by Thinus Ferreira
ViacomCBS's BET channel is ending as a linear TV channel on pay-TV in the United Kingdom on 8 April and will switch to becoming an on-demand digital video streaming channel only.
Monde Twala, senior vice president and general manager for ViacomCBS Networks Africa and peer lead BET International, announced the end of BET as a linear pay-TV channel in the UK market in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
While BET remains a linear TV channel in South Africa and across sub-Saharan Africa, BET is transitioning to "a digital-first brand" in the UK.
It's not clear what the "digital-first" move for the UK, means for BET's "digital-first" aspirations for South Africa and Africa.
"We are committed to growing the BET brand in the United Kingdom and to continuing to elevate Black love, joy, power and pride worldwide."
"BET is an authentic destination for Black culture globally, and we are certain this move will strengthen the brand presence in the United Kingdom as we super-serve lovers of Black culture with rich and diverse content across our streaming services."
Monde Twala said that "By investing in local content and focusing our United Kingdom future on streaming, we can connect with a larger base of fans in a deeper, authentic and more meaningful way."
"Every market is different, but streaming is a key pillar in making sure that the BET brand resonates and is successful. It's about being where the audience is. What we want to make sure we do is become a significant destination for talent and serve audiences that follow Black culture and entertainment."
