BET new 2016 programming across all properties

buzzz worthy. . .

BET Networks has released the list of new movies and scripted and non-scripted programs that will be added to their robust platform of 2016 programming line-up for BET and Centric with a robust.  Comedian Gary Owens has landed a reality show featuring his blended inter-racial family, "The Gary Owens Family" and the void in inspirational programming left vacant by the cancellation of "Bobby Jones Gospel" will be filled with a similarly formatted show called "Joyful Noise." The network will also deliver two intriguing movies: "Madiba" (Lawrence Fishburne will star in the life of the late Nelson Mandela) and the highly anticipated biopic on the life of boy group New Edition.

Telecasting for more than 35 years, and currently available in over 85 million US households, and over 35 million homes across the globe, BET Networks prevails as the #1 cable network for African American viewers.  Adding to the brand environment with Centric, BET Jams and BET Soul, BET Networks delivers more channels and premium original content to drive authentic viewer engagement and amplify brand love.  With more platforms and authentic content energizing viewers, not only does BET reach more African American viewers than any other cable network, but its viewers also tune in longer than its competitive set.  This fierce brand loyalty has already translated into the networks’ year over year growth outpacing all of cable, with BET ranking as the #1 Cable Growth Network in Q1 2016 among ALL Adults P18-49.     

“We have developed a deep and authentic relationship with our audience over the last 36 years, and it is that genuine connection that has allowed BET to expand into a global multiplatform brand.  This year, we are committed to reaching far beyond the television screen and continuing to deliver more of the premium content that our audiences have come to expect,” said Debra Lee, Chairman and CEO, BET Networks. “With BET being more accessible across more platforms, we are creating a powerful 360 degree experience for our audience to interact with the BET brand like never before.”

BET DIGITAL AMPLIFIES PLATFORM REACH AND DOMINATES LANDSCAPE

BET Networks is transcending the television screen and dominating digital, as the #1 ad-supported multiplatform destination for African American viewers.  With a massive number of hyper-engaged fans powering the brand, and numerous monthly unique visitors across our websites and the BET NOW app, BET Networks captivates consumers wherever they choose to consume content.  Where other networks court African American viewers some of the time, BET Networks reflects and energizes the African American viewer with images that absorb and inspire all of the time, across all platforms.

On Wednesday, April 27 BET Digital is set to relaunch its entire digital ecosystem giving readers a reimagined experience across desktop computers, mobile and tablet platforms. BET’s digital platforms, BET.com and the BET Now App will introduce a completely relaunched, and industry best-in-class digital ecosystem with several new components unique to the digital space including dynamic content feeds, simplified content discovery, cutting-edge designs that incorporate peek-through advertising and messaging opportunities on all electronic devices. Additionally, the BET Digital refresh presents advertisers with unparalleled access to the coveted BET community and expanded reach with added premium integrations and inventory.

“Our brand has always been a trendsetter, shaping the culture and leading the conversation.  Not only is our content more authentic, powerful, and relevant, but now it’s more accessible across more channels and platforms than ever before – and it gives our audience more ways to interact with the BET brand than ever before,” said Louis Carr, President of Media Sales, BET Networks.  “Our most recent partnerships with Snapchat and WhoSay, will allow our partners to tap into the power of the largest, most socially engaged fans in the multimedia space. BET delivers more impressions, more platforms, more engagement, more experiences and more influence.”

BET GOES LIVE WITH DYNAMIC SOCIAL PARTNERSHIPS – SNAPCHAT & WHOSAY

Each year BET Digital magnifies the buzz surrounding its live events, with its biggest weekend being The “BET Awards” and BET Experience.  BET.com’s huge audience and social reach will now extend even further with the announcement of its new enhanced partnership with Snapchat, the premiere platform to experience live and ephemeral global content.  Capitalizing on last year’s “BET Awards” Snapchat Live story, which resulted in one of Snapchat’s biggest live stories of the year, BET ushers in a new 2-day “BET Awards” and BET Experience Snapchat Live Story to make the entire weekend the prime destination for audiences to get a firsthand look at the celebrity-filled action, and offer advertisers unparalleled access to BET’s massive social community.

BET.com’s impressive digital footprint will expand even further in the marketplace and allow advertisers to connect with BET’s coveted audience in a more meaningful way with the launch of “BET AA-Fluencers” powered by WhoSay.   BET will feature constant unfiltered content shared by more than 2,000 of the world's most captivating urban personalities - including actors, athletes, chefs, and millennial influencers.  BET’s innovative partnership with WhoSay will allow brands to leverage African American influencers with high-impact opportunities that will build authentic brand narratives, and bridge the gap between celebrities and the BET audience.  Whether generating social buzz, site traffic or sales, BET’s in-house “AA-Fluencers” will create buzzworthy content that will evoke an emotional resonance with brands.

From amplified premium original programming to best-in-class tentpole specials to dynamic movie events, BET Networks is delivering more powerful moments in 2016-17 across more platforms than ever before.

Check out all of the new shows that were higlighted at BET's annual upfront meeting. . .

ORIGINAL SCRIPTED PROGRAMMING ON BET:

TALES  – From executive producer Irv Gotti Lorenzo comes “TALES,” a 60-minute scripted anthology series of “song stories” weaving classic hip-hop songs into visually stunning 3-act narratives. Far beyond the music video or the live event, “TALES” brings hip-hop alive in a completely new way for television. With “TALES,” each song’s lyrics are imagined as cinematic adventures with a different director and screenwriter per song story. The series is a multi-platform cross-collaboration with TIDAL, the global music and entertainment platform, where the director’s cut versions of each episode will live exclusively after premiering on BET. Subscribers will be able to stream the series on their web browser or through the TIDAL mobile app. “TALES” is produced and created by Irv Gotti and his Visionary Ideas production company.

THE YARD (previously announced) – Starring Tony Award winners Anika Noni Rose (Dreamgirls, The Princess and The Frog) and Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Billions, American Gangster) along with actors Jazz Raycole (The Soul Man, My Wife and Kids) and newcomer Peyton Alex Smith, “THE YARD” is a dynamic scripted dramatic show that takes viewers inside the unique, culture-filled world of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). “THE YARD” follows ambitious yet troubled Dr. Eva Fletcher (Rose), the newly-elected President of the fictional Georgia A&M University. Upon arriving, Eva is charged with saving the prestigious HBCU from bankruptcy and her twenty-year marriage from crumbling while managing a tumultuous relationship with her rebellious only daughter. A diverse group of freshman also promises to keep Eva’s hands full. The multi-talented cast also includes TV icon Jasmine Guy and Sean Blakemore (“General Hospital”) as well as exciting emerging talents—Zoe Renee, Michelle DeFraites, Erica Michelle, Jake Allyn, Larry Rhem, and E. Roger Mitchell. The emotionally-charged series is created by Felicia D. Henderson (Gossip Girl, Soul Food) and Charles Holland (CSI: Miami, NY Undercover), based on a concept created by Rob Hardy (How To Get Away With Murder, Power). The show is executive produced by Henderson and Hardy, who will also direct. Hardy executive produced Stomp The Yard. Co-executive producers on the project include Holland, Will Packer and Mitzi Miller. “THE YARD” is production of Rainforest Entertainment and WaterWalk Productions in conjunction with BET Networks.

BENCHED – “BENCHED” is a one-hour original scripted dramedy about a reluctant, recently appointed judge who is not quite ready to give up his life as bachelor to begin a new life as a public servant. Each week, he confronts the underbelly of the criminal justice system that has derailed a generation of African Americans, including those close to him – as he upholds the tenets of the same system. “BENCHED” is created by Scott Brown.

REBEL – “REBEL” is an extraordinary take on the seminal police drama that examines the unique and conflicted relationship officers of color have with their jobs – at a time when police forces are rife with brutality and misconduct. Oakland police officer, Rebecca “Rebel” Cole, has always excelled by playing by the rules. She has always known that she must be better and smarter on the job because she is both black and female. After her brother is slain by police, Rebel soon becomes disillusioned with the system and is forced to take matters into her own hands and become a private investigator and a champion for her community. Caught between family loyalty and the fraternity in blue, Rebel’s actions set in motion a cause-and-effect crisis that can’t be undone. “REBEL” is produced by Mar Vista Entertainment for BET and co-written, executive produced and directed by visionary filmmaker John Singleton. Kate Lanier is also a writer on the project. Dallas Jackson also serves as Executive Producer.

COMEDY GETDOWN – “COMEDY GET DOWN” is the first scripted comedy series about what really happens behind the scenes of a massive stand-up comedy tour featuring five legendary comics – George Lopez, DL Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin and Charlie Murphy. They’re hilarious, insane and unapologetic on stage, but the second they step off is when the real show begins. The storylines are based on actual events that have taken place not only on their wildly successful Comedy Get Down arena tour, but throughout the 25 plus years each has been a nationally headlining comedian. A workplace comedy at its core, the 30 minute, single-camera series explores the personal and professional relationships of these five comic titans as they navigate the challenges of life on the road: seedy venues, racist road managers, pushy wives, angry baby mamas, obsessive fans, demanding celebrities, shady politicians and more. Free 90 Media’s Tom Brunelle and Brad Wollack serve as Executive Producers along with 3 Arts’ Michael Rotenberg, Greg Walter and Kimberly Carver. Eric C. Rhone from A Bird and A Bear Entertainment also serves as an Executive Producer.

UNSCRIPTED PROGRAMMING ON BET:

MUSIC MOGULS – Birdman. Dame Dash. Jermaine Dupri. Snoop Dogg. They’ve spent the last 20 years making hits, stars and headlines, as well as laying the foundation for some of today’s biggest acts. Although they’ve sold millions of records and taken the risks to live the life of a mogul, not every calculation yields the desired return. Over eight 60-minute episodes, this hard-hitting docu-series takes you into their lives as each entrepreneur navigates both familiar and new territory – from grooming new talent and building new empires to raising their college-bound children. Being a music mogul is grown man business; learn what it takes to stay at the top of the game. Music Moguls is produced by L. Plummer Media (The Westbrooks, Preachers of LA, Living with Funny) with Lemuel Plummer, Bryan “Birdman” Williams, Snoop Dogg and Chad Greulach serving as Executive Producers.

GARY OWEN FAMILY – Gary Owen is arguably Black America’s most beloved non-Black comic. He became part of the family as the first Caucasian man to host BET’s ComicView, and confirmed he was here to stay with his star turns in the Think Like A Man films, Ride Along and Meet The Blacks. He also starred in his own hit stand-up comedy specials including I Agree With Myself, True Story and the upcoming I Got My Associates. Now, he brings his own interracial and blended family to BET in a 30-minute unscripted series that is colorful, truthful and hysterical. Gary Owen loves his wife so much, he wants to marry her again – and the path down the aisle is paved with non-stop laughter as he balances planning a wedding with raising his three rambunctious children and growing his white-hot career. “GARY OWEN FAMILY” is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions. Bunim/Murray’s Gil Goldschein and Jeff Jenkins serve as Executive Producers along with Gary Owen, Stella Bulochnikov, Brian Sher and TIP “T.I.” Harris.

JOYFUL NOISE – “JOYFUL NOISE” is the gospel music hour that delivers the perfect blend of performances from today’s gospel super stars, rising new artists, powerful personal testimonies and insightful man-on-the-street interviews with the inspirational Willie Moore Jr. Hosted by one of gospel music’s most gifted artists, two-time GRAMMY®, Soul Train, Dove and Stellar Award winner Tye Tribbett, this series is sure to strengthen the genre’s appeal with younger audiences, while honoring the core values of its rich traditions. The radical singer, songwriter, and preacher who’s known for his edgy and energetic live performances and hosting abilities, continues to shatter the mold of what is traditionally known as Gospel music. A true innovator, with one of the most relevant voices of this generation, Tribbett is set to create a dynamic new caliber of hosting. In addition to a variety of musical performances, each show will also feature a power-filled sermonette by one of the nation’s leading pastors, setting the tone for a more compelling worship experience. Finally, “JOYFUL NOISE” will showcase amazing local churches from around the nation, giving viewers the opportunity to get their hometown church featured on the show. “JOYFUL NOISE” is guaranteed to deliver the kind of entertainment that feeds the spirit and uplifts the soul.

ONE SHOT – “ONE SHOT” is a high-octane hip hop lyrical competition series hosted by Sway Calloway, iconic hip hop personality and radio host. Sway leads a panel of hip hop legends in a nationwide quest for the next explosive hip hop star with mass appeal, on-the-fly musicianship and command of the stage. Neither battle show nor glossy newcomer search, “ONE SHOT” provides the first and only dynamic platform for America’s best rising hip hop talent. Each contestant’s main competition can be found in the mirror. Sway serves as Executive Producer along with Mike Smith, Dominick Wickliffe p/k/a “Kxng Crooked”, Rod Sepand p/k/a “King Tech”, Nancy Nayor and Dean Hadaegh. Zach Hermann and Erika Smith serve as Co-Executive Producers. Julie Insogna Jarrett and Seth Jarrett will also serve as Executive Producers for production company, Jarrett Creative.

MOVIE EVENTS ON BET:

NEW EDITION: THE MOVIE (previously announced)- New Edition laid the foundation for how modern-day boy bands look, feel, and sound. Boyz II Men, N’SYNC, The Backstreet Boys, and New Kids On The Block all took their cues from Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph and Johnny. After 30 years of breaking hearts on the record and from the stage, New Edition finally gets the biopic that their stellar tenure in entertainment so richly deserves. This 3-part miniseries follows the group from their humble beginnings as kids in Boston to global megastardom – weathering the highs and lows of controversy, personnel changes, and the ultimate cost of fame. Bryshere Gray (Empire), Elijah Kelley (The Butler, The Wiz Live!), Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Luke James, Keith Powers (Straight Outta Compton), Algee Smith (Let It Shine) and Woody McClain(Autographs) have joined the cast to bring the iconic music group’s legend to life. Written by Abdul Williams (Lottery Ticket), “NEW EDITION: THE MOVIE” is executive produced by Jesse Collins Entertainment (Real Husbands of Hollywood) and directed by Chris Robinson (ATL).

MADIBA – BET partners with executive producers Lance Samuels, Kweku Mandela and Daniel Iron for an original production that focuses on the story of Nelson Mandela, the globally beloved humanitarian, as well as the many other leaders of the African National Congress — Oliver Tambo (Orlando Jones) and Walter Sisulu (David Harewood) — who fought alongside Mandela in the multi-racial, multi-national movement that led to the end of South African apartheid. Academy Award® nominee Laurence Fishburne completely transforms in the lead role, under the direction of Kevin Hooks (Passenger 57, Prison Break), who also serves as Executive Producer.

NEW PROGRAMMING ON CENTRIC:

QUEEN BEE – Entrepreneurs are an enormous force in American business and culture, and African American women are among the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs in the nation. They have the ideas, the creativity, and the drive, but too often they fly under the radar and don’t get the mentoring and capital they need to launch their product or take their company to the next level. Developed by Jon Housman, Ora TV, and SWSI, this ground-breaking reality competition series discovers amazing entrepreneurs building real-life companies, and then challenges them to take their skills to the next level. Mentored – and put to the test – by a panel of celebrities and successful entrepreneurs, our contestants will go through a series of intense challenges in an effort to win the competition – and a potentially life-changing opportunity to become Queen Bee. Jon Housman and Jamie Schutz serve as Executive Producers.

MONICA MORTON – On Centric, real women are stars. This year, we meet the real-life investigator and crisis manager that scandal-plagued celebrities and athletes already rely upon: MONICA MORTON, P.I. With her pistol in one hand and lipstick in the other, Monica uses her quick wit and sharp tongue to solve cases in this unscripted series. Mike Sinclair is Executive Producer.

RETURNING MEGA-SPECIALS AND TENTPOLE EVENTS ON BET:

• BET AWARDS ‘16 – In its sixteenth year, The “BET AWARDS” franchise is the #1 program in cable television history among African American viewers, and a top 10 awards show on television among total viewers.  The BET AWARDS ’15 was a worldwide trending topic as the live telecast was the #1 most social cable special of 2015.  Featuring the biggest stars in music, sports, Hollywood, and philanthropy on one stage for one incredible night, the “BET AWARDS ’16” promises to be a star-studded night packed with unforgettable buzzworthy moments.
• BET EXPERIENCE – Returning for its fourth year, BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® is four-day event showcasing the best in music, comedy, and entertainment. The immersive experience has grown exponentially over the last three years, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the downtown Los Angeles area.  The BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® includes a series of interactive events such as a free Fan Fest, live music, Sprite Celebrity Basketball Game, and Genius Talks with A-list talent.  BET Networks and AEG have also recently announced the star-studded lineup of electrifying concerts including Fetty Wap, A$AP Ferg, Tory Lanez, Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, Usher, Bryson Tiller, Katt Williams and Mike Epps.
• BET HIP HOP AWARDS  – The “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” returns for its tenth year to highlight the best in hip hop music, with dynamic performances and breakthrough freestyle cyphers that set social media on fire. The only show of its kind, the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” celebrates legendary hip hop icons, today’s hottest rap artists and emerging hip hop stars of tomorrow - all on one stage.  This show serves millions of people who love hip hop culture, a culture which continues to define a generation and defy convention.
• BLACK GIRLS ROCK! ™ – Created by executive producer Beverly Bond, “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!” is an award show celebrating the nexus of achievements made by brilliant and visionary Black women. The two time NAACP Image Award-winning special is both timely and timeless, saluting dynamic women leaders and trailblazers in the arts, entertainment, business, philanthropy and more. Past celebrants include Ruby Dee, Marian Wright Edelman, Shonda Rhimes, Angela Davis, Rihanna, Kerry Washington, Janelle Monáe, and Taraji P. Henson amongst many others. From Living Legends to Young Gifted and Black celebrants – “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!” ™ highlights the wide spectrum of talent and contributions of women of color who are shaping our world.
• CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL – The biggest night that celebrates gospel music, America’s truly original and internationally loved art form, only happens on BET.  “CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL” is a star-studded evening of spirited performances and moving renditions by today’s hottest and most talented artists from the worlds of Gospel and R&B.
• THE BET HONORS – Returning for a 10th year, “THE BET HONORS” shows the world “what extraordinary looks like” by shining the spotlight on the achievements of distinguished leaders in the fields of music, education, entertainment, technology and business. Airing during Black History Month, “THE BET HONORS” is a shimmering night of dynamic performances and tributes that cross genres and generations. Previous honorees include Lee Daniels, Eric Holder, Kanye West, Patti Labelle and Phylicia Rashad.

RETURNING MEGA-SPECIALS AND TENTPOLE EVENTS ON CENTRIC:

• SOUL TRAIN AWARDS – With BET Networks’ recent acquisition of the iconic Soul Train franchise, this year’s “SOUL TRAIN AWARDS” promises more love, peace and soul than ever before.  Featuring one-of-a-kind musical collaborations and powerful tributes from world-class performers, the “SOUL TRAIN AWARDS” brings you the most celebrated and rising voices in soul and R&B. The “SOUL TRAIN AWARDS” is simulcast on Centric and BET.
• CENTRIC SOUL WEEKEND – “Centric Soul Weekend” will be an amazing on the ground experience shared by viewers, artists and clients alike, as Las Vegas comes alive with a celebration and showcase of the best of African-American culture.