Documentaries, Reality Shows,
and Lifestyle Series
RADIO+TV
THE START
Lico began his career in the television industry in the 1970s, and has had various “sub-careers”, all within the broadcasting business. His career began in radio while in college, and moved into TV after graduation.
SFM
ENTERTAINMENT
FIRST JOB
His first professional job in 1976 was for SFM Entertainment, learning at the feet of the legendary Stan Moger. Together they syndicated THE NEW MICKEY MOUSE CLUB and SFM HOLIDAY NETWORK to television stations nationwide.
A NEW DAY
From there......a major career change as a talent scout and producer of a Milwaukee (WI) morning talk show, A NEW DAY. At it's prime, Lico and his co-host were beating the former market leader, DONAHUE. This was 1979-1980.
GARY'S TALK
SHOW DAYS
THE
TOM SELLECK
STYLE
Co-hosting with former Miss America
THE
CHARMING
CO-HOST
GREAT
WITH
THE KIDS
KILL THE
CAMERAMAN
STYLE
A VIDEO
MONTAGE
A mashup of various episodes and appearances by Gary
during his talk show days including a guest appearance on the popular SNL show.
A FUN
INTERVIEW
An interview with Grizelle De Los Reyes, at NATPE 2019.
How the O.J. Simpson saga inspired the monster hit FORENSIC FILES.
FIRST
PROFESSIONAL
JOB
His first professional job in 1976 was for SFM Entertainment, learning at the feet of the legendary Stan Moger. Together they syndicated THE NEW MICKEY MOUSE CLUB and SFM HOLIDAY NETWORK to television stations nationwide. From there a major career change, talent and producer of a morning talk show, A NEW DAY. At his prime, Lico and his co-host were beating the former market leader, DONAHUE. This was 1979-1980.
1980
BACK ROOM
Then, in 1980,a jump into the backroom of programming….reviewing, planning, scheduling and placing programming on TV stations represented by Katz Communications…..identifying potential hits and time periods, researching the recommendation and in some cases, acting as the stations’ program director. Among the hits recommended were WHEEL OF FORTUNE and LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE.
1985-1992
PROGRAM SALES
Back into program sales in 1985, at Columbia Pictures Television (now Sony), handling the east coast for syndication while bringing the company into the cable age. As a result, Columbia was the first studio to license programming to cable networks, including MY TWO DADS and GHOSTBUSTERS.
1992
HIS OWN BOSS
From there, time to be an entrepreneur. In 1992, he founded CABLEready Corporation, a company focused on distributing television programming to cable networks in the USA. As the television industry expanded, so too did CABLEready, moving into original programming and international distribution to channels and platforms around the world. Under his leadership, CABLEready became a leading player in the global content distribution market, representing a diverse portfolio of programming across genres such as documentaries, reality shows, and lifestyle series.
The monster hits
FORENSIC FILES and INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO were among the dozens of programs distributed.
CABLE ready
Throughout his tenure at CABLEready, Lico earned a reputation for his innovative approach to content distribution, leveraging emerging technologies and forging strategic partnerships to expand the company's reach and influence in the industry. His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to changing consumer preferences played a significant role in CABLEready's success.
FORENSIC FILES
In 2013, CABLEready's life was cut short by the intricacies of the business. Lico closed the company, becoming a one-man show, tasked with the sole responsibility of distributing FORENSIC FILES exclusively, a program he conceived in 1995 and marketed until 2023.
I WANT YOU TO
REMEMBER
I CREATED FORENSIC FILES*
*A MONSTER HIT
2023
THE TELLY AWARDS
Gary executive-produced the Telly Award-winning, FORENSIC FILES: A SPECIAL TRIBUTE
PHILANTHROPHY
CAUSES+ INITIATIVES
In addition to his work at CABLEready, Lico has been actively involved in various industry organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting the growth and development of the television industry. He has served on the board of directors for organizations such as the NATPE, IRTS, The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University Advisory Board, and has been recognized for his contributions with numerous awards and accolades, including a recent Telly for his production of a tribute to FORENSIC FILES 25th Anniversary.
Beyond his professional achievements, Lico is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of others, notably scholarships at Syracuse University and Central Michigan University, his alma maters.
Overall, Gary Lico's career has been defined by his passion for television and his unwavering commitment to excellence. Through his visionary leadership and innovative approach to content distribution, he has left an indelible mark on the industry.
PROUDLY
RETIRED
A GLORIOUS
50+ YEARS!
Gary then retired in 2023, moving from the fast lane to the slow life of rural America. He continues his charitable efforts with the Universities.
Since 2017, Gary has adapted the alter ego of SANTA CLAUS, more than a hobby, more akin to a “calling”. He covers the kids in a multi-county area. Kids reaction to “THE FUN GUY” are both heartwarming and hilarious.
