BET Networks Unveils New Series, Refreshed Companion Channel

BET Networks has revealed at its 2017-18 Upfront presentation several new original programs such as 50 Central featuring Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, as well as returning shows and a rebrand of a companion channel to focus on African-American women.

BET’s first variety and sketch comedy show, 50 Central, hosted by 50 Cent, will feature sketches, hidden-camera pranks, musical performances and A-list celebrity guests. The late-night program will consist of 24 half-hour episodes. Other shows in the comedy and late-night space include Divorce Saved My Marriage from Kevin Hart, The Rundown with Robin Thede, BET’s Mancave, Face Value from Wanda Sykes and the social experiment show Love Room.

BET also unveiled new miniseries at its Upfront. These include The Bobby Brown Story and Death Row Chronicles. Returning original dramas are The Quad, The Breaks and Hit the Floor. Specials and tentpole events coming to BET include special editions of Lip Sync Battle, the BET Awards, BET Experience, BET Hip Hop Awards, Black Girls Rock!, Soul Train Awards and Soul Train Weekend.

In addition, BET’s sister network Centric is being refreshed as BET Her. It will target African-American women between the ages of 25 and 54. BET Her will focus on music, culture, travel and lifestyle and will officially launch on October 1.

The network also revealed that it has joined forces with Twitter for the first-ever industry analysis of the overall impact and importance of “Black Twitter,” a digital watercooler where African Americans exchange ideas and opinions that are centered on the Black experience. The analysis includes a set of top Twitter hashtags, and early data supports a strong correlation between tweeting and watching live TV at home via traditional delivery methods. Twitter and BET will release findings in a joint session in June.

“Over the last 37 years, BET has cultivated a deep and lasting relationship with our viewers, as we remain the premier destination for lovers of African-American culture,” said Debra Lee, the chairman and CEO of BET Networks. “This year, we are saying yes to all things black, with more premium original programming and best-in-class tentpoles that reflect and invigorate our viewers. BET’s global influence is stronger than ever and we are continuing to expand beyond the television screen to impact our audience—and the world—across multiple platforms.”