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Big Plans For BET Programming

Mediaweek , Thursday, April 19, 2007 10:32 AM

BET Networks is rolling out the most ambitious programming lineup in its history, with six new original series, including some scripted fare. Over the last few years, parent Viacom has given BET's a bigger budget, freeing it from dependence on syndicated and off-net shows. One new project in the works is "Somebodies," a single-camera sitcom about a group of post-collegiate slackers based on a 2006 film.

It is slated to come out in the fourth quarter of this year. Scripted comedy might seem to be a stretch for the cable net, but BET president, media sales, Louis Carr says it is worth a try: "Scripted comedies are very expensive to make, but with the increase of our programming budget, we were able to make that leap." He says the move isn't a surprise, since "our viewers and advertising partners wanted us to move into this space anyway."

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