• by Wayne Friedman , August 1, 2017

Beverly Hills, California -- Under a new entertainment team, CBS intends to send a message to the creative community. It is looking beyond its roster of dramas and comedies, as well as expanding the diversity of its on-air performers.

Speaking at the Television Critics Association meeting here, Kelly Kahl, a long-time CBS veteran promoted to president of CBS Entertainment in May, said: “You don’t know where the hits come from. We wanted to send the message we are open for business.”

Thom Sherman, now senior EVP of programming for CBS, who has come from a senior executive position at The CW, said: “[We told talent agencies/producers] bring us everything you got; we want to broaden our palate.”

Some TV critics have complained that the CBS lineup is somewhat predictable -- with standard crime procedural dramas and three-camera studio comedies.

In addition, TV critics at the TCA event voiced continued diversity concerns for the network. That was heightened recently by the departure of two popular longtime Asian-American actors on “Hawaii Five-O.” Kahl said those actors were offered “lucrative” new deals.

Kahl and Sherman believe both networks -- CW and CBS -- have made progress, with more diversity both on and off the air. “I feel we are moving in the right direction," said Kahl.

Sherman did say there has been progress in developing new series -- especially when it comes to casting diversity of lead-actors -- has been slow, due to CBS’ success. “There is not as much shelf space to put on new shows.”

Sherman added the network did develop female-led shows during the past year, though none were picked up for the upcoming TV season. CBS is also looking for more diversity in its casting department.