Viacom's BET channel is getting ready to launch its own subscription video-on-demand service (SVOD), BET+ that is set to launch around September this year.
The Wall Street Journal reports that BET+, aimed at black viewers in America, will include original movies and original scripted TV shows, along with content from other Viacom channels like Comedy Central, MTV and VH1.
Shows on BET+ will include the drama series First Wives Club based on the movie, and Peachtree Place, a 10-episode comedy that follows five 30-somethings living in Atlanta as they try to build their personal and professional lives.
At launch, BET+ will be available on Android devices, Amazon Fire, Roku and Apple TV.
Commercials for BET+ are expected to appear during the 2019 BET Awards taking place on 23 June in the United States and one will feature Tyler Perry in conversation about BET+ with his film ater ego Madea.
BET in the United States declined to comment.
Tyler Perry is onboard to promote and supply programming for BET+.
It's not clear if or when BET+ would be made available in South Africa and across sub-Saharan Africa by Viacom International Media Networks Africa (VIMN Africa).
The Walt Disney Company will launch its Disney+ streaming service in November, excluding South Africa and Africa, and WarnerMedia will also launch its as-yet-unnamed streaming service during the fourth quarter of 2019 in the United States as well.
Apple is also planning on launching Apple TV+ at the end of 2019.
