Quinn- tessential Beth Sullivan, Part 2
Beth Sullivan is Executive Producer of "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" *and* The Most Powerful Woman in TV.
Agoura Hills, CA. Take a guess why the TV cynics were scornful. Why the network executives were startled. But why the audiences were charmed. Give up?
After only 3 weeks on the air, "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" (Saturdays on CBS) became a smash. Who could figure? A series about a woman doctor (Michaela "Mike" Quinn) who moves her practice out west after the Civil War? And on Saturdays, yet? ...the most feared Nielsen date on television.
Credit Beth Sullivan, Executive Producer and Creator of the award winning
"Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman," who did her homework, had a vision, and above all, had the courage to pursue a dream.
"I did so much market research and came to the conclusion that you have to look from a viewer's perspective. If there's something they like to watch, they'll stay home--even if it's on a popular Saturday night."
The 45-year-old television maverick showed the broadcasting powerhouses that she meant business. "I threw myself on the railroad tracks," she explains, and while we have a well-liked show, CBS 'also got a very good deal. I had to sell my soul financially for the reward of getting the Executive Producer title, and having the show in association with my Sullivan Company."
Introducing Beth Sullivan, the Quinn-tessential woman of television responsible for not only "Quinn" but also for co-creating "The Trials of Rosie O'Neill." Talking to Sullivan is like listening to the rat-a-tat-tat of a machine gun. Her answers are quick, concise, resourceful She is a compulsive perfectionist who is also passionate, intuitive, and above all, caring
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LMS: So you're not an Executive Producer just in name only?
BS: I oversee all aspects of production.
LMS: That requires a certain amount of control.
B S: I took control from the beginning, but as a woman, I can't get heavy too often and still be respected. That's why I constantly feel these slicing razor blade cuts on my feet. It's a thin, sharp line to walk.
LMS: You walk it well.
BS: Maybe because I also show my appreciation if something is well done. Everyone wants to feel wanted and praised.
LMS: Writers, too! When you taught screenwriting at the American Film Institute, what words of wisdom did you give to beginners?