BET Presents New Programming Lineup

NEW YORK, April 18: BET
Networks has added several new shows to its roster, including lifestyle
programs, an animated series and a new election-focused initiative aimed to
raise voter awareness and participation among African American youth.

New original series for
the network include The Black Panther, an animated series about the first black superhero; Brutha, a docu-drama following the lives of five brothers
in a singing group; and 106 & Gospel, which is an inspirational version of the music countdown series 106
& Park. Shows slated to return
to BET include American Gangster,
Sunday Best, Baldwin Hills and Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is, among others. The channel will also air returning
specials such as the BET Awards ’09, The BET Honors and BET Hip Hop
Awards.

The network is also
rolling out a new multiplatform effort aimed to encourage black youth to
discuss, debate and participate in the presidential election process, YOU(th)
Vote!

"As the number one
media destination for African Americans and consumers of black culture, BET
Networks offers our audience an engaging and relevant experience that truly
resonates with them," said Debra L. Lee, the chairman and CEO of BET
Networks. "We continue to make strides in our original programming and
digital offerings, and are further strengthening our commitment to providing
quality content wherever our audience wants it."

"BET Networks is
committed to creating new extensions of our brand and identifying the most
innovative and exciting opportunities for both our viewers and our advertising
partners," added Scott Mills, the company’s president and COO. "We've
done so through our international expansion with our recent launch of BET in
the U.K., our new integrated marketing function and new digital efforts. As our
footprint grows, we're looking forward to building an even deeper connection
with our audience."

—By Kristin
Brzoznowski