BET Networks debuts CENTRIC entertainment channel today, replacing BET J

(September 28, 2009) CENTRIC, the 24-hour entertainment network featuring the artists, music, series, movies and reality programming that reflects the lifestyle and sophistication of today's African-American and multi-cultural adult, made its debut on Monday, September 28 at 6:00 a.m. ET. The CENTRIC brand replaces the BET J brand, and the channel will continue to focus on the influential 25 to 54-year-old viewer. With a new name, new brand and a renewed commitment to super-serving its core audience CENTRIC can be found on the major satellite, cable and telco providers.

CENTRIC kicks off the week with a series of shows that commemorate the legacy of Michael Jackson. On September 28, CENTRIC premieres the original episode of the classic music show, SOUL TRAIN featuring the late performer at 9:00 p.m. ET; followed by a half-hour in-depth profile, MJ: OUR ICON at 10:00 p.m. INSIDE THE MJ MANSION, an insightful documentary that gives viewers a personal snapshot into the singer's life at 11:00 p.m.; plus an electrifying block of Michael Jackson-inspired music videos showcased in a special episode of SOUL SESSIONS. CENTRIC also features a marathon of the best episodes from the beloved series "Fame".

This week CENTRIC will als air the original series LEADING MEN and LEADING WOMEN which intimately chronicle the dynamic lives of celebrities like Boris Kodjoe, Hill Harper, Brian McKnight, Dr. Maya Angelou, Iman, and Patti Labelle.

In November, CENTRIC will bring viewers the return of the highly-popular music awards show, THE SOUL TRAIN AWARDS, the music special that bridges the gap between the soulful sounds of yesterday and today. Taping at the famed Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, this star-studded two-hour special is slated to premiere on Sunday, November 29 at 9:00 p.m. The show will celebrate music's legacy by recognizing winners from various prestigious music categories and honor some of R&B music's notable icons. The special is guaranteed to take viewers on a soul-stirring ride through Soul Train's most memorable moments, as well as feature hot performances from today's hottest artists.

"This couldn't be a more perfect time to debut the Centric brand and build from BET J's strong music foundation, bringing a fresh offering dedicated to the African-American and multi-cultural adult audience," said Scott Mills, BET Networks President and Chief Operating Officer. "CENTRIC is all about reflecting the beautiful life that our audience has created for themselves and the one they are still reaching for. This is a time of profound cultural change and we are simply thrilled to have the opportunity to super-serve this audience, with compelling content that reflects their lives, tastes and aspirations."

"We are extremely proud to offer our audience a destination that strongly reflects who they are today," stated Paxton Baker, CENTRIC's General Manager and Executive Vice President. "We have really listened to our audience and understand where they are in their lives and what they are looking for. We know that it will take us some time to get there, but over the next few months we will be adding new original programming as well as a robust online offering that we will continue to grow. Additionally, through our strategic programming roll out, integrated marketing and digital elements, and cross-promotional efforts across BET Networks' platforms, CENTRIC will become the top destination for our audience to tune into 24/7."


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