BET Network has announced that they will join forces with actor/director Tyler Perry’s company, Tyler Perry Studios, for the new streaming service, BET+.
It has been described as a “premier subscription video-on-demand service” that will focus on African American audiences, and feature more than 1,000 hours worth of projects. The joint venture will consist of several Tyler Perry creations including movies, television shows, and stage plays. It will also incorporate brand new original shows and many other projects from various creators of color.
Tyler Perry recently spoke of his latest endeavor stating, “In our industry, the way people consume content is constantly evolving. 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.”
Scott Mills, the President of BET Networks, also made a statement about the new platform. He said, “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.
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.”
Mills then expressed his excitement for the networks upcoming collaboration with Perry, “Tyler Perry is the perfect partner for BET+. The combination of new, original shows and his giant library of popular movies, series, and stage plays that Tyler brings to our joint venture creates an amazing product for his large and passionate fan base.”
Premiering on the service will be writer Tracy Oliver’s remake the 1996 comedy “First Wives Club,” a 10-episode drama series and the first BET+ original.
Grammy-award winner Jill Scott, Michelle Buteau, and Ryan Michelle Bathe are set as the main characters.
A series from producer Will Packer and brand new originals from Tyler Perry will also make their debut.
BET+ is expected to launch in the Fall and will be accessible on the Android, iOs, and other streaming resources.
Nia Primus
