During its annual upfront presentation yesterday, BET Networks revealed a new, reinvigorated direction for the company at New York City’s Nokia Theatre. Touting “This Is The Time,” BET Networks unveiled new shows, a new brand strategy, research and consumer insights, and the launch of a new cable network in Q4, CENTRIC, in cooperation with MTV Networks. During the Upfront presentation, BET announced several new original series, including:
— THE MO’NIQUE SHOW, the network’s new nightly talk/variety show featuring the incomparable actress/comedienne;
— CHANGING LANES, in partnership with The 909 Group and NASCAR Media Group, a unique and exciting series chronicling the search for the sport’s next generation of drivers;
— CREWS CONTROL, a reality series about the life of talented actor Terry Crews (Everybody Hates Chris, Terminator Salvation), his wife Rebecca and their five kids;
— MONICA: STILL STANDING, a new docu-drama following the GRAMMY Award-winning artist as she balances raising a young family and making her comeback in the music industry; and
— THE HOLLYWOOD TREATMENT, a powerful reality series that pairs celebrities with individuals looking to transform their lives.
Returning series include 106 & PARK, the #1 music variety show on cable television; BET’s hit gospel competition series SUNDAY BEST; and the #1 new original series on BET in 2008, BROTHERS TO BRUTHA.
BET also announced its new entertainment and music channel, CENTRIC. This new network – aimed at today’s affluent, trend-setting, sophisticated African American adult – was created through the collective creative resources and expertise of BET Networks and MTV Networks, and is scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter of 2009 in nearly 45 million homes.
Programming on CENTRIC will include: KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES, which will follow the drama-filled lives of Houston’s high society; MODEL CITY, a series about young African American male models trying to make it in New York City; REAL LIFE DIVAS and LEADING MEN, profile shows about African American women and men who have impacted American culture; and URBAN LIVIN’, a chic lifestyle interior design show.
