CAPE Announces the Showrunners Incubator Class of 2025: Empowering Diverse Voices in Entertainment
The Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (CAPE) proudly introduces its Showrunners Incubator class of 2025, continuing the #TakeTheLead diversity initiative for a second year. Melinda Hsu, executive producer and showrunner of "Nancy Swift," will chair the program, which aims to provide aspiring showrunners with invaluable mentorship, real-world training, and education.
"Recent statistics from the Writers Guild of America reveal that over 1,300 TV writing jobs were lost last season, with nearly half occurring at the co-executive producer to showrunner level," noted Rhian Moore, CAPE’s head of programs. "This significant decline has created even fewer opportunities for writers to acquire essential leadership experience in both the writers’ room and on set. With our inaugural class alumni already stepping into successful showrunning roles, CAPE is committed to nurturing the next generation of creative leaders."
Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at Starz, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership with CAPE: "We are thrilled to collaborate once again on the Showrunner Incubator, a crucial pipeline for elevating emerging voices and connecting them with seasoned TV executives and producers. This program not only provides established writers with the guidance and resources they need to advance their careers but also allows Starz to continue championing inclusive storytelling. We look forward to supporting this new cohort as they embark on the next phase of their development."
The 2025 class features a diverse group of experienced writers specializing in drama, comedy, and animation, all with exciting projects in development. Here’s a closer look at the talented individuals in this year’s cohort:
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Christina Strain: Originally from an Army base in Seoul, South Korea, Christina moved to the U.S. at 18 to pursue a degree in graphic design at Louisiana State University. After coloring for Marvel Comics on titles like “Runaways” and “Thor,” she began her writing journey with the Shuster Award-winning webcomic “The Fox Sister.” Christina is also an American Film Institute screenwriting fellow.
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Eric Lu: A writer and producer currently working on “High Potential,” Eric has an impressive background that includes five seasons on “The Resident,” as well as developing shows with CBS, Netflix, and more. His impactful documentary films and a popular YouTube channel with over a billion views highlight his versatility. He was a member of the inaugural cohort at Rideback Rise, where he penned a sci-fi feature set in Taipei.
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Freddie Gutierrez: A Chamorro storyteller, Freddie has made his mark in Hollywood by writing for stars like Eddie Murphy and Kevin Hart. His credits include work on major networks such as Nickelodeon and Disney, and he is currently developing a bio-series on Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and an innovative animated fantasy hip-hop adventure.
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Hillary Benefiel: Hailing from San Antonio, TX, and growing up as an Air Force brat, Hillary has a diverse background that includes credits on “Person of Interest” and “The Magicians.” Most recently, she served as a co-executive producer on Netflix’s “You.”
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Kathryn Lyn: A two-time Hugo-nominated writer from rural Michigan, Kathryn focuses on stories featuring diverse working-class characters. She has served as co-executive producer on “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” and “The Bondsman,” along with numerous projects for various networks.
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Melissa Rundle: A Canadian American screenwriter of mixed heritage based in LA, Melissa is an executive producer on an upcoming pilot with Dimension Studios. Her past work includes co-producing on the CW’s “Kung Fu” and contributing to WB’s Advanced Narrative Department.
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Vidhya Iyer: A writer and director based in LA, Vidhya is developing a TV show with Oops Doughnuts and is on Season 4 of Amazon Prime’s “Hazbin Hotel.” Her impressive credits include work on “Harley Quinn,” “Solar Opposites,” and more.
- Yamara Taylor: An LA native and Peabody Award-winning writer and executive producer with over two decades of experience, Yamara’s notable TV credits include “Black-ish,” “Dave,” and “The Boondocks.” She is currently working on a half-hour comedy for Hulu.
CAPE is dedicated to fostering diverse talent in the entertainment industry, and the Showrunners Incubator is a key initiative in shaping the future of storytelling. With the support of industry leaders and the commitment of emerging voices, this program is poised to make a significant impact in Hollywood.
