Hallmark Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wonya Lucas, known for her role in expanding diversity and inclusivity in programming and movies, stepped down.
Lucas says she will continue to help Hallmark Media "in a more strategically focused capacity."
Hallmark CEO Wonya Lucas Steps Down
Hallmark CEO Wonya Lucas bids farewell to the network that has seen a remarkable transformation under her leadership. Per Los Angles Times, Lucas celebrated for spearheading a wave of cultural diversity and inclusion in programming, has announced her exit from the channel.
In her recent statement, the outgoing Hallmark CEO says she is proud of how the network has transformed during her tenure.
She says, "I am honored to have led this company and am tremendously proud of the progress we've made by creating an evolved entertainment experience that inspires meaningful, emotionally connected moments for our audiences."
She further stresses that her "passion for the Hallmark brand has grown in deeply rewarding ways." And as such, she will continue to guide Hallmark Media moving forward "in a more strategically focused capacity."
According to Variety, Hallmark Companies president and CEO Mike Perry paused Lucas. He declares, "Wonya is a multi-faceted industry veteran, passionate brand builder, and consummate strategic leader."
Diversity and Inclusivity in Hallmark Programming
Lucas rose to prominence during her Hallmark leadership by pushing boundaries and redefining the narrative. She replaced veteran Hallmark executive Bill Abbott in 2020 upon his resignation. Her predecessor stepped down after the network pulled an ad featuring same-sex couples for a Zola wedding planning firm. The move faced widespread backlash.
According to The Western Journal, Abbott's leadership is known for its wholesome and conservative romances. The former CEO debuted on the Hallmark Channel way back in 2004.
And as such, Lucas entered the picture with a remarkable change in direction. She received praise for expanding the diversity and inclusivity of Hallmark projects. Before her leadership, critics call out the network's programming for being primarily straight and white.
When Lucas took over, one of the defining moments of her tenure was the introduction of gay-themed movies and shows to the Hallmark lineup. The network premiered its first-holiday romance in 2020, which stars a same-sex couple, entitled "The Christmas House." she partnered with the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation to produce the "gay-themed" romance.
Hallmark may be changing its programming direction once again following Lucas' exit. It remains to be seen if storylines steer away from LGBTQ inclusivity and diversity.
Hallmark Media failed to disclose the reason behind Lucas' departure.
