Ryan Murphy Launches Initiative to Tackle Diversity in Hollywood

"I personally can do better," Murphy told The Hollywood Reporter, referring to a speech former publicist Nanci Ryder made at THR's Women in Entertainment breakfast. "Nanci said, 'People in power, you have a position and responsibility to change the industry,' and I thought, 'She's right,' "

The Scream Queens, American Horror Story and AmericanCrime Story showrunner is committed to having 50 percent of all director slots on his shows filled by either women, people of color or members of the LGBTQ community by the end of 2016. According to the Directors Guild of America, women and minorities account for only 16 and 18 percent, respectively, of all directing jobs in TV.

Murphy also wants to let young people know that there is a place for them in Hollywood so in addition to creating a database of names and contact information to share with other showrunners, Half will begin outreach efforts at colleges and universities. Candidates will then be set up with mentors from Ryan Murphy Productions, as well as internships and shadowing opportunities around Hollywood

"The industry has always been about, you come to us," Murphy said. "There's not a lot of effort and inclusion, and I'm saying, 'No, we're going to go to you.'"