Leading Television Executive Recognized by HRC Atlanta
Bravo's Andy Cohen to accept National Visibility Award
He's been called a pop culture maven and one of the world's most adored late-night bloggers, but Andy Cohen's two decades in television encapsulate what he's best known for: Bravo, NBC Universal's gutsy and provocative channel that turns on more than 80 million homes with reality shows, high fashion and high drama. On January 28 at a kick-off reception for the region's upcoming gala dinner and auction, HRC Atlanta announced Cohen as winner of the 2010 National Visibility Award.
The Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award recognizes LGBT individuals who are living open and honest lives at home, at work and in their greater community – attributes that align with HRC's mission of creating a country that inspires and engages all Americans to work toward ending discrimination against LGBT citizens and realizing a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Past recipients of the coveted National Visibility Award include WNBA star Sheryl Swoopes and "Young and the Restless" star Thom Bierdz, among others.
Cohen, Bravo's senior vice president of original programming and development, is responsible for overseeing the network's current development and production slate of over two dozen shows, including hits such as Emmy and James Beard award-winning "Top Chef," "The Real Housewives of Orange County, New York City, Atlanta and New Jersey," "Shear Genius," "The Millionaire Matchmaker," "Million Dollar Listing," and "Flipping Out."
In addition, Cohen is the host of "Watch What Happens: Live," Bravo's late night, interactive, weekly talk show that features guests from some of Bravo's most popular series, as well as from the world of entertainment, politics and pop culture. The series includes lively debates on everything from fashion, the latest Housewives drama, to what celebrity is making headlines that week. Since starting at Bravo in 2005, he has overseen an aggressive slate of unscripted series and specials including "Project Runway," "Queer Eye," "Work Out," "The Rachel Zoe Project" and "Tabatha's Salon Takeover."
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Bravo was the most recognized brand among gay consumers in 2008.