Tyler Perry Emerges as Strong Contender to Acquire BET Brand
Amidst much anticipation surrounding the future buyer of the BET brand from Paramount Global, it seems that billionaire filmmaker and studio owner Tyler Perry is positioned as the frontrunner to become the next owner of BET.
In recent months, there has been considerable speculation as multiple individuals, including Hip Hop artists and moguls Sean “Diddy” Combs and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, have expressed their interest in acquiring BET.
According to a recent report from The Streamr, Tyler Perry is set to take over BET Media Group for an undisclosed sum. Notably, Perry had previously signed a multi-year joint venture agreement between Tyler Perry Studios and the BET+ streaming service.
Several BET+ productions, such as “All the Queen’s Men” and “Ruthless,” have been filmed at Tyler Perry Studios in Georgia. If Perry successfully finalizes the deal to acquire BET Media Group, he will also assume control of the VH1 network.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in April 2023, Tyler Perry dispelled any rumors and affirmed his interest in potentially purchasing BET, stating, “Rumor? No, it’s not a rumor. I’ve been there for four years now and had tremendous success.” The 53-year-old Atlanta resident expressed his strong desire to secure as much of the brand as possible, saying, “If it’s possible, I’m gonna take as much of it as I can.”
Tyler Perry is widely recognized for his portrayal of the character Mabel “Madea” Simmons in numerous stage plays and movies, including the 2022 Netflix film “A Madea Homecoming.”
The BET cable channel, launched by Robert L. Johnson in January 1980, has been home to iconic programs such as “Teen Summit,” “Rap City,” “The Game,” “College Hill,” “The New Edition Story,” and “The Breakfast Club.”
