Bounce TV, the nation’s only broadcast network for African Americans, announced its first-ever slate of upfront programming plans, including original new scripted and non-scripted series, series renewals, the return to broadcast television of one of the most-popular game shows in history, an exclusive new college sports rights deal and more.
“Bounce TV’s accelerated distribution growth, immediate popularity with viewers and strong initial ratings has made the network a new must-buy for brands seeking to reach the African American consumer,” commented Bounce TV Executive Vice President of Advertising Sales, Dennis Ray. “We are expanding our original programming efforts ahead of schedule to meet the demand and offer advertisers attractive fresh new programming.”
New original series, from Bounce TV:
My Crazy Roommate is an original scripted sitcom in the tradition of 2 Broke Girls, Laverne and Shirley and The Odd Couple. Two young African American women, from vastly different backgrounds, are forced together as roommates while each struggles to find her fame and fortune in Los Angeles. Created and Executive Produced by Bentley Kyle Evans (Martin, The Jamie Foxx Show) through his Bent Outta Shape Productions. Premieres Fall 2013.
Step Wars is an exciting original unscripted series set in the world of step competitions at the country’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The show follows the fraternities and sororities as they prepare for their big Homecoming events, and prepare to beat their rivals on stage. A mixture of personalities, rivalries, coaching from famous alumni and the sheer exhilaration of top-notch step routines comes together in each episode. Produced by Atlanta-based CSE. Premieres first quarter of 2014.
The Keepsake is an unscripted reality dating competition series. From diverse backgrounds and from across the country, five gorgeous women come together to compete for the affections of one handsome man. Their goal is to meet the love of their life and receive “The Keepsake” necklace that comes with being chosen as the winner. This first-class look at dating through an African American perspective takes our viewers from high-end hotels and restaurants to glamorous locales, as our contestants strive to win the attention of a recognizable bachelor from the world of sports or entertainment. Produced by Bounce TV Productions. Premieres Spring 2014.
BRKDWN is an original half-hour series delivering to viewers the pop culture stories of the moment. BRKDWN hosts have their ears to the streets and eyes on the tweets, and pull no punches as they deliver their distinctive perspective on today’s media-connected urban experience. Produced by Bunim/Murray Productions and Alchemy Networks. Premieres Fall 2013.
Bounce Beats: Profiles is a new half-hour series taking viewers backstage and behind the scenes with many R&B and contemporary urban musicians for candid conversations as they discuss their lives and careers. Beyonce, Alicia Keyes, Al Green, Wyclef Jean, and John Legend are featured among many others. Premieres Fall 2013.
Renewed/Returning Original Series:
Off The Chain, a half-hour family-friendly stand-up comedy series featuring the hottest African American comedians on the planet, has been renewed for a second season. OTC is hosted by Rodney Perry (The Monique Show) and produced by Bounce TV Productions. Season two premieres Fall 2013.
Bounce Beats is Bounce TV’s top 10 countdown of the hottest R&B and soul music videos in the country. Season two premieres Fall 2013.
New Acquisitions:
The Newlywed Game will be back on broadcast television on Bounce TV. Hosted by The View’s Sherri Shepherd, this new version is as wild and hilarious as the one viewer’s remember – but with a decidedly sassy and contemporary flavor. The Newlywed Game is produced by Embassy Row for GSN. Broadcast television premiere, debuts Fall 2013.
New Sports Rights:
Bounce TV announced a new exclusive sports right agreement with the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference which consists of Historically Black Colleges and Universities located in the southern United States for regular season football games in October and November plus the SIAC Conference Championship Game on November 16. The network also televises both football and basketball games from the nation’s largest African American athletic conference, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
