BET and Tyler Perry Team Up to Launch BET+ Streaming Service
Paul Dailly
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BET is entering the streaming business.
The cabler has revealed that it will launch BET+, a brand new subscription VOD service that will focus on African American offerings.
While no specific launch date has been revealed, it has been confirmed by BET that it will be at some point in the fall.
The service will offer over 1,000 hours of ad-free content, which will be made up of original series, fan-favorite series, movies, and even specials.
What's more, The First Wives Club, which was originally in the works at Paramount Network, before being relocated to BET is on the move once again.
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It will be launching as an exclusive on BET+ in the fall. The series is based on the 1996 film of the same name and boasts a cast that includes Jill Scott (Black Lightning), Ryan Michelle Bathe (This Is Us), and Michelle Buteau (Enlisted).
They play three New York women who join forces when all of their marriages fall apart.
“African Americans are the leading consumers of streaming services, with higher SVOD adoption rates than other consumers, which is why we’re so excited to launch a premium product for this underserved audience,” said Scott Mills, president of BET Networks in a statement.
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“BET+ is a natural extension of BET’s linear network, which has been the leading home of black culture for decades. Our curated catalog and original programming will keep the BET+ content offering fresh, fueling subscriber growth, viewership and retention.”
“In our industry, the way people consume content is constantly evolving," said Tyler Perry.
"I’ve paid attention to my audience and what works for them and, for that reason, I’m very excited not only about the idea of partnering with BET to create new and exciting content, but also about the idea of giving people a personalized experience through the ability to curate the content they love to consume."
"On a personal level, this will also be the first time I’ll be working in areas like unscripted and variety television, which will afford me the opportunity to work in fresh, creative ways with new voices and to discover new talent."
As of this moment, BET+ will be available on iOS and Android devices, but more places to watch content are expected to be unveiled closer to the premiere date.
What do you think of this new streaming destination?
Hit the comments below.
Paul Dailly was an Associate Editor for TV Fanatic.Follow him on X.
