Judy McGrath Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks Date of Birth: 15.07.1952 Country: USA

1. Judy McGrath: Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks
2. A Visionary Leader
3. A Passion for Music and Television
4. Early Days at MTV
5. A Philanthropic Leader

Judy McGrath: Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks

Judy McGrath has been serving as the Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks since July 2004. Prior to this, she was the President of MTV Networks Group, responsible for channels such as MTV, MTV2, VH1, CMT: Country Music Television, and Comedy Central. McGrath currently oversees the operations of 122 channels, which reach more than 480 million viewers worldwide in 171 countries and broadcast in 28 languages.

A Visionary Leader

McGrath's success in MTV Networks dates back to its inception. Under her leadership, MTV grew from an independent cable channel to a global brand that represents culture, style, and the music landscape. Since the beginning, she has infused her passion, originality, and energy into television, contributing to the creative potential of music. McGrath and her team have developed programs and events throughout the company's portfolio, which have become cultural landmarks for people worldwide. Some of these include the MTV Video Music Awards, the MTV Movie Awards, Total Request Live, The Real World, Punk'd, The Osbournes, and many more.

A Passion for Music and Television

Born to a teacher and a social worker, McGrath always had a keen interest in music. As a child, she would stand on a chair and imagine herself conducting an orchestra. After graduating from college in Pennsylvania, she hoped to combine her love for rock music and English language skills by writing for Rolling Stone magazine. Judy is recognized as an inspiring leader and a creative force. Throughout her career, she has continuously worked to engage viewers through expressive and impactful programming.

Early Days at MTV

McGrath joined Warner Amex Satellite Entertainment Company (WASEC), the parent company of MTV Networks, in 1981 as a copywriter and on-air promoter for MTV. She quickly rose through the ranks, contributing ideas to promotional contests such as "Devo Goes Hawaiian" and "One Night Stand with Journey." McGrath exceeded expectations and became the Editor-in-Chief of MTV, then Executive Vice President of MTV, Creative Director of MTV, and eventually the President of MTV. Before joining the company, she served as the Head Writer for Glamour magazine and the Editor-in-Chief of Mademoiselle magazine.

A Philanthropic Leader

In addition to her role at MTV Networks, McGrath is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She serves on the boards of the New York City Ballet, McCarton School for children with autism, and Rock the Vote. She is also a member of the advisory committee for LifeBeat, a non-profit organization in the music industry that fights against AIDS. McGrath has been honored with GLAAD and Harlem Children's Zone awards for her support of the LGBTQ+ community and her involvement in the non-profit organization "Children of Harlem." In 2003, she was named Humanitarian of the Year by the T.J. Martell Foundation. McGrath received the Television Century Award at the Promax & BDA conference in 2004, recognizing her contribution to brand leadership in the television industry.