Who Owns BET?

Paramount Global currently owns BET (Black Entertainment Television). Founded in 1980 by Robert L. Johnson, BET initially served as a niche cable channel for African American audiences. It quickly gained popularity with programming that included music videos, news, entertainment, and diverse shows catering to the Black community.

In 2000, Viacom Inc. (later Viacom Global, now Paramount Global) acquired BET for $3 billion. This acquisition was a landmark moment in media, integrating BET into a major media conglomerate.

Under Paramount, BET remains a leading entertainment brand focused on Black culture, offering diverse programming across channels like BET Her, BET Gospel, BET Hip-Hop, BET Jams, and BET Soul. The network also produces documentaries, movies, and sponsors the annual BET Awards, celebrating Black excellence in music, entertainment, and sports.

Paramount Global’s portfolio includes numerous other prominent media brands, solidifying its position in the entertainment industry. Acquiring BET allowed Viacom (now Paramount) to expand its reach within the African American market and diversify its content. This strategic move reflected the growing influence of Black consumers in media.

BET reaches approximately 90 million households globally, highlighting its impact as a major media outlet. Beyond television, BET has diversified into ventures like book publishing and event production, further amplifying its cultural influence.