• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, February 21, 2008

Since Philippe Dauman took over as Viacom CEO, he has touted the benefits of expanding the BET brand--whether into movies, overseas or elsewhere. Now, BET is launching a channel bringing some of the network's domestic hits--including "106 & Park," "Hell Date" and "College Hill"--to the UK.

A further example of Dauman's commitment to building the brand: The channel won't be called BET UK or some other fusion, just BET. The channel will be distributed to satellite subscribers starting at the end of the month in 8.8 million homes.

"We're thrilled to be able to bring high-quality, black cultural content to communities around the world and deliver on our commitment to expand the BET brand internationally ... to establish BET as the premiere destination for UK audiences to enjoy content that reflects the many viewpoints of the black experience," said Debra Lee, Chairman-CEO of BET Networks.

Michael Armstrong, head of BET's international operations, said some of the network's programming will be influenced by UK trends. "We look forward to partnering with the UK creative industry to give BET an even stronger British accent."

"106 & Park" is a music video countdown show; "Hell Date" is a reality show that plants a troublemaker on a date with an unsuspecting man or woman; and "College Hill" follows university students.

On multiple occasions, Dauman has trumpeted a BET Films line, apparently to be associated with corporate sibling Paramount, similar to the arrangement between Nickelodeon and MTV. He has also mentioned similar expansion opportunities for Comedy Central.