BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios Announce Production Has Begun on the Seventh Season Return of "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" and New Series "Tyler Perry's Assisted Living"

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios Announce Production Has Begun on the Seventh Season Return of "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" and New Series "Tyler Perry's Assisted Living" The hilarious comedy about retired fire chief Curtis Payne (LaVan Davis) and his lovely wife Ella (Cassi Davis Patton) picks up five years later as they continue to navigate the problems of life with their quirky modern-day family.

[via press release from BET]

BET NETWORKS AND TYLER PERRY STUDIOS ANNOUNCE PRODUCTION HAS BEGUN ON THE SEVENTH SEASON RETURN OF "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" AND NEW SERIES "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING" "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" Returns with Stars LaVan Davis, Cassi Davis Patton, Lance Gross, Demetria McKinney, China Anne McClain, Larramie "Doc" Shaw, Keshia Knight Pulliam, and Allen Payne "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING" Stars David Mann, Tamela Mann, J. Anthony Brown, Na'im Lynn, Courtney Nichole, Tayler Buck, Alex Henderson "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" and "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING" Are Filming at Tyler Perry Studios and Set to Premiere on BET Summer 2020 NEW YORK - February 4, 2020 - BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios announce the return of the hit series, "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" which has begun production on its seventh season. The hilarious comedy about retired fire chief Curtis Payne (LaVan Davis) and his lovely wife Ella (Cassi Davis Patton) picks up five years later as they continue to navigate the problems of life with their quirky modern-day family. Production is also underway for the new sitcom, "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING." After losing his job, Jeremy (Na'im Lynn), a patriarch of a young family with teenage children, decides to move to the backwoods of Georgia to help his crazy grandfather. Grandpa Vinny (J. Anthony Brown) has foolishly purchased a terribly run-down home for the elderly and he is in way over his head, but comedy ensues as Mr. Brown (David Mann) and Cora (Tamela Mann) show up at the right time as needy investors. Both series are set to premiere on BET in summer 2020. "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" and "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING" are executive produced, written, and directed by Tyler Perry. Michelle Sneed will also serve as Executive Producer of the series for Tyler Perry Studios. ABOUT THE "TYLER PERRY'S HOUSE OF PAYNE" CAST: LaVan Davis portrays Curtis Payne, the patriarch who is not afraid to speak his mind. Devoted husband to Ella and stern father to son, Calvin. He loves his family very much but prefers not to deal with them. Cassi Davis Patton portrays Ella Payne the matriarch who has a kind heart and a great sense of humor. She loves caring for her family and knows how to keep Curtis in line. Lance Gross portrays Calvin Payne the only child of Curtis and Ella. He is a devoted father to Calvin Jr. and Christian. Calvin has long struggled with finding his place but never lacks for trying. Demetria McKinney portrays Janine Payne who is married to CJ and is the mother of their four children. Janine had a past history with drug addiction, but with the support of her family overcame great odds and got the help she needed. China Anne McClain portrays Jazmine Payne, the daughter of CJ and Janine. Jazmine is the apple of her father's eye. She has faced the challenges of growing up and going to college. She was known to have a sarcastic side and to employ sly plans to get what she wanted as a little girl. Larramie "Doc" Shaw portrays Malik Payne the eldest son of CJ and Janine. He is smart but has unknowingly become a smaller version of his great-uncle Curtis. Keshia Knight Pulliam portrays Miranda who is married to Calvin, but they have had marriage problems. She is the stepmom to Calvin Jr. and is the mother of baby Christian. And Allen Payne as CJ Payne who is the nephew of Curtis and Ella, who raised him. He married his high school sweetheart, Janine and is the proud father of Malik, Jazmine, and twins Jayden and Hayden. CJ is the Fire Chief Commissioner. ABOUT THE "TYLER PERRY'S ASSISTED LIVING" CAST: David Mann plays Mr. Brown who reluctantly invests in a dilapidated assisted living facility. He agrees because he has deep-seated animosity towards Vinny, the current owner. Tamela Mann plays Cora, Mr. Brown's daughter who falls in love with the assisted living facility. She thinks it will be a good investment for herself and her father. J. Anthony Brown plays Vinny, Jeremy's grandfather. Vinny is living in a rundown assisted living facility and is growing weed. Na'im Lynn plays Jeremy who recently got laid off unexpectedly and travels to rural Georgia with his family to visit his grandfather. Courtney Nichole plays Leah, Jeremy's supportive wife. When she realizes that it may be Jeremy's inheritance, she suggests that they stay in Georgia and fix up and run the assisted living building. Tayler Buck plays Sandra, Leah and Jeremy's daughter who is a typical phone-obsessed teenager. Alex Henderson plays Philip, Leah and Jeremy's son who is a typical loudmouth teenager. About BET Networks BET Networks, a subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIACA, VIAC), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news, and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa, and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe. ABOUT TYLER PERRY STUDIOS Tyler Perry Studios is a state-of-the-art film and television production facility founded in 2006 by actor, producer, filmmaker, playwright, and philanthropist Tyler Perry. Located in Atlanta, Georgia on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson army base, the new 330-acre campus is one of the largest production studios in the country. It boasts a variety of shooting locations including 40 buildings on the national register of historic places, 12 purpose-built sound stages, 200 acres of green space and an expansive backlot.

BET Ratings

The Jaw-Dropping Midseason Finale of "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and New Episode of "Tyler Perry's Sistas" Delivered 3.5 Million Total Viewers P2+ BET further spins the numbers for Wednesday, January 22. [via press release from BET] The Jaw-Dropping Midseason Finale of "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and New Episode of "Tyler Perry's Sistas" Delivered 3.5 Million Total Viewers P2+ NEW YORK -- BET's hit original series, "Tyler Perry's The Oval" soars during its midseason finale on Wednesday, January 22 from 9pm-11pm ET, scoring 3.5 MM total viewers (Simulcast across BET and BET Her).* Engagement was at an all-time high on BET with "Tyler Perry's Sistas," retaining more than 100% of its lead in series, "Tyler Perry's The Oval." The Wednesday night episodes of "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and "Tyler Perry's Sistas," also logged double-digits-L+3 ratings lift vs. their LSD numbers, +50% and +63% respectively. "Tyler Perry's The Oval" nabs multiple #1 rankings including: #1 New scripted cable series for general market P18-49 & P2** #1 Viewed show on TV for the night for AA viewers P2+ (1/22/20)** #1 Most Social Cable Drama on TV for the night (1/22/20)*** "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and "Tyler Perry's Sistas," delivered the following**: "Tyler Perry's The Oval" midseason finale recorded: .877 P18-49 rating Live+3, 1.8 M total viewers P2+ (Simulcast across BET and BET Her); .832 P18-49 rating Live+3, and 1.7M total viewers P2+ (on BET alone). "Tyler Perry's Sistas" episode #112 recorded: .965 P18-49 rating Live+3, 1.7M total viewers P2+ (Simulcast across BET and BET Her); .915 P18-49 rating Live+3, and 1.6M total viewers P2+ (on BET alone). Social highlights for "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and "Tyler Perry's Sistas" include***: "Tyler Perry's The Oval" was the #1 Most Social Cable Drama on TV on Wednesday, January 22 (1/22/20). To date, there have been over 33M social streams for "Tyler Perry's The Oval." "Tyler Perry's Sistas" was the #2 Most Social Cable Drama on TV on Wednesday, January 22 (1/22/20). #SistasOnBET trended in the top 10 consecutively for 2 hours in the US. It peaked at #5 from 11pm-12am. "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and "Tyler Perry's Sistas" are executive produced, written, and directed by Tyler Perry. Michelle Sneed serves as Executive Producer of both series for Tyler Perry Studios. "Tyler Perry's The Oval" will return in the spring and fans can stream and binge the first 12 episodes now on BET+ (BET.com/BETPlus.) About "Tyler Perry's The Oval" Secrets. Power. Revenge. The one-hour drama, "Tyler Perry's The Oval" tells the story of a family placed in the White House by people of power while also highlighting the personal side and everyday lives of the staff who run the inner workings of the nation's most iconic residence. "Tyler Perry's The Oval," stars Ed Quinn, Kron Moore, Javon Johnson, Ptosha Storey, Vaughn Hebron, Teesha Renee, Paige Hurd, Daniel Croix Henderson, Lodric Collins, Ciera Payton, Walter Fauntleroy, Taja V. Simpson, Brad Benedict, Travis Cure and Matthew Law. New episodes of "Tyler Perry's The Oval" will return in the spring. #TheOvalOnBET About "Tyler Perry's Sistas" "Tyler Perry's Sistas" follows a group of single black females as they navigate their "complicated love lives," careers and friendship through the ups-and-downs of living in a modern world of social media and unrealistic relationship goals. The one-hour drama takes viewers on a roller coaster ride of emotions and hilarious moments that are the epitome of #squadgoals. They may be single but never solo. "Tyler Perry's Sistas," stars KJ Smith, Mignon, Ebony Obsidian, Novi Brown, DeVale Ellis, Chido Nwokocha, Anthony Dalton, Brian Jordan Jr. and Kevin Walton. "Tyler Perry's Sistas" airs Wednesdays at 10 PM ET on BET and BET Her. #SistasOnBET In the next episode of "Tyler Perry's Sistas," titled "In front of me," Karen's world is rocked when blood is on her hands. Sabrina is in for a big surprise with one of Maurice's scheme's. Danni plays "middle-man" to some troubling news. Trouble in paradise causes Andi to make a hard decision. New episodes of "Tyler Perry's Sistas," airs Wednesdays at a NEW Time 9 PM ET/PT on BET and BET Her. For more information on "Tyler Perry's The Oval" and "Tyler Perry's Sistas" log on to BET.com. *Source: Nielsen | Live+3 | Cumulative sum of average impressions across BET & BET Her premiere telecasts of Oval & Sistas 1/22/20 **Source: Nielsen | Live+3 for midseason finale performance | L+SD for rank among competitive from 9-30-19 through 1/23/20 | 2+ telecast min ***Source: Nielsen Social Content Ratings, linear program-level total interactions, 1/22/20; Sprinklr, YouTube Analytics, Tubular, 8/1/19-1/22/20; Trend24, 1/22/20-1/23/20. About BET Networks BET Networks, a subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIACA, VIAC), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe. About Tyler Perry Studios Tyler Perry Studios is a state-of-the art film and television production facility founded in 2006 by actor, producer, filmmaker, playwright and philanthropist Tyler Perry. Located in Atlanta, Georgia on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson army base, the new 330-acre campus is one of the largest production studios in the country. It boasts a variety of shooting locations including 40 buildings on the national register of historic places, 12 purpose-built sound stages, 200 acres of green space and an expansive backlot.

"The BET Social Awards" Owned Social - Rising as the #1 Most Social Cable Special of February 2018
BET further spins the numbers for Sunday, February 11.

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[via press release from BET] "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" Owned Social
RISING AS THE #1 MOST SOCIAL CABLE SPECIAL OF FEBRUARY 2018*
THE INAUGURAL AWARDS SHOW IS NOW THE #1 CABLE SPECIAL OF CY18 AMONG AFRICAN-AMERICAN MILLENIALS 18-34**

THE BET IT GIRLS' PARTICIPATION AT "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" WEEKEND GARNERED A TOTAL 133.4MM IMPRESSION ACROSS TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM***
NEW YORK -- The live premiere of the "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" on Sunday, February 11 owned social, with over 16 million impressions on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Rising as the #1 most social cable special of February 2018, the inaugural awards show had the millennial audience on lock on all screens making it the #1 cable special of CY 18 for African-American millennials 18-34**. Additionally, "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" garnered 2.2MM video views across BET's social platforms.* Hosted by Michael Blackson "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" delivered a night packed with thrilling performances and unforgettable moments from Erykah Badu, Tony Rock, Justin Combs, Amanda Seales, DC Young Fly, Reginae Carter, YFN Lucci, Symone Sanders, Kash Doll, Blame it on Kway, Lala SizaHands, Amara La Negra, Jess Hilarious and many more. Executive produced by Mike Epps, this first-of-its-kind awards show celebrated all things social media over the past year.

The high-energy social media celebration was a top trending topic for the entirety of the show surging on all social media platforms. The BET It Girls: Jasmine Luv, Leomie Anderson, Sandra Lambeck and Jasmin Brown gave viewers and all-access pass to "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" weekend garnering a total of 133.4MM Impressions across Twitter and Instagram***. The BET It Girls took their followers into ultimate VIP adventures through Atlanta culminating with a full 360 degree Facebook LIVE look at "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS". Additionally, after Amanda Seale's #BlackGirlMagic spoken word performance, there was a 257% spike in searches for "Black Girl Magic" on Google and Youtube.com.

On Desktop and Mobile web, "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" gained +179% growth in Video Views vs. same time period last year. Including the BET App and OTT, Video Views experienced a +84% increase vs. same time period last year. (Source: Adobe Analytics, Social Awards, Same Day (Sunday): 2/11/18 vs. 2/12/17).

In case you missed the show or a few seconds during the LIVE telecast due to equipment failure that got quickly resolved, watch all the must see moments now at BET.com/Social and on social platforms by following the hashtag #BETSocialAwards.

For a list of winners, performances and must-see moments visit www.bet.com/Social. Join the conversation on all social media platforms by using the hashtag: #BETSocialAwards.
Produced by BET Networks, "THE BET SOCIAL AWARDS" was executive produced by Mike Epps, Kyra Robinson and Eric Conte.

*(Source: Tubular Labs and Twitter Analytics, published videos 2/10-2/13/18)
**(Source: Linear- Nielsen. Live + Same Day. Measurement Period(s): CY18: 1/1/18-2/11/18 and BET Social Awards'18 premiere on 2/11/18 (vs. Prior 4 Weeks). Specials stat includes specials only. Ranked on Impressions (000)s. | Social- Nielsen Social Content Ratings. Specials only. 2017-18 Season (9/25/17-2/11/18). Ranked on Total Social Media Interactions.)

***(source: Obvious.ly. Twitter + Instagram Campaign over 4-day period: 2/9-2/12/18).

ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B ), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa, France and South Korea. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

BET Networks Wins 2017 as the Undisputed #1 Cable Network for African American Viewers
BET further spins the numbers for the year to date.

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[via press release from BET] BET NETWORKS WINS 2017 AS THE UNDISPUTED #1 CABLE NETWORK FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN VIEWERS
BET REMAINS THE #1 CABLE NET FOR 16 YEARS STRAIGHT AMONG AFRICAN AMERICANS 18-49 AND A TOP 20 CABLE NET AMONG ALL P18-49
THE NETWORK SCORES SEVEN CONSECUTIVE MONTHS OF RATINGS GAINS MARKING ITS LONGEST STREAK OF YEAR OVER YEAR INCREASES IN NEARLY 8 YEARS
BET SHUTS DOWN THE SOCIAL SPHERE AS THE #1 MOST SOCIALLY BUZZED ABOUT CABLE NETWORK OF CY2017 ACROSS FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
THE NETWORK WILL KICK OFF 2018 WITH RETURNING FAVORITES AND NEW SHOWS FROM STEVE HARVEY, MIKE EPPS AND TONY ROCK

NEW YORK, December 19, 2017-- BET Networks, (a subsidiary of Viacom Inc., NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), is closing out 2017 with record ratings growth and a slew of #1 rankings under its belt! While other networks court African American viewers, BET remains the undisputed #1 destination on cable for African-American viewers for 16 years straight among its core demo, African-American Adults 18-49 (CY02-CY17 YTD). With a broad appeal, the network also continues to rank in the Top 20 Cable Nets this year in the key P18-49 demo, as well as Adult Women 18-49. BET is also drawing younger viewers as it ranks among the Top 15 Cable Nets of CY2017 in total day for Millennials P18-34. From the record-breaking "New Edition Story" which bowed as the #1 Cable Biopic of ALL TIME, to BET's dominating tentpole awards shows, to hit BET Originals - BET is winning 2017!
BET's passionate fans propelled BET to be the #1 most socially buzzed-about cable network of CY2017 across Facebook and Twitter. In fact, BET claims 6 out of the Top 10 Most Social Cable Specials this year - including "BET Awards," "BET Hip Hop Awards," and "New Edition" to name a few - more than any cable net in the Top 10. The Network continues to reel in a fiercely enthusiastic fanbase with 7 months of consecutive year-over-year gains in CY17 - making this the highest streak of monthly YoY gains in nearly 8 years (since CY2009).

Now the Network is keeping up the momentum for 2018, as it announces its Winter 2018 programming lineup. BET will kick off January with two new series debuts - "Black Card Revoked" with Tony Rock and "BET's Mancave" from Steve Harvey; and two returning favorites - late night satire "The Rundown with Robin Thede" and HBCU campus drama "The Quad." The Network is also introducing the first ever "BET Social Awards" from Mike Epps celebrating the best (and worst) in social media, as well as BET's first legal procedural drama, "In Contempt" starring Erica Ash.
Check out how BET stacked up in 2017 below!

BET Remains #1 Cable Net for African American Viewers Across ALL Key Demos*
· BET is the #1 Cable Net for 16 Years Straight among Core Demo, African-American Adults 18-49 (CY02-CY17 YTD)

· BET is the #1 Cable Net of CY17 for African-American viewers across Key AA Demos, Women, and Teens

· AA Key Demos: AA P2+, AA P18-49, AA P25-54, AA P18+; AA Women Demos: AA W2+, AA W25-54, AA W35+; and African American Teens 12-17

· BET ranked as the #1 Cable Net in Primetime among African-American Adult Men 18+
BET is a Top 20 Cable Net for All Viewers & Top 15 Net For Millennials (Total Day)
· BET is a Top 20 Cable Net of CY2017 in total day among Target Demo, P18-49, Adult Women 18-49, Adults 25-54, Adult Women 25-54, and Millennial Men 18-34

· BET ranked among Top 15 Cable Nets of CY2017 in total day for Millennials P18-34 and Millennial Women 18-34

BET Closes 2017 with Historic Ratings Growth
· Amid a challenging TV environment, BET reports a ratings upswing with 7 months of consecutive double digit year-over-year gains in CY17 - making this the highest streak of monthly YoY gains in nearly 8 years (since CY2009)

· BET is 1 out of only 2 cable nets in the Top 20 to report year-over-year gains for CY2017
BET's "The New Edition Story" Was the Mini-Series Event of the Year**

· "The New Edition Story" bowed as the #1 Cable Biopic of All Time among Viewers 2+ and Adults 18-49, grossing 29MM TOTAL VIEWERS during its premiere week (Sum Totals)
BET Takes The Lion's Share Of Social Buzz***

· BET is the #1 most socially buzzed about cable network of CY2017 across Facebook and Twitter.
· BET has 6 out of the Top 10 Most Social Cable Specials this year - with BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, New Edition to name a few - more than any cable net in the top 10.

*Source: Live + Same Day | Measurement Period: CY02-CY17-to-Date by Year based on NHI Calendar (12/31/02-12/03/17)| Total Day = BET Total Day (Mon-Sa 8a-4a/Su 9a-12a), All Other Cable Nets Total Day as expressed in Nielsen platforms | Primetime (Mon-Su 8pm-11pm) | Ad-Supported Cable | Exclude Kids, Sports, News Ad-Supported Cable Networks, along with Ad-Supported Cable Networks that do not program 50% of 24 Hour Total Day | In 2016, BET tied with VH1 (110K Black P18-49 for both) | All Ranked on Impressions (000)s. | Subject to qualifications which will be supplied upon request.

**Source: 29MM Viewers. Source: Nielsen | Live + Same Day | New Edition Premiere Week (1/23-1/29/17) | Sum of the Average Audience refers additive sum of the 3-Part Premiere across BET & Centric plus 15 Encores on BET | Viewers 2+ Impressions (000) | #1 Cable Biopic of All Time Source: Nielsen | Live + Same Day | CY02-CY17 (12/31/02-09/24/17) | Biopics: New Edition Story (BET); VH1: TLC: Crazy, Sexy Cool, MC Hammer, MJ Man in the Mirror; Lifetime: Whitney; Toni Braxton, Brittney Spears, Anna Nicole, Full House, Saved by the Bell, Beverly Hills 90210, Craiglist Killer, Marilynn Monroe, Surviving Compton Miche'le, Natalee Holloway, Jodie Aria, Brittany Murphy, Liz & Dick, Amanda Knox, Casey Anthony, Carolina White, Cleveland Abduction, William & Kate, Gabby Douglas, Betty & Coretta, Lizzie Borden, Fantasia; and HBO: Bessie, Phil Spector, Liberace, Lyndon Johnson | Exclude Repeats | Reach based on P18-49, 6-Minute Qualifier. | All other rankings: Source: Nielsen | Live + Same Day | Measurement Period: 2016-17 BET Season (09/26/16-09/24/17) and CY17-to-date (12/26/16-12/3/17) | Primetime Mon-Sun 8pm-11pm | All Cable Programs, Excludes Repeats, Movies, Specials, Sports, and Programs with less than 2 airings | Ranked on Black P18-49 Impressions (000)s. | Subject to qualifications which will be supplied upon request.

***Source: Nielsen Social Content Ratings. Measurement Period(s): Q4'17 to date (9/25/17-11/23/17) and CY2017-to-date (1/1/17-11/26/17). Excludes Sport Events as well as Sports and News Networks. All Cable. Specials stats include Cable Specials only. Ranked on Total Social Media Interactions. | Eminem Video Views stat- Source: Multiplatform Stat from Sprinklr and Adobe Analytics.

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B ), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa, France and South Korea. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

BET Awards Wins Sunday Night & Remains #1 Cable Awards Show
BET spins the numbers for Sunday, June 25.

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[via press release from BET] THE 2017 "BET AWARDS" REIGNS SUPREME AS THE #1 CABLE AWARDS SHOW AMONG P18-49 FOR THE 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR (2015-2017) AND WINS THE NIGHT AS THE #1 TV SHOW AMONG P18-49 ON SUNDAY, JUNE 25
#BETAWARDS 2017 LIT UP THE SOCIAL-SPHERE AS THE #1 MOST SOCIAL PROGRAM OF THE WEEK AND #1 MOST SOCIAL CABLE SPECIAL OF 2017
"BET AWARDS" PROVES TO BE A POWERFUL MULTIPLATFORM PLAYER AS BET.COM VIEWS CATAPULT OVER 200% AND BET'S TV EVERYWHERE AND CONNECTED DEVICE APP VIEWS RISE 145%
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA(R) RETURNS FOR A FIFTH YEAR ATTRACTING THOUSANDS OF FANS TO DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

Los Angeles, CA - June 27, 2017 - The LIVE premiere of the 2017 "BET AWARDS" on Sunday, June 25, is now the #1 Cable Awards Show among P18-49 for the 2017 broadcast season, claiming the #1 spot for the third consecutive year. Additionally, the 2017 "BET AWARDS" continued its reign as television's #1 Cable Awards Show among African Americans 18-49 - retaining the title for 16 consecutive years ('02-'17 on BET alone). The best-in-class show ranked as the #1 TV Show on its Premiere Night among P18-49, as well as the #1 Ad-Supported Cable Show on Premiere Day (10 Years Straight among P18-49). Filled with buzzworthy moments, the 2017 "BET AWARDS" dominated social media as the #1 Most Social Program of the entire week, with a total of 10.5MM Total Interactions across Facebook and Twitter [Source: Nielsen Social Content Ratings, Weekly Report (6/19-6/25/17) Linear Episodes ranked on Total Interactions].

The premiere telecast of the 2017 "BET AWARDS" drew 5.8MM Total Viewers P2+ (EDAC) , as it was simulcast live across 9 Viacom networks including MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, Logo, Spike and Centric. In total, the 2017 "BET AWARDS" premiere reached 18.1MM P2+ and 8.5MM P18-49 (Awards only; EDAC). The premiere telecast garnered a 3.47 P18-49 (EDAC) rating across 9 Viacom Networks. Fans were treated to an immersive experience as the network broadcast live for seven hours including the BET Pre-Show (6-8 p.m. EST) and BET Post-Show (12 a.m. - 1 a.m. EST); as well as the 2017 "BET AWARDS" premiere (8 p.m. -12 a.m. EST) which garnered 3.8MM Total Viewers P2+ and a 2.3 P18-49 rating in the demo, on the network. Recognizing artists, entertainers, and athletes in over 20 categories, the 2017 "BET AWARDS" aired live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.*

BET Social Media blazed social timelines on multiple platforms with viewers documenting every moment of this celebrity filled and unforgettable night. The live telecast of 2017 "BET AWARDS" reigns again as the #1 Most Social Program of the WEEK and #1 Most Social Cable Special of 2017 [#3 on all TV; excluding political events]. A total of 10.5MM Total Interactions across Facebook and Twitter about "BET AWARDS" were generated by 3MM people in the U.S. On Snapchat, the event generated 53 MM Impressions (plays and views) of the custom BET Awards lens, as BET's hyper-engaged fans shared their snaps in real-time.

"BET AWARDS" continues to have an impassioned fanbase on Twitter, generating more interactions per person (7.1) than top broadcast specials. The 2017 "BET AWARDS" was also the #1 Most Social Episode of the Day on 6/25/17 (10.5MM). Black Twitter proved its mighty influence again as BET now has the Top 4 Most Social Cable Specials on Twitter of 2017 with "BET Awards" and "The New Edition Story"! [Source: Nielsen Social Content Ratings]

BET Digital's metrics soared across its sites and apps with engaging must-see "BET AWARDS" content. Video views grew an impressive +202% on BET.com and +145% across BET's TV-Everywhere and Connected Device Apps (vs. day of awards prior year). BET's first global live stream on Twitter, BET Awards Backstage: Access Granted, hosted by comedians, Chris Spencer ("Real Husbands of Hollywood") and Zainab Johnson ("Def Comedy Jam"), garnered 1.6MM unique viewers during the live airing. The BET Experience App saw significant growth in engagement and users versus last year as well (May 1 - day of awards, same time period for last year) with 27% more downloads, 105% more sessions and an average session time of 7 minutes. [Source: Adobe Analytics]

The 2017 "BET AWARDS" was hosted by comedian and actress Leslie Jones, of "Saturday Night Live" fame, in her first major award show hosting role. The night kicked off with an electrifying performance from Bruno Mars, and featured the highly-anticipated reunion performance of 90s R&B group, Xscape, as members Kandi Burruss and Tameka "Tiny" Cottle showed that they still have it. Original boy band superstars, New Edition, took home the Lifetime Achievement Award, and were honored with a showstopping tribute performance from the full cast of BET's smash biopic "The New Edition Story" that brought the crowd to its feet. In a special surprise taped message, former First Lady Michelle Obama introduced this year's Humanitarian Award to Chance the Rapper, who has raised over two million dollars for public schools in his hometown of Chicago. Additional highlights included performances from Chris Brown, Migos, DJ Khaled, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and Future; as well as appearances by Queen Latifah, Jamie Foxx, Issa Rae, Yara Shahidi, Solange Knowles, Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs, and Jada Pinkett Smith. For a list of winners, performances and must-see moments visit www.bet.com/betawards.

For the fifth consecutive year, the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola(R) attracted thousands of visitors to the downtown Los Angeles area for a 4-day music, comedy and entertainment festival. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the FREE Fan Fest included a series of family-friendly interactive activations; dynamic live concerts from today's hottest artists such as Cardi B, Young M.A., Dave East and PnB Rock; Genius Talks powered by AT&T including Issa Rae, Ava DuVernay, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Nick Cannon; Gospel Showcase and special broadcast editions of "106 & Park: Live from the 2017 BET Experience." The BET Experience also featured fan-favorite Sprite(R) Celebrity Basketball Game & Dunk Contest, as well as thrilling nightly concerts at STAPLES Center from A-list artists including DJ Khaled, Snoop, Bryson Tiller, Migos, Wiz Khalifa, Gucci Mane, A$AP Rocky, and Desiigner.
 
Official sponsors of the 2017 "B ET AWARDS" included Coca-Cola(R), sponsor of the Viewer's Choice Award for Favorite Song of the Year, and #BET Instastar Contest; Nissan North America, Inc., sponsor of the BET Music Stage and red carpet; Walmart, sponsor of the Humanitarian Award; and My Black is Beautiful, sponsor of Shine a Light Honorees.

The 2017 "BET AWARDS" took place in Los Angeles at the Microsoft Theater, along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola from June 22-25. The show aired live on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 8 p.m. EST/PST.

An additional encore viewing of the "BET AWARDS" 2017 aired immediately following the Post-show at 12:00am EST. Fans can catch additional airings on Tuesday, June 27th at 4pm EST, Thursday, June 29th at 8pm, and Saturday, July 1st at 1:30pm.
 
The 2017 "BET AWARDS" will premiere around the world on BET's international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Internationally, fans in 100 countries were also able to stream the 2017 "BET AWARDS" and red carpet live with BET Play, BET International's subscription video on demand application.

Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment served as Executive Producer. Connie Orlando, BET's Senior Vice President of Music and Specials, served as Executive Producer for BET Networks.
*Source: The Nielsen Company (Fast Nationals & StarMedia Reports) | Live + Same Day Data Stream | #1 Cable award show for 3 consecutive years refers to: 2016-17 BET Season-to-Date (09/26/16-06/25/17); 2015-16 BET Season (9/28/15-09/25/16); and 2014-15 BET Season (9/29/14-9/27/15) and #1 Cable Award show for 16 consecutive years refers to CY'02-CY'17-to-date Year Based on NHI Calendar (12/31/02-06/25/17) | Primetime Mon-Sun 8pm-11pm | All Cable Telecasts excluding repeats, sports, general drama, reality, and news | Ranked on Impressions (000)s. | Subject to qualifications which will be supplied upon request.

ABOUT "BET AWARDS"
The "BET AWARDS" is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The "BET AWARDS" franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.

ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

ABOUT AEG
AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Anschutz Corporation, owns, operates or consults with a collection of companies including over 100 of the world's preeminent facilities such as STAPLES Center (Los Angeles, CA), StubHub Center (Carson, CA), PlayStation Theater (Times Square, New York), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Shanghai, China), Qudos Bank Arena (Sydney, Australia), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Berlin, Germany), and The O2 arena and entertainment district (London, England). Developed by AEG, L.A. LIVE is a 4 million square foot / $2.5 billion downtown Los Angeles sports, & entertainment district featuring Microsoft Theater and a 54-story, 1001-room convention "headquarters" destination. In addition to overseeing privately held management shares of the Los Angeles Lakers, assets of AEG Sports include franchises such as the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and the Amgen Tour of California cycling stage race. Along with AEG Facilities, other global divisions include AEG Live, the world's second largest concert promotion and touring companies comprised of touring, festival, exhibition, broadcast, merchandise and special event divisions and AEG Global Partnerships, responsible for worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships, naming rights and other strategic partnerships. In 2010, AEG launched its AEG 1EARTH environmental program featuring the industry's first sustainability report while in 2011, AEG introduced AXS a comprehensive entertainment platform serving as the company's primary consumer brand including AXS Ticketing which provides fans the opportunity to purchase tickets directly from their favorite venues via a user-friendly ticketing interface, Examiner.com and the AXS TV network, a linear cable channel focusing on live entertainment and lifestyle programming available in nearly 40 million homes. AEG's European headquarters are located in London. Global headquarters are in Los Angeles. For more information, visit: www.aegworldwide.com.

BET's Smash Hit "The New Edition Story" Grossed 29 Million Total Viewers During Its Premiere Week
BET further spins the numbers for the mini-series to date.

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[via press release from BET] BET'S SMASH HIT "THE NEW EDITION STORY" GROSSED 29 MILLION TOTAL VIEWERS DURING ITS PREMIERE WEEK
BET AND THE MINISERIES DOMINATED DIGITAL THE #1 MOST SOCIAL TELEVISION NETWORK AND #1 MOST SOCIAL EPISODES FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE NIGHTS
"THE NEW EDITION STORY" ROCKED THE MUSIC INDUSTRY AS THE BAND CATAPULTED UP ITUNES CHARTS AND DROVE SHAZAM INTERACTIONS
LOS ANGELES,CA - JANUARY 31, 2017 - BET's buzzy 3-part biopic, "THE NEW EDITION STORY", is a bona fide phenomenon, attracting 29 Million Total Viewers P2+ to the miniseries during premiere week (including premiere telecasts and encores, across BET and Centric). On BET alone, the miniseries grossed 15.7MM viewers 18-49 and 28.4MM total viewers P2+ in its full premiere week (Live + Same Day viewing).

Premiere and Finale episodes of the special each drew 2.5MM viewers P18-49, and 4.2MM total viewers P2+ on BET alone for premiere telecasts (Live +Same Day viewing). In time-shifted viewing, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" 3-part average increased its audience by +33% (+844K P18-49 viewers) on Live +3, with a 3.87 (3.4MM P18-49) EDAC rating across BET and Centric. Viewership was remarkably steady with each premiere telecast drawing the following in Live +3 viewing:
· Part One: 3.3MM viewers P18-49, and 5.5MM total viewers P2+ on BET alone for the premiere telecast
· Part Two: 3.1MM P18-49, and 5.3MM total viewers P2+ on BET alone for the premiere telecast
· Part Three: 3.3MM viewers P18-49, and 5.6MM total viewers P2+ on BET alone for the premiere telecast (Preliminary Live +3 on Day 3) On BET alone, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" (Parts One and Three) were the highest rated and most watched telecasts in five years, since 2012 with the Season 5 premiere of "The Game" (excluding tentpoles), which launched the miniseries to be BET's #1 Week in recent history (excluding BET Awards week). "THE NEW EDITION STORY" aired three consecutive nights, premiering Tuesday, January 24th, Wednesday, January 25th, and wrapping Thursday, January 26th. The widely-lauded miniseries also racked up the following #1 designations:
· #1 Cable Telecast in Prime of FY17 among African Americans (P18-49)
· #1 and #2 Weeknight Telecasts of FY17 on ALL Cable (P18-49), excluding News & Sports
· #1 Cable Program in its Premiere Week (P18-49), excluding sports
· #1 Cable Telecast for 3 consecutive days (P18-49)
· #1 Most Social TV program for the 3rd consecutive days, with premiere telecasts totaling 6MM Social Media Interactions

"THE NEW EDITION STORY" also controlled the social media conversation as BET ranked as the #1 most social network on television** all three nights (January 24th-26th). Additionally, the special was the #1 most social episode on both Facebook and Twitter all three nights - outranking all other TV programs including cable, syndication and sports. Celebrities, press and viewers hit social media in droves to echo their love for the band and the miniseries, with 3.8 million people generating over 4.74 million interactions across Facebook and Twitter over the 3-day period. On Twitter, BET and "THE NEW EDITION STORY" drove the top 20 trending topics each night, with topics including #Betamax, #BobbyBrown, #CandyGirl, #MikeBivins, and #LukeJames. Over the weekend, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" continued to trend as BET aired a marathon of the special. Parts Two, One and Three ranked as numbers 2, 3 and 4, respectively, in the Nielsen Social top five cable and broadcast programs this past Saturday, January 28th (excluding sports).

"THE NEW EDITION STORY" made its mark on the music industry, as nostalgic fans pushed New Edition's songs and albums to the top of the iTunes charts. As of Friday, January 27th, New Edition's "Heartbreak" album skyrocketed to #14 on iTunes' US Albums Current Top 100 (making it the highest new entry), and New Editions' "Greatest Hits, Vol 1" climbed up 40 places to #22 on the same chart. On the Top 40 US R&B Song charts, New Edition claimed 7 of the top 20 spots. The band and its offshoots also scored 15 of the Top 40 US R&B Albums. The band's place in Hollywood history was codified on January 24th ahead of the premiere, as the group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, adjacent to fellow boy bands Boyz II Men, Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block.

BET's on-air partnership with Shazam garnered impressive engagement, as the program racked up hundreds of thousands of Shazams for all airings. The activation also drew over tens of thousands of entries into a sweepstakes, representing the most successful Shazam activation in BET history. The contest will send one lucky winner to BET's signature BET Awards in Los Angeles this June.
After 30 years of breaking hearts on the record and from the stage, New Edition finally received the biopic they so richly deserve. "THE NEW EDITION STORY" followed the group from their humble Boston beginnings to global megastardom - weathering the highs and lows of controversy, personnel changes, and the ultimate cost of fame. The multi-talented cast included Bryshere Y. Gray, Elijah Kelley, Luke James, Keith Powers, Algee Smith, and Woody McClain as the adult members of New Edition. Along with a stellar cast, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" included a collective of award-winning producers and directors including iconic music powerhouses James "Jimmy Jam" Harris, Terry Lewis and Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Executive Producer Jesse Collins and award-winning director Chris Robinson.

"THE NEW EDITION STORY" was executive produced by Jesse Collins (Real Husbands of Hollywood) for JCE Films, a division of Jesse Collins Entertainment; directed by Chris Robinson (ATL) and co-produced by Brooke Payne, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie DeVoe, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant and Bobby Brown.

For behind the scenes look at the making of the film, plus exclusive clips and photos from "THE NEW EDITION STORY", please visit BET.com/NewEdition and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #NewEditionBET.

*Source: BET AD Sales Research. All airings of The New Edition Story: Part 1-3 (1/24/17-1/26/17). Sum of average audience based on impressions. Reach based on 1 min qualifier.
**Source: Nielsen Social, Facebook & Twitter, ranked on Total Interactions

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B sted NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

About Jesse Collins Entertainment
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television's most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins is an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and the upcoming original miniseries based on the iconic music group New Edition. He has worked with a myriad of superstar talent including Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.

BET's "The New Edition Story" Scores 4.4 Million Total Viewers for Premiere Telecast
BET spins the numbers for Tuesday, January 24.

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[via press release from BET] NIGHT ONE OF BET'S "THE NEW EDITION STORY" SOARS TO SUCCESS WITH 2.6 MILLION VIEWERS P18-49 AND 4.4 MILLION TOTAL VIEWERS P2+ TUNING IN TO THE MINISERIES
BET DOMINATED DIGITAL AS THE #1 MOST SOCIAL TELEVISION NETWORK OF TUESDAY
PART TWO PREMIERES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, AT 9 PM ET/PT; PART THREE PREMIERES THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, AT 9 PM ET/PT ON BET NETWORKS

LOS ANGELES - JANUARY 25, 2017 - BET's highly anticipated 3-part miniseries, "THE NEW EDITION STORY", kicked off its first night with record-smashing ratings. The premiere telecast of the special drew 2.5MM viewers P18-49, and 4.2MM total viewers P2+ on BET*. Simulcast on BET's sister network Centric, the miniseries scored a combined 2.6MM viewers P18-49, and 4.4MM total viewers across both networks during its initial premiere on Tuesday, January 24th from 9pm-11pm ET. On BET alone, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" (Part One) was the highest rated and most watched telecast in five years, since 2012 with the Season 5 premiere of "The Game" (excluding tentpoles). "THE NEW EDITION STORY" continues tonight, Wednesday, January 25th at 9pm ET/PT, and concludes Thursday, January 26th at 9pm ET/PT.
  
"THE NEW EDITION STORY" (Part One) also dominated the social-sphere as BET ranked as the #1 most social network on television** on Tuesday, January 24th. The special was the #1 most social episode on both Facebook and Twitter, outranking all other TV programs including cable, syndication and sports. Across social platforms, 2.2 million people generated nearly 1 million interactions. On Twitter, BET and "THE NEW EDITION STORY" drove 12 of the top 20 trending topics of the night including #Betamax, #BobbyBrown, #CandyGirl, #MikeBivins, and #LukeJames. Interactions peaked during the live 10:30pm - 10:44pm window, as viewers applauded the transition of the band from boys to men.

After 30 years of breaking hearts on the record and from the stage, New Edition has finally gotten the biopic they so richly deserve. "THE NEW EDITION STORY" follows the group from their humble Boston beginnings to global megastardom - weathering the highs and lows of controversy, personnel changes, and the ultimate cost of fame. The multi-talented cast includes Bryshere Y. Gray, Elijah Kelley, Luke James, Keith Powers, Algee Smith, and Woody McClain as the adult members of New Edition. Along with a stellar cast, "THE NEW EDITION STORY" includes a collective of award-winning producers and directors including iconic music powerhouses James "Jimmy Jam" Harris, Terry Lewis and Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Executive Producer Jesse Collins and award-winning director Chris Robinson.

Part Two (2 hours) premieres tonight, Wednesday, January 25 at 9 PM ET/PT, chronicling the band's rise to fame, escalating tensions with Bobby Brown and Johnny Gill's addition to the group. Part Three (2 hours) premieres Thursday, January 26 at 9 PM ET/PT, which sees the group splinter into solo careers then attempt to reunite for an ill-fated reunion tour.

"THE NEW EDITION STORY" is executive produced by Jesse Collins (Real Husbands of Hollywood) for JCE Films, a division of Jesse Collins Entertainment; directed by Chris Robinson (ATL) and co-produced by Brooke Payne, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie DeVoe, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant and Bobby Brown.

For behind the scenes look at the making of the film, plus exclusive clips and photos from "THE NEW EDITION STORY", please visit BET.com/NewEdition and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #NewEditionBET.

*Source: Nielsen. Live + Same Day, Statistics qualifications based on highest rated stat (P18-49 Cvg Rtg) and Most Watched (P2+ (000)s). All simulcast based on additive sums.
**Source: Nielsen Social, Facebook & Twitter, ranked on Total Interactions

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B sted NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

About Jesse Collins Entertainment
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television's most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins is an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and the upcoming original miniseries based on the iconic music group New Edition. He has worked with a myriad of superstar talent including Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.

BET Networks Announces New Scripted Miniseries "Uptown"

BET Networks Announces New Scripted Miniseries "Uptown"
The three-part television event will tell the comprehensive story of Andre Harrell's iconic New York City record label, Uptown Records.

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[via press release from BET] BET Networks Announces New Scripted Miniseries "Uptown"
Based on the Iconic Record Label Uptown Records From the Founder and Entertainment Innovator Andre Harrell

Jesse Collins Entertainment and Harrell to Executive Produce the Series
Writers Charles Murray, Carlito Rodriguez and Barry Michael Cooper to Pen the Scripts for the Three-Night Television Event

NEW YORK -- Today, BET Networks announced new original scripted miniseries "Uptown." The three-part television event will tell the comprehensive story of Andre Harrell's iconic New York City record label, Uptown Records. Launched in 1986, following a joint venture deal with MCA, Andre Harrell's Uptown Records played a vital role in the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip hop, soul and R&B, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father MC, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean "Diddy" Combs and many more. Each gripping episode will take viewers from the label's inception to current day, featuring the music and powerhouse hit-makers that helped mold what would come to be known as the Uptown 'sound' and define a musical era that would impact generations to come. "Uptown" is scheduled to premiere on BET in 2020.

"We are proud to bring the story of Uptown Records to life and celebrate the indelible imprint the label has made on the industry, transforming the sound, face, and business of hip-hop and R&B," said Scott Mills, President, BET Networks. "We look forward to partnering with music industry titan Andre Harrell and powerhouse producer Jesse Collins on the Uptown miniseries, bringing viewers premium content that reflects and celebrates Black excellence."

"I am thrilled to partner with BET Networks and Jesse Collins Entertainment to share my story, the rise of Uptown Records and successful black entrepreneurship, and the management and cultivation of some of the most iconic artists to come out of the late 80s and 90s hip hop, R&B, and soul music era," said Andre Harrell.

"Andre Harrell is a true visionary and culture creator. It is such an honor to tell the story of a label and an icon that not only gave us such great music, but was the blueprint for black excellence through entertainment," said Jesse Collins, CEO, Jesse Collins Entertainment.

"Uptown" is executive produced by Jesse Collins ("The New Edition Story," "The Bobby Brown Story") for Jesse Collins Entertainment and Andre Harrell (Honey, "New York Undercover"). Writers Charles Murray ("Luke Cage," "Sons of Anarchy"), Carlito Rodriguez ("Empire," "The Leftovers") and Barry Michael Cooper (New Jack City, "She's Gotta Have It") have penned the scripts.

ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news, and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran and Emmy(R) Award nominee Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, the company has played an integral role in producing some of television's most memorable moments in music entertainment including groundbreaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. On the scripted side, JCE has produced numerous shows for BET including Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart as well as the critically acclaimed The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series. It posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. It was followed by The Bobby Brown Story, which chronicled the talented but troubled singer's exit from the popular '80s boy band through his solo success, and was the highest rated non-tentpole program on the network since The New Edition Story. The company's second season of American Soul, the critically-acclaimed period drama based on the untold rise of the iconic music and dance program Soul Train, will debut in 2020. For VH1, JCE has produced the network's annual Mother's Day special, Dear Mama and the hit game show Hip Hop Squares and for HBO, the hit comedy special, Amanda Seales I Be Knowin'. JCE also produced Rhythm and Flow where judges Cardi B, Chance the Rapper and T.I. searched for the next breakout hip-hop star in this music competition series for Netflix and Nashville Squares for CMT. Collins is also a producer for The Grammy Awards and was on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop 100 Power Players list. He has been featured in numerous publications including Ebony magazine's Power 100 issue and on the cover of Vibe magazine. Go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company. 

BET Networks Announces Second Season Pick up for Its Bold and Sexy Scripted Series "Games People Play"

BET Networks Announces Second Season Pick up for Its Bold and Sexy Scripted Series "Games People Play"
Season two cast members will be announced at a later date.

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[via press release from BET] BET Networks Announces Second Season Pick up for Its Bold and Sexy Scripted Series "GAMES PEOPLE PLAY"

NEW YORK -- Today BET Networks announced the second season pick-up for its smart, sexy drama series "GAMES PEOPLE PLAY." Starring Lauren London, Sarunas J. Jackson, Parker McKenna Posey, Karen Obilom and Jackie Long, season one of "GAMES PEOPLE PLAY" followed a desperate basketball wife trying to protect her family, a tenacious journalist struggling to rebuild a tarnished career, and a scandalous groupie looking to become a star, who all find it is murder trying to stay on top. In April 2019, fans were introduced to their newest guilty pleasure which left them at the edge of their seats every episode, culminating with the "killer" season one ending. Season two cast members will be announced at a later date.

"BET is home for lovers of black content that engages and entertains, and 'GAMES PEOPLE PLAY's first season over-delivered with a plotline that grips from episode one through the finale," says Scott Mills, President of BET Networks. "Tracey Edmonds, Angela Burt-Murray and Vanessa Middleton have been great partners on 'GAMES PEOPLE PLAY' and we're proud to continue our relationship, bringing our viewers the compelling programming they expect from our brand."

"We are thrilled to return and be able to give our fans more of the sexy, twisted, and unique storytelling that they enjoy and expect from every episode of 'GAMES PEOPLE PLAY," says Tracey Edmonds, EP/CEO of Edmonds Entertainment. "Our characters will continue to surprise and ignite in season two. I am grateful to Scott Mills for his continued support of our show and its vision."
"GAMES PEOPLE PLAY" reigned as the #1 new scripted cable series in FY19 among African-American 18-49 audience,* and has been hailed as the "perfect addition to your TV schedule" by Bustle. Based on the popular book by Angela Burt-Murray "Games Divas Play," "GAMES PEOPLE PLAY" is a sexy, stylized drama about the L.A. high life, where everyone plays to win.

"GAMES PEOPLE PLAY" is executive produced by Tracey Edmonds of Edmonds Entertainment, Angela Burt-Murray and Vanessa Middleton. Middleton also serves as the showrunner on the series.
*Source: Nielsen | Blk P18-49 | L+SD | 10/01/2018 - 9/29/2019 | Premieres only | Excludes Sports, News, and Telecast < 2

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA) (NASDAQ:VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa, France and South Korea. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe. 

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios Announce Perry's New Original Series for BET+, "Tyler Perry's Bruh" and "Tyler Perry's Ruthless," Expanding the Acclaimed Content Creator's Arsenal of Exclusive Programming for BET

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios Announce Perry's New Original Series for BET+, "Tyler Perry's Bruh" and "Tyler Perry's Ruthless," Expanding the Acclaimed Content Creator's Arsenal of Exclusive Programming for BET
The first series to complete production, "Tyler Perry's Bruh," produced by Perry exclusively for BET+, examines the world of dating, career, and friendship in a present-day society for a group of 30-something-year-old college friends.

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[via press release from BET] BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios Announce Perry's New Original Series for BET+, "Tyler Perry's Bruh" and "Tyler Perry's Ruthless," Expanding the Acclaimed Content Creator's Arsenal of Exclusive Programming for BET
"TYLER PERRY'S BRUH" AND "TYLER PERRY'S RUTHLESS" ARE WRITTEN, DIRECTED, AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY TYLER PERRY
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BARRY BREWER, MAHDI COCCI, PHILLIP MULLINGS JR., MONTI WASHINGTON, CHANDRA CURRELLEY, CANDICE RENEE, AND ALYSSA GOSS WILL STAR IN "TYLER PERRY'S BRUH"
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MELISSA L. WILLIAMS, MATT CEDEÑO, LENNY THOMAS, YVONNE SENAT JONES, BAADJA-LYNE ODUMS, JAIME CALLICA, NIRINE S. BROWN, BLUE KIMBLE, STEPHANIE CHARLES, HERVE CLERMONT, ANTHONY BLESS AND BOBBI BAKER JAMES WILL STAR IN "TYLER PERRY'S RUTHLESS"

NEW YORK -- On the heels of BET's new original series, "Tyler Perry's The Oval" claiming the #1 spot as the new scripted series for general market P18-49, P2+ for ALL of cable TV,* Tyler Perry expands his content offerings with two new original series for the network's premium streaming service BET+, "Tyler Perry's Bruh" and "Tyler Perry's Ruthless." The first series to complete production, "Tyler Perry's Bruh," produced by Perry exclusively for BET+, examines the world of dating, career, and friendship in a present-day society for a group of 30-something-year-old college friends. The second series currently in production, "Tyler Perry's Ruthless," will serve as a spin-off to the popular linear series "Tyler Perry's The Oval." The new one-hour drama follows a young woman named Ruth into the dark underworld of a fanatical religious cult. "Tyler Perry's Bruh" and "Tyler Perry's Ruthless" are written, directed and executive produced by Tyler Perry. Michelle Sneed will also serve as Executive Producer of the series for Tyler Perry Studios.

"I'm so grateful for the millions of fans who have been watching the new shows on BET. And this is only the beginning. I'm excited to bring these two new dynamic series to the BET+ family and continue to tell stories of high stakes drama with emerging talent," said Tyler Perry.

"Our landmark partnership with Tyler Perry is off to a fantastic start with the breakout success of The Oval, the #1 new scripted series on cable, and Sistas," said Scott Mills, President of BET Networks. "We're thrilled that Tyler has created these two exciting new series exclusively for our rapidly growing streaming service, BET+. Bruh and Ruthless will join BET+'s other hit original series, including Tracy Oliver's First Wives Club, Will Packet's Bigger and BET's American Gangster, and allow us to continue to super serve our subscribers' demand for premium original African American content."

About "Tyler Perry's Bruh"
Starring Barry Brewer ("Games People Play") playing John Watts, Mahdi Cocci ("The Gifted") playing Tom Brooks, Phillip Mullings Jr. ("American Soul") playing Mike Alexander, Monti Washington ("Games People Play") playing Bill Frazier, Chandra Currelley ("Madea's Big Happy Family") playing Alice Watts, Candice Renee ("BODIED") playing Regina and Alyssa Goss ("The Bobby Brown Story") playing Pamela, "Tyler Perry's Bruh," is a 30-minute original comedy premiering in 2020 on BET+. This group of "Bruhs" will unravel the stereotypes of African American men and manage to maintain their brother-like relationships, while finding love and fulfilling careers. #BruhTV

About "Tyler Perry's Ruthless"
"Tyler Perry's Ruthless" is a new one-hour drama premiering in 2020 on BET+. "Tyler Perry's Ruthless" is the riveting story of a young woman who becomes entangled in a scandalous cult of powerful sex-crazed fanatics, who she must now play along with until she can find a way to free herself and her young daughter. Melissa L. Williams ("Tyler Perry's The Oval") as Ruth Truesdale, Matt Cedeño, ("Power") as The Highest, Lenny Thomas ("The Blacklist") as Dikhan, Yvonne Senat Jones ("The Bobby Brown Story") as Tally, Baadja-Lyne Odums ("This is us") as Marva, Jaime Callica ("Unreal") as Brian, Nirine S. Brown ("Wicked: The Musical") as Lynn, Blue Kimble ("Being Mary Jane") as Andrew, Stephanie Charles ("The Paynes") as Sarah, Herve Clermont ("One Life To Live") as Mack, Anthony Bless ("Tyler Perry's Sistas") as Malcolm Green and Bobbi Baker James ("House of Payne") as Cynthia star in "Tyler Perry's Ruthless." Principal photography for "Tyler Perry's Ruthless" is underway at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. #RuthlessTV
The recently launched BET+ is the joint venture by BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios that offers a deep and diverse lineup of content, aimed to super-serve lovers of Black stories.
*Source: Nielsen (Npower)|LSD, Premieres airing M-Sun 7p-12a, 9/23/19-11/1/19, Cable Only excludes Kids, Sports, News and Spanish Programming and Sneak Peaks.

ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

ABOUT TYLER PERRY STUDIOS
Tyler Perry Studios is a state-of-the art film and television production facility founded in 2006 by actor, producer, filmmaker, playwright and philanthropist Tyler Perry. Located in Atlanta, Georgia on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson army base, the new 330-acre campus is one of the largest production studios in the country. It boasts a variety of shooting locations including 40 buildings on the national register of historic places, 12 purpose-built sound stages, 200 acres of green space and an expansive backlot. 

Angela Rye to Host BET News Town Hall Addressing Student Debt

Angela Rye to Host BET News Town Hall Addressing Student Debt
"Young Gifted and Broke: Our Student Loan Crisis" airs Sunday, September 15 at 8:00/7:00c.

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[via press release from BET] Angela Rye to Host BET News Town Hall Addressing Student Debt
"YOUNG GIFTED AND BROKE: OUR STUDENT LOAN CRISIS" PREMIERING SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 AT 8:00 P.M. ET/PT

#YOUNGGIFTEDBROKE
NEW YORK -- TODAY, BET announces it will broadcast a new primetime news special examining student loan debt and its disproportionate impact on African American students. The special is the first nationally-televised hour-long town hall aimed at the hot button student loan crisis. Hosted by political strategist and advocate, Angela Rye, this Town Hall looks to sound the alarm and pose solutions toward affecting change to what has become an American crisis. "YOUNG GIFTED AND BROKE: Our Student Loan Crisis" airs Sunday, September 15, 2019 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
For all students of color, especially African Americans, obtaining a college education can become financially crippling from high levels of unmanageable student debt. Our experts blame many causes, ranging from expensive for-profit colleges that aggressively market to poor students of color, to a widespread lack of financial literacy among first generation college students. Currently, the total outstanding student debt amount in America exceeds $1.5 trillion, mainly held by students from middle and lower-income households. Without a plan of action, this issue will only get worse for African Americans.

This one-hour Town Hall will feature analysis and commentary from policymakers in the CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS (CBC), experts in the education field and student borrowers impacted by this crisis.

SCHEDULED PANELISTS INCLUDE:
Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA), Chairman, House Education and Labor committee
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), co-sponsor with Sen. Bernie Sanders on a student loan debt cancellation bill currently in Congress
Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT), former National Teacher of the Year Award recipient, committee member House Education and Labor
Wayne A. I. Frederick (MD), Howard University President
Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, Washington Post Higher Education Reporter
Michael Arceneaux, Journalist and New York Times Bestselling Author
Tiffany Jones, The Education Trust Director of Higher Education Policy
Jessica Brown, Founder, College Gurl.com - student financial planning website

FEATURED GUESTS:
Jesse Williams, Actor and Activist, spokesman for "Scholly", an app that helps students find college scholarships

Christopher Gray, founder of "Scholly" scholarship app

John King Jr. CEO, The Education Trust; former Secretary of Education - Obama Administration
Brian Bridges, Author of UNCF Report "Fewer Resources, More Debt"

Loan Debt Burdens Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities"; UNCF Vice-president of research and member engagement

Morehouse Class of 2019 graduates, recipients of the Robert Smith gift to pay for their entire class's student debt.

For more information on "YOUNG GIFTED AND BROKE" visit www.bet.com. Viewers can also join this timely conversation by using the hashtag #YOUNGGIFTEDBROKE

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

About Angela Rye
Angela Rye is Principal and CEO of IMPACT Strategies, a political advocacy firm in the nation's capital. She is a CNN Political Commentator and NPR Political Analyst. She has been featured as an influential politico, lawyer, and advocate by several publications and outlets from Marie Claire to Ebony and the Washington Post, Rye has an unwavering commitment to ensuring positive change in the political process. Rye is a prominent strategist who has offered on-air commentary for several media outlets including BET, CNN, NBC, HBO, ABC, MSNBC and TV One. The depth of her dialogue ranges from political campaigns to more complex legislation and administration policies that have long-term implications nationally and internationally. She currently serves on the boards of the Congressional Black Caucus Institute, Congressional Black Caucus Political Action Committee (CBCPAC), the Seattle University School of Law Alumni, Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network, Inclusv, and Wilberforce University. She recently received an Honorary Doctorate from Wiley College. She is a member of The Links, Incorporated, National Bar Association, American Bar Association, and the Washington Government Relations Group. Rye served as the Executive Director and General Counsel to the Congressional Black Caucus for the 112th Congress. In her role as Executive Director, Rye was tasked with developing the overall legislative and political strategy for the Caucus. Prior to working for the CBC, she served as Senior Advisor and Counsel to the House Committee on Homeland Security under the leadership of Congressman Bennie G. Thompson. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Rye learned the importance of advocacy through her family's political and community activism. She is a proud graduate of the University of Washington and Seattle University School of Law. 

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios to Debut BET+ Thursday, September 19

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios to Debut BET+ Thursday, September 19
For $9.99 per month, BET+ will feature more than 1,000 hours of premium content, including exclusive new original programming and fan-favorite series, movies, and specials from BET Networks.

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[via press release from BET] BET NETWORKS AND TYLER PERRY STUDIOS TO DEBUT BET+ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
THE NEW PREMIUM SVOD PRODUCT WILL LAUNCH WITH MORE THAN 1,000 HOURS OF AD-FREE CONTENT INCLUDING ORIGINAL SERIES "FIRST WIVES CLUB" FROM TRACY OLIVER and, "BIGGER" FROM WILL PACKER as well as TYLER PERRY'S COLLECTED WORKS ACROSS FILM, TELEVISION, AND the STAGE, fan-FAVORITE SERIES, Documentaries, MOVIES, SPECIALS AND MORE
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a slate of multiple originals to roll out in the first year of BET+, ranging from THE ORIGINAL MOVIE "sacrifice" STARRING Paula Patton to a reimagining of the iconic docuseries "American Gangster" and much more
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For more information on BET+, visit bet.com/betplus.

NEW YORK, NY - Monday, September 9, 2019 - BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), and Tyler Perry Studios today announced that, BET+, their joint venture and premier subscription video-on demand service, will launch in the U.S. on Thursday, September 19. For $9.99 per month, BET+ will feature more than 1,000 hours of premium content, including exclusive new original programming and fan-favorite series, movies, and specials from BET Networks, as well as a host of leading African American content creators, including Tyler Perry, Tracy Oliver, Will Packer and more.

"We are thrilled to offer a streaming experience of content curated for the underserved African American audience with BET+. African Americans have a higher SVOD adoption rate than any other consumer base on the market, which is why BET+ is a natural complement of BET's linear network, which has been and continues to be the leading home of black culture for decades," said Scott Mills, President of BET Networks.

"In our first year, we will release a BET+ original project almost every month, adding to our lineup of deep and diverse content," said Devin Griffin, General Manager BET+. "We're focused on super-serving lovers of Black stories by working with top talent, and supporting fresh new voices, on both sides of the camera."

BET+ will offer consumers an original and diverse collection of premier African American-focused dramas, sitcoms, film, stand-up comedy, and specials in the streaming universe. It will also be the official home of Tyler Perry's collected works across film, television, and the stage. BET+ programming will be ad-free, with new titles added on a monthly basis.
BET+ will launch with several FIRSTS including:
First time Jill Scott will star and Tracy Oliver will executive produce a new series for BET+ with "First Wives Club."

First time Will Packer will executive produce a new series for BET + with "Bigger."
First time original series from Tyler Perry to premiere on a streaming service.
First time the beloved comedy series "Martin" will be available on a streaming a service.
First time the iconic BET comedy series, "Comic View" will be available on a streaming service.
First time Tyler Perry's stage plays will be available to viewers on a streaming service.
Premiering at launch, BET+ will feature new exclusive original series "First Wives Club" - a nine-episode scripted drama from acclaimed "Girls Trip" screenwriter Tracy Oliver - and "Bigger"- a ten-episode series from Will Packer, blockbuster hit-maker of titles such as "Ride Along" and "Think Like a Man."

"First Wives Club," the modern television remake of the classic 1996 revenge comedy starring Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler and Diane Keaton, now stars an all-star African American cast including Jill Scott, Ryan Michelle Bathe and Michelle Buteau. After neglecting their friendship, best friends Ari (Ryan Michelle Bathe), Hazel (Jill Scott) and Bree (Michelle Buteau) reunite to help each other through rough patches in their lives. Together, they navigate music superstar Hazel's tabloid-ridden divorce, campaign manager Ari's unsatisfying marriage and orthopedic surgeon Bree's cheating husband. Along the way, the women learn that as long as they have each other, there's nothing they can't do. All episodes will be made available at launch. Watch the series official trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

"BIGGER," a half hour scripted comedy starring Tanisha Long, Angell Conwell, Rasheda Crockett, Chase Anthony, and Tristen Winger, takes place in the East Atlanta neighborhood, Little Five Points. The series follows a single-black-woman who is dealing with the threat of marriage to a boring-in-bed boyfriend and the sudden, random death of a college acquaintance. The tragedy drives her ambitious group of friends to take a deeper look at their stagnant lives, asking themselves - is there something bigger and better in life. The first three episodes of the series will be made available at launch with additional new episodes rolling out on a weekly basis.

In addition to its new original content, BET+ will become the exclusive SVOD home to the beloved comedy series "Martin." This is the first time "Martin" will be available on a streaming service.
BET+ will house Tyler Perry's box office-topping theatrical films, including films from the "Madea" series; original series and a selection of Perry's stage plays: "Meet the Browns," "Daddy's Little Girls," "Temptation: Confessions Of A Marriage Counselor," and more.

BET+ will offer a premium selection of African American TV, movie and musical content including BET's beloved library series, films, documentaries, and specials such as "The Bobby Brown Story," "The New Edition Story," "Real Husbands of Hollywood," "The Quad," "Being Mary Jane," "Love & Happiness: An Obama Celebration, " "College Hill," "Comic View," "Hell Date," "Keyshia Cole: All In," "Nellyville" "Reed Between The Lines," "Ali: People's Champ," "Katrina: 10 Years Later," "Killer Curves," "BET Awards," "Hip Hop Awards," "Soul Train Awards," "Black Girls Rock," "Boomerang," "Harlem Nights," "Baby Boy," "Belly," "Coach Carter," "Coming To America," "Higher Learning," "Losing Isaiah," "Poetic Justice," "Tina Turner Live In Holland," and more will be available at launch.

In the coming months, BET+ will also feature stand-up comedy specials from D.L. Hughley, Eddie Griffin, Nick Cannon, Sasheer Zamata (Saturday Night Live), Lil Rel (Get Out), Gina Yashere (The Daily Show), Sinbad and more.

Library series from Viacom's Portfolio of BET sister networks, including VH1's "Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta," "Basketball Wives," "T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle," Comedy Central's "Why? With Hannibal Buress", MTV's "Todrick," TV Land's "Soul Man," Nick @ Night's "Instant Mom," and more will also join the service.

BET+ will be available at launch on mobile and connected TV devices with a dedicated web experience coming later this year.

BET will continue to feature new originals and loved series, including the Tyler Perry original series, "The Oval," and "Sistas" premiering Wednesday, October 9 on BET. BET fans will have additional access points to BET content on BET.com and the BET Now app for TV Everywhere users. In addition, BET's recently launched channel on Pluto TV, the leading free streaming television service in the U.S., will continue to feature hundreds of hours of classic films and box office hits from the best of black Hollywood.

For BET+ updates, exclusive social content and more follow the official hashtag #BETplus.
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ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

ABOUT TYLER PERRY STUDIOS
Tyler Perry Studios is a state-of-the art film and television production facility founded in 2006 by actor, producer, filmmaker, playwright and philanthropist Tyler Perry. Located in Atlanta, Georgia on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson army base, the new 330-acre campus is one of the largest production studios in the country. It boasts a variety of shooting locations including 40 buildings on the national register of historic places, 11 purpose-built sound stages, 200 acres of green space and an expansive backlot.

ABOUT VIACOM
Viacom creates entertainment experiences that drive conversation and culture around the world. Through television, film, digital media, live events, merchandise and solutions, our brands connect with diverse, young and young-at-heart audiences in more than 180 countries. 

The 2019 Black Girls Rock!(R) Awards Return to New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Sunday, August 25 Hosted by Emmy-Nominated Actress Niecy Nash

The 2019 Black Girls Rock!(R) Awards Return to New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Sunday, August 25 Hosted by Emmy-Nominated Actress Niecy Nash
The broadcast will premiere on Sunday, September 8 at 8:00/7:00c on BET.

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[via press release from BET] The 2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) Awards Return to New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Sunday, August 25 Hosted by Emmy-Nominated Actress Niecy Nash

The 2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) Celebrants Are: Angela Bassett, Regina King, Ciara, H.E.R., Debra Martin Chase, and The Mothers of the Movement (Sybrina Fulton, Geneva Reed Veal, Gwen Carr, Lucy McBath, Maria Hamilton & Cleopatra Pendleton-Cowley)

The 2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) Awards Premieres Sunday, September 8 at 8pm
NEW YORK -- BET Networks and Beverly Bond, CEO, Executive Producer and Creator of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) are excited to announce Emmy-nominated actress, Niecy Nash as host of The 2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) Awards on BET. This year's celebration will tape on Sunday, August 25, 2019 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, NJ. The broadcast will premiere on Sunday, September 8, 2019 at 8:00 P.M. ET/PT on BET.

The 2019 star-studded line up of celebrants include Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominated actress, director, and producer Angela Bassett (Icon Award), Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy-winning actress and director Regina King (Star Power Award), GRAMMY-Award? winning singer/songwriter Ciara (Rock Star Award), Academy Award and Emmy Award-nominated producer and industry trailblazer Debra Martin Chase (Shot Caller Award) two-time GRAMMY Award-winning musician H.E.R. (Young Gifted and Black Award), and activists The Mothers of The Movement Sybrina Fulton, Geneva Reed Veal, Gwen Carr, Lucy McBath, Maria Hamilton and Cleopatra Pendleton-Cowley (Community Change Agent Award).

"I am thrilled to host this year's BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards, said 2019 host, Niecy Nash. "We are celebrating Black women who serve the world with style, grace, class and sass! Our honorees are truly shining bright. In a room full of Black girl magic anything could happen! This is going to be an amazing event!"

Creator and Executive Producer, Beverly Bond added, "BLACK GIRLS ROCK(R) on BET is the mecca for Black girl brilliance. This show is the preeminent annual celebration of Black women and girl's influence across sectors and this year's cohort of celebrants are stellar examples of our illustrious contributions to the world." Bond continued, "Multifaceted actress Niecy Nash brings her own unique flavor of black girl magic as our host and we couldn't be more thrilled. Our lineup from host to honorees, performers and M.A.D. Girls all rock and I'm looking forward to presenting another empowering and dynamic show."

The 2018 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) Awards celebrants included: Mary J. Blige (Star Power Award); Judith Jamison (Living Legend Award); Naomi Campbell (Black Girl Magic Award); Lena Waithe (Shot Caller Award); and Tarana Burke (Community Change Agent Award). The show included special appearances by Ava DuVernay, Ciara, Misty Copeland, Naturi Naughton, Storm Reid, Niatia Kirkland; and memorable performances from Yolanda Adams, Tamia, H.E.R., Victory Boyd and Alvin Ailey Dance Theater's Jacqueline Green.

The televised special is a BET Networks, B.G.R. Enterprises Inc./BONDVISION MEDIA and Jesse Collins Entertainment production. The executive producers are Beverly Bond, creator and CEO of BLACK GIRLS ROCK! (R), Connie Orlando, Head of Original Programming & Production for BET Networks and Jesse Collins and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay of Jesse Collins Entertainment.

For updates or more information about BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R) visit http://www.BET.com/blackgirlsrock and www.blackgirlsrock.com
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to our social media platforms: On Twitter by using hashtag: #BLACKGIRLSROCK; follow us @BET and @BLACKGIRLSROCK On Facebook by liking the fan pages at facebook.com/BET and facebook.com/BLACKGIRLSROCK On Instagram @betnetworks and @BLACKGIRLSROCK

ABOUT BLACK GIRLS ROCK!(R):
Founded by celebrity DJ, model and executive producer Beverly Bond, The BLACK GIRLS ROCK! (R) Awards show was created to celebrate the nexus of achievements of exemplary women of color who break boundaries, blaze trails, and set trends across sectors. Since 2006, the annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK! (R)Awards has honored an outstanding range of accomplished and inspiring women across generations and genres. BLACK GIRLS ROCK! (R) has been committed to empowering women through media and enriching girls through leadership, education, and positive identity development programs. For additional information on BLACK GIRLS ROCK! (R), visit http://www.blackgirlsrock.com.

ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for black entertainment, music, culture and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET's growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full-service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, the company has played an integral role in producing some of television's most memorable moments in music entertainment including groundbreaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. On the scripted side, JCE has produced numerous shows for BET including Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart as well as the critically acclaimed The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series. It posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. It was followed by The Bobby Brown Story, which chronicled the talented but troubled singer's exit from the popular '80s boy band through his solo success and was the highest rated non-tentpole program on the network since The New Edition Story. The company's second season of American Soul, the critically-acclaimed period drama based on the untold rise of the iconic music and dance program Soul Train, will debut in 2020. Go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.

ABOUT NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey -- where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey's Town Square, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the State's and the world's best artists, while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted over seven million visitors (including more than one million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit http://www.njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information.