For the first time since the Hollywood gender parity coalition ReFrame formed in 2017, the majority of the most popular shows on television and streaming were toplined by women. According to the ReFrame Report on Gender & Hiring in TV, 108 (54 percent) of the top 200 scripted series in the 2022-23 season featured a woman in the lead role, up from 45.5 percent last year. This increase in representation is a significant step towards achieving gender parity in the industry.
Furthermore, women of color were the leading actors on 39 shows, compared to only 21 shows last year. This represents a positive shift towards inclusivity and highlights the importance of representation for underrepresented groups. Supporting casts are also diversifying, with 152 shows (76 percent) composed of at least 50 percent people from an underrepresented gender identity. Additionally, 129 shows (64.5 percent) featured casts with at least 25 percent women of color. These statistics demonstrate that progress is being made towards creating more inclusive and diverse television shows.
In terms of behind-the-scenes roles, women achieved gender parity in writing, with 50.08 percent of episodes penned by women, up from 48.4 percent last year. The share of episodes directed by women also increased from 36 percent to 40 percent. However, there is still work to be done in ensuring equal opportunities for women, especially women of color, in directing roles. Out of 113 pilot helming gigs, only three were directed by a woman of color. This reflects a persistent lack of representation and opportunities for women of color in influential positions within the industry.
The percentage of female showrunners increased from 29.5 percent to 32.5 percent, indicating a positive trend towards more women being in charge of creative decisions. Women showrunners of color also saw an increase, rising from 3.5 percent to 9.5 percent. However, the overall numbers still show a significant gender disparity in this leadership role.
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Every season, ReFrame evaluates staffing on scripted television shows to award its Stamp to those who meet its criteria for gender-inclusive hiring in key positions in the cast and crew. This season, 94 of the top 200 shows qualified for the ReFrame TV Stamp, along with 13 additional series that submitted themselves for consideration. The Stamp serves as a recognition of gender-inclusive hiring practices and encourages industry professionals to prioritize diversity and gender parity.
In terms of recognition, most of this season’s Emmy-nominated comedies received the ReFrame TV Stamp, highlighting their commitment to gender-inclusive hiring. However, only one of the eight nominated dramas received the stamp, indicating that there is still progress to be made in this genre. It is essential for the industry to continue pushing for gender parity and inclusivity to ensure that these positive changes are sustained and built upon.
While there has been significant progress in the representation of women in television, the ReFrame Report also raises concerns about the sustainability of these gains. A third of the series that earned the ReFrame TV Stamp this year have been cancelled, showcasing the need for ongoing support and commitment to gender parity. As the industry looks towards a return to development and production, it is crucial for gender parity to remain a priority and for progress to continue, without stalling or backsliding.
The ReFrame Report also assesses major media companies based on the percentage of shows on their production and distribution slates that receive the Stamp. Apple, which led last year with nearly 80 percent of its shows earning the Stamp, saw a decline in its 2022-23 slate. Netflix, Disney, and NBCUniversal were among the companies with the most Stamped shows this season, demonstrating their commitment to gender-inclusive hiring practices.
In conclusion, the 2022-23 season saw significant progress towards gender parity and inclusivity in television. The increase in female-led shows, diverse supporting casts, and gender-inclusive hiring practices is a testament to the efforts and advocacy of organizations like ReFrame. However, there is still work to be done in ensuring equal opportunities and representation for women, especially women of color. The industry must continue to prioritize gender parity and diversity to create a truly inclusive and representative television landscape.
