BET Networks is definitely hitting its stride with new, original programming to entice viewers and bring in a more diverse audience.
At its annual Upfront presentation, the network unveiled several new scripted and reality shows, as well as never before seen films on television. Leading the way is former CNN news anchor T.J. Holmes and his late night series Don’t Sleep With T.J. Holmes.
Related: News Anchor T.J. Holmes Says Bye CNN, Hello BET
The new show is said to join the ranks of Jon Stewart, Steven Colbert and Bill Maher with comedic correspondents speaking about today’s hot-button issues. Don’t Sleep will report with ”keen focus to keep Black America engaged and in the know.” The show will also feature new and unexpected musical performances.
If viewers can think back to the 2011 BET Awards, they might remember a certain House Husbands skit featuring Kevin Hart, Nelly, Bobby Brown, Anthony Anderson and Nick Cannon. The hilarious bit has now been transformed into a new scripted series for the network that spoofs the fill-in-the-blank Wives franchise. Hart has been cast as a lead character.
Judge Greg Mathis will bring together local volunteers and law enforcement to tackle unsolved homicides in his new docu-series The Mathis Project. The aim is close cases with thorough investigations and help from the community.
Related: BET’s ‘The Game’ Suits Up For Another Season
Earlier in the year, we gave you a heads about Larenz Tate‘s new original drama Gun Hill and a Wayans Bros. reality show Second Generation which follows Damien Dante Wayans and Craig Wayans “breaking away” from their famous uncles.
The critically acclaimed Sundance hit LUV, starring Common and Danny Glover, is one of three never before seen films on television to be featured on BET. Middle of Nowhere and The Mindless Behavior Project are also set to premiere.
And with the renewal of The Game, Let’s Stay Together and Reed Between the Lines, BET’s upcoming line-up has something for everyone.
Check out the full presentation here with all the details!