who own bet network Black Entertainment Television: A Change in Ownership – Black Entertainment Television, or BET as it’s more commonly known, is a channel that has been a staple in African American households for over four decades. But who exactly owns this popular network? The answer might surprise some.
From Humble Beginnings to Public Company
BET’s story starts back in 1980 with Robert L. Johnson. Johnson, a former cable lobbyist, envisioned a network that catered specifically to Black audiences. Initially, BET began as a programming block on another channel before launching as a standalone network in 1983. The network quickly gained popularity, becoming a go-to source for music videos, sitcoms, and shows that reflected Black culture.
By 1 991, BET had achieved a major milestone. It became the first Black-controlled company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. This was a significant moment, showcasing the growing influence of Black media and entrepreneurship.
Shifting Hands: Viacom Steps In
However, BET wouldn’t remain a public company for long. In 2000, media giant Viacom, which later became part of Paramount Global, acquired BET for a staggering $3 billion. This marked a turning point for the network. While BET retained a significant degree of creative freedom, it was now part of a much larger media conglomerate.
Viacom’s Influence and BET’s Expansion
Under Viacom’s ownership, BET continued to grow. The network launched several spin-off channels, including BET Her, which focuses on programming for Black women, and BET Jams, a channel dedicated to classic hip-hop and R&B music. BET also expanded its original programming, producing popular shows like “The Real” and “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne.”
The CBS Entertainment Group Enters the Picture
In a recent shift, Viacom went through a significant restructuring. The company divided itself into two separate entities: Paramount Global and ViacomCBS. BET, along with other networks like MTV and VH1, became part of Paramount Global under the CBS Entertainment Group.
What Does This Mean for BET?
While the ownership of BET has changed hands over the years, the network’s core mission of entertaining and empowering Black audiences remains the same. Being part of a large media conglomerate like Paramount Global provides BET with access to greater resources and a wider distribution network. This could allow BET to produce even more high-quality content and reach a larger audience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of BET
The future of BET seems bright. The network continues to be a leader in Black entertainment, and its recent inclusion within the CBS Entertainment Group opens doors for new possibilities. With its rich history and dedication to its audience, BET is sure to remain a cultural touchstone for generations to come.
Additional Notes: who own bet network
This article provides a basic overview of BET’s ownership. There are many other interesting details to explore, such as the impact of each ownership change on the network’s programming and content strategy.