THE XX FACTOR
IN TESTOSTERONE-FUELED TINSELTOWN, MEET THREE WOMEN WHO HAVE BROKEN THROUGH THE CELLULOID CEILING.
In testosterone-fueled Tinseltown, meet three women who have broken through the celluloid ceiling.
On the silver screen, women have held their own in Hollywood for years. In the front office, not so much. These days, the fairer sex is kicking up their game big-time, one designer high-heel at a time. This May, wonder woman/ powerhouse Dany Garcia, cofounder of Seven Bucks Productions (and a pro bodybuilder in her spare time!) is exec-producing the muchanticipated Baywatch, starring her ex-husband and biz partner, Dwayne Johnson, Hollywood’s highest-paid actor. Another tough gal, actress-turned-producer Leah Remini is reinventing herself once again, this time partnering with A&E for the buzzy round two of her gutsy memoir-turned-documentary, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath. And upstairs at MGM, Senior VP Shelley Reid somehow finds time to lead Visionary Women, a nonprofit that supports women’s initiatives, as well as chair the biggest fashion event in LA, the Otis College of Art & Design Annual Scholarship Benefit and Fashion Show.
Who says brawn, brains, and beauty are mutually exclusive? Not any of these power gals.
DANY GARCIA, 48
THE PRODUCER How much of success is timing and luck?
It isn’t—it’s being rooted authentically in what you want to execute.
Do you feel women in Hollywood are underrepresented?
Absolutely! Every discussion benefits from a woman’s perspective at the table.
If you were mentoring a young woman starting in the Industry today, what would your advice be?
Be comfortable with the delivery of your point of view, and surround yourself with supportive people who believe deeply in what you’re doing.
Who is your ideal employee?
One who understands no great thing is ever accomplished alone.
Do you have any regrets? Not trusting myself sooner and at a younger age. What’s the secret to juggling a powerhouse business, family, and hobbies (like bodybuilding!)?
Creating an environment that supports everything you want to do and weeding out the things that don’t. Favorite movies? Historically and into the future, it’s pretty much the entire Disney animated slate! Do you have a secret spot in LA?
The Hotel Bel-Air, because it was my first “home away from home” in Los Angeles. The staff makes the visit feel like I’m with family.
What are the three things you still want to do?
There are millions! But up next is writing a book, expanding my partnerships in the health and fitness industry… and investing in restaurants!