He has also played a key role in the launch of two major cable news networks, CNBC and MSNBC.

Harbert's strong work ethic has been evident throughout his career. He is known for his long hours and his willingness to go the extra mile. This work ethic has inspired his team to achieve great things. Harbert's attention to detail has also been essential to his success. He is known for his ability to identify and fix even the smallest problems. This attention to detail has helped to ensure that the shows and networks that he has overseen have been of the highest quality.

Harbert's leadership style has been praised by his colleagues and peers. He is known for his ability to motivate and inspire his team. He is also known for his fairness and his willingness to listen to new ideas. Harbert's leadership style has been a major factor in his success as a media executive.

Current role

Ted Harbert's current role as Chairman of the board of directors of Lionsgate is a significant milestone in his career. Lionsgate is a major Hollywood studio that produces and distributes films and television shows. Harbert's appointment to this role is a testament to his experience and success in the entertainment industry.

As Chairman of the board of directors, Harbert is responsible for overseeing the company's strategic direction and performance. He is also responsible for representing the interests of the company's shareholders. Harbert's experience in the entertainment industry will be invaluable in his new role. He has a deep understanding of the creative process and the business side of the entertainment industry. He is also a skilled negotiator and has a strong track record of success.

Harbert's appointment to this role is also a positive sign for Lionsgate. The company has been struggling in recent years, but Harbert's experience and expertise could help to turn things around. He is a respected figure in the entertainment industry, and his appointment is likely to be welcomed by investors and employees alike.

Education

Ted Harbert's education at the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Business School played a significant role in his success as a media executive. His education provided him with the knowledge and skills he needed to succeed in the competitive world of television and film.

Strong Academic Foundation
Harbert's undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania gave him a strong foundation in the liberal arts. He studied English, history, and economics, which gave him a broad understanding of the world. This foundation helped him to make sound decisions and to think critically about the issues facing the television industry.
Business Acumen
Harbert's MBA from Harvard Business School gave him the business acumen he needed to succeed in the television industry. He learned about finance, marketing, and management, which helped him to understand the business side of the industry. This knowledge was essential to his success as a network executive.
Leadership Skills
Harbert's education also helped him to develop his leadership skills. He was involved in a number of extracurricular activities, including student government and the debate team. These activities taught him how to work with others, how to motivate people, and how to make decisions.
Networking Opportunities
Harbert's education also gave him the opportunity to network with other people in the television industry. He met classmates, professors, and alumni who would later become valuable contacts. These relationships helped him to get his foot in the door and to advance his career.

Harbert's education at the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Business School was a major factor in his success as a media executive. His education gave him the knowledge, skills, and network he needed to succeed in the competitive world of television and film.

Ted Harbert FAQs

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Ted Harbert, his career, and his contributions to the television industry.

Question 1: What was Ted Harbert's role in the development of "Friends"?

Ted Harbert was the President of NBC Entertainment when "Friends" was first pitched to the network. He recognized the show's potential and was instrumental in getting it on the air. He also oversaw the show's development and production during its first several seasons.

Question 2: What was Harbert's management style like?

Harbert was known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. He was also a skilled negotiator and had a knack for identifying and developing talent. He was also known for being fair and willing to listen to new ideas.

Question 3: What are some of Harbert's most notable achievements?

Harbert oversaw the development and production of some of the most successful shows in television history, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER". He also played a key role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC.

Question 4: What is Harbert's current role?

Harbert is currently the Chairman of the board of directors of Lionsgate.

Question 5: What are some of the challenges that Harbert faced during his career?

Harbert faced a number of challenges during his career, including the rise of cable television and the increasing competition for viewers. He also faced criticism for some of the programming decisions he made, such as the cancellation of "ER".

Despite these challenges, Harbert has had a successful career in the television industry. He is a respected figure in the industry and is known for his strong leadership skills and his ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies.

Key Takeaways:

Ted Harbert is a successful media executive who has held various leadership positions in the television industry.
He is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies.
He has played a key role in the development of some of the most successful shows in television history, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER".

Transition to the next article section:

Ted Harbert's career is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. He is a respected figure in the industry and is an inspiration to aspiring media executives.

Ted Harbert's Tips for Success in the Television Industry

Ted Harbert is a successful media executive who has held various leadership positions in the television industry. He is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies. Harbert has shared some of his tips for success in the television industry, which can be valuable for aspiring media executives.

Tip 1: Work hard and be dedicated.
The television industry is a competitive one, so it is important to be willing to work hard and be dedicated to your work. Harbert is known for his long hours and his willingness to go the extra mile. This work ethic has been essential to his success.

Tip 2: Pay attention to detail.
Harbert is known for his attention to detail. He believes that it is important to pay attention to the small things, because they can make a big difference in the overall quality of a show.

Tip 3: Develop your leadership skills.
Harbert is a skilled leader who has been able to motivate and inspire his team to achieve great things. He believes that it is important for media executives to develop their leadership skills.

Tip 4: Be willing to take risks.
Harbert is not afraid to take risks. He believes that it is important to be willing to try new things and to push the boundaries. This willingness to take risks has led to some of his greatest successes.

Tip 5: Be passionate about your work.
Harbert is passionate about the television industry. He loves developing and producing shows that entertain and inform viewers. This passion for his work has been a major factor in his success.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

Work hard and be dedicated.
Pay attention to detail.
Develop your leadership skills.
Be willing to take risks.
Be passionate about your work.

Transition to the article's conclusion:

By following these tips, aspiring media executives can increase their chances of success in the television industry.

Conclusion

Ted Harbert is a successful media executive who has held various leadership positions in the television industry. He is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to develop and execute successful programming strategies. Harbert has played a key role in the development of some of the most successful shows in television history, including "Friends", "Seinfeld", and "ER". He has also played a key role in the launch of CNBC and MSNBC.

Harbert's career is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. He is a respected figure in the industry and is an inspiration to aspiring media executives.

Eric Allan Kramer
Sarah Jessica Parker 2023
Larry Hanks