THE OBENSON REPORT

Covering Cinema From All Across The African Diaspora

New Black Cable TV Network? Hmm...

I think it's clear that there's STILL an opening for a black TV network, despite the existence of both BET and TV-One. I'm surprised that there haven't been more attempts, given the disappointing reception that the currently operating stations have received over the years - notably BET. If I had the resources, or access to the necessary resources, I would have certainly taken on the challenge. There's a lot of room for improvement and eventual financial success, because we are still without a definite crowned champion in the field, which makes it even more attractive for anyone willing and able to enter the market, and eventually dominate - given the right mix of style and substance in its content, of course.

Will Master P... I mean Percy Miller's venture become what we all wish BET and TV-One already were?

Who knows? We'll learn in time. But his quote stating, "I believe that there is a market in our community for a new diverse network that provides a new brand of superior programming that caters to all aspects of television, from reality to original programming," is inspiring, and hopeful. Let's hope that he keeps that promise!!

The new cable network called Better Black Television (BBTV), is set to debut in 2009, and will provide "positive content for a black and brown culture," and unofficially compete with BET for viewers.

Content will include "a wide range of scripted, unscripted and news programming, including drama and comedy series, movies, animation, reality, politics, sports and entertainment news, children's educational and teen programming, as well as "responsible hip-hop music and videos."

The fact that Denzel Washington is on the network's advisory board, is somewhat encouraging. I certainly wouldn't expect Denzel to attach himself and his reputation to anything that didn't meet certain standards... but who knows?

BBTV's programming in the works include the following:

* "Sunset and Vine": Video show that will showcase the top hip-hop and R&B acts as well as play classic videos.

* "One Shot Comedy Show": Comedy show featuring established and upcoming comedians.

* "Gee Gee the Giraffe": Children's educational show (will air Saturday morning on BBTV Kids).

* "Manage Your Money": Featuring financially successful people lending tips to promote financial literacy.

* "Karma TV Show": Bilingual soap opera with an African-American and Latino cast.

* "What's Cooking TV Show": Talk show that covers wide aspects of entertainment and current events while cooking healthy, budget-conscious meals.

* "The Black List Movies": Film showcase featuring classic and contemporary movies, as well as original BBTV productions.

As I said above... we'll just have to wait and see. Profit is king, so, while P. Miller might have the best of intentions for the station and its potential audience going into this venture, profit will always supersede substance. I think anyone who seriously wants to engender change should be prepared to lose a lot of money, at least initially, and ride out some hard times early on, be patient, and in time, audiences will respond, provided the content remains prime. But I certainly applaud the man for the effort.

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