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Tyler Perry Strikes New Deal with BET; 8 Shows Renewed and New Series Ordered

April 18, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Tyler Perry just keeps winning, and BET Media Group is obviously pleased with its partnership with the film mogul because it just announced a new “comprehensive, multi-year content partnership.” As part of the deal, eight of Perry’s series across BET and BET+ were renewed, and one new series was ordered.

This will replace the original agreement that was due to expire this year. This will set Perry up to keep creating hundreds of new episodes for his existing shows on BET. Under the original agreement, Perry already produced over 700 episodes for both BET and BET+.

Expect the following shows to come back to BET:

Tyler Perry’s Sistas for an eighth season, Tyler Perry’s The Oval for a sixth season, Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne for a sixth season on BET (the 11th season overall for the latter, counting its TBS run). These Perry-produced series have been renewed at BET+: Tyler Perry’s Zatima, Tyler Perry’s Ruthless, Tyler Perry’s Bruh and All The Queen’s Men.

Route 187, a new series, was ordered as part of the deal, “featuring content executive produced, directed, and written by Tyler Perry.”

Scott Mills, BET Media Group’s President and CEO, said in a statement, “Tyler Perry is simply without rival as a creator of content that powerfully resonates with audiences across genres, formats, and platforms. Our programming partnership with Tyler – undoubtably the largest deal ever in the industry with a Black creator – has been hugely successful; delivering the number one series across all TV among Black audiences and five of the top 10 series on cable among Black viewers,” he said. “We are thrilled to extend our extraordinary relationship with Tyler and to continue to be the home of the largest and most diverse collection of new Tyler Perry content for years to come.”

Perry added, “Scott Mills and his team at BET have been incredibly supportive throughout our time working together, and I’m excited to continue bringing these stories to the screen. I’m grateful to our loyal audiences for watching week after week, and engaging these stories,” Perry also has deals in place at Prime Video and Netflix.

The post Tyler Perry Strikes New Deal with BET; 8 Shows Renewed and New Series Ordered first appeared on The Source.

The post Tyler Perry Strikes New Deal with BET; 8 Shows Renewed and New Series Ordered appeared first on The Source.

Debra L. Lee Net Worth 2024: What Is The Former CEO Of BET Worth?

April 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Debra L. Lee is a titan of the media and entertainment industry. He has amassed a net worth of $75 million by 2024, according to IAmGoldPanda. Her transformative leadership most notably defines Lee’s illustrious career as the CEO of BET Networks. She championed diversity and innovation. Her profound impact on the media landscape extends beyond her executive roles. It also encompassed significant contributions to corporate boards and philanthropic efforts.

Leadership At BET & Industry Impact

Debra L. Lee’s tenure at BET Networks marked a substantial growth and revitalization period for the brand. Under her leadership, BET expanded its programming and audience reach. It launched successful series and specials that resonated with Black American viewers. Lee’s strategic vision also involved diversifying content to include more serious, quality programming and ensuring that BET became a platform for discussing important social issues within the African American community. Her efforts helped to redefine the network’s image and prove its potential as a powerful voice in entertainment.

Board Memberships & Business Acumen

Beyond her operational success at BET, Debra L. Lee has served on the boards of several major corporations, including Twitter, Marriott, and Procter & Gamble. These roles have allowed her to influence wider business strategies and bring her expertise in media and branding to different industries. Her board memberships underscore her reputation as a savvy businesswoman and strategic thinker, qualities that have been instrumental in her financial success and in shaping her career beyond BET.

Philanthropy & Advocacy

Debra L. Lee is also known for her commitment to philanthropy and advocacy, particularly in education and the arts. She has been involved with organizations that support the arts and educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. Her philanthropic efforts are a testament to her belief in giving back to the community and using her position to effect positive change. This aspect of her career not only enhances her personal brand but also aligns with her professional endeavors to uplift and represent underserved communities.

The post Debra L. Lee Net Worth 2024: What Is The Former CEO Of BET Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

2024 Lineup Announced for Social Justice Now Film Festival

February 14, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Social Justice Now Film Festival is poised with its 2024 film lineup. The festival takes place during Black History Month from Feb. 22-24.

This year, the SJNFF will spotlight the highly anticipated BET+ film Kemba, a film directed by Kelley Kali and written by Christine Swanson.

Notable projects include How to Sue the Klan, a documentary shorts from director John Beder, and producers including civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, Cameron S. Mitchell, and Raji Ramanathan. Also Underwater Projects, which is directed by Dream Hampton and Liv Havstad, and the worldwide premiere of 848: The Criminalization of America, which Thomas Freeman, Jr, directs.

As reported in Shadow and Act, the festival’s mission, is presented by American Black Film Festival (ABFF) co-founders and producers Nicole and Jeff Friday’s Film Life Foundation, is “to watch, to reflect and to take action.” Per its description, the fest “provides a unique platform to showcase content that confronts the social and economic issues – racism, criminal justice reform, equity, education, and immigration rights facing Black and Brown communities. Through content from established and emerging filmmakers, along with engaging post-screening talkbacks with activists, authors and academics, the festival aims to amplify critical issues and encourage social change.”

“We believe in the power of film as a vehicle for social change,” from Festival Director Melanie Sharee in an official statement. “Thank you to SONY for believing in the mission of this festival and providing a home for filmmakers to share their perspectives, amplify marginalized voices and engage with the community.”

The SJNF kicks off at Sony Pictures Entertainment’s studio lot in Culver City. The studio, is the festival’s founding sponsor.

Here is the full festival lineup:

Thursday, February 22, 2024

7 p.m.

Kemba

Narrative Feature| 87 min

Director: Kelley Kali

Writer: Christine Swanson

Produced by: MPI Original Films

Producers: Rob Pfaltzgraff, Lana Link, Stacey Parks

Executive Producers: Nick Reid, Kemba Smith, Constance Orlando, Maureen Guthman

Cast: Nesta Cooper, Siddiq Saunderson, Sean Patrick Thomas, Michelle Hurd

A sheltered college student who falls in love with a man, only to learn he is a drug kingpin, finds herself in the middle of the government’s “war on drugs.”

Friday, February 23,2024

7 p.m.

The Fight for Black Lives

Documentary Feature | 72 min | LA Premiere

Producer/Director: Micere Keels

This film chronicles the ways that racial stress and the American healthcare system disadvantage the health of Black Americans.

Saturday, February 24, 2024

1 p.m.

848:The Criminalization of America

Documentary Feature | 76 min | World Premiere

Writer/Director: Thomas Freeman, Jr.

Producer: Demetrius Hill

Executive Producers: Akira Pray, Dr Ansari, Nathaniel Banks

A criminal justice documentary focusing on U.S. code 848 aka the Kingpin charge – this charge calls for “Drug Kingpins,” even non-violent ones, to spend life in prison. Even though the laws have changed, some non-violent offenders are still stuck in federal prison after serving more than 30 years. This is the story of the how, why and what we can do to help!

4 p.m.

Short Film Collection I

How to Sue the Klan

Documentary | 35 min

Director/Producer: John Beder

Producers: Benjamin Crump, Cameron S. Mitchell, Raji Ramanathan

How to Sue the Klan is the story of how five Black women from Chattanooga used legal ingenuity to take on the Ku Klux Klan in a historic 1982 civil case, fighting to hold the Klan accountable for their crimes and bring justice to their community. The women’s victory set a legal precedent that continues to inspire the ongoing fight against organized hate.

Bienvenidos a Los Angeles

Narrative | 17 min

Writer/Director: Lisa Cole

Producers: Vivian Johnson, Cindy Lu, Jolene Mendes, Benjamin O’Keefe, Lolia Etomi

Cast: Destiny Faith Nelson, Stacey Patino, Ethan Mendez, Rashmi Rustagi, Yvonne Huff Lee

The timely story of Imani, a Nigerian single mother living in Los Angeles, who offers to help a perfect stranger reunite with her son. In doing so, Imani learns this simple act of kindness threatens to jeopardize her own path to citizenship.

Breathe

Narrative |16 min

Writer/Director: Jamie Burton-Oare

Producer: Jamie Burton-Oare

Executive Producer: Shannon E. Riggs

Cast: Stephen Hill

For Eric, it is a normal day in his life/neighborhood. For the world, it’s the day Eric faces the reality of taking his last breath.

7 p.m.

Short Film Collection II

Underwater Projects

Documentary | 28 min | World Premiere

Co-Directors: Dream Hampton, Liv Havstad

Norfolk, Virginia is sinking. The already insufficient sea wall ends where a public housing project, St. Paul’s, begins. St. Paul’s housing projects’ residents are Black people. Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base and there is currently no public plan to prevent it from going underwater.

Silent Partner

Narrative | 16 min | LA Premiere

Director: Aristotle Torres

Writers: Aristotle Torres, Roderick Lawrence

Producer: Roderick Lawrence

Cast: Roderick Lawrence, Kara Young, Michael Park

Silas Jones is an accomplished, Black trial attorney on the cusp of making partner at a white-shoe law firm. Upon successfully defending a white woman charged with murdering a Black teen, Silas comes to a crossroads with his wife Kosi, an equally accomplished professor, as they prepare to attend the firm’s celebration. As the night progresses, Silas questions the legitimacy of his promotion. Will he make the ultimate sacrifice?

Somewhere

Musical Narrative | 13 min | LA Premiere

Writer/Director: Alexander Craven

Producers: Jeff Pifher, Shane Collins

Cast: Natalie Hanna Mendoza, John Robert Hall

When Elena and Cameron are ripped apart by an act of racism, both must stand up for what they believe to keep the door of love open.

The post 2024 Lineup Announced for Social Justice Now Film Festival first appeared on The Source.

The post 2024 Lineup Announced for Social Justice Now Film Festival appeared first on The Source.

Drake Takes A Victory Lap After Winning Super Bowl Bet, Fans Call Him “Zesty” For It

February 12, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake is someone who loves to wager whenever he has the chance. Overall, he had an amazing opportunity to do just that recently as it was the Super Bowl. However, instead of crafting a parlay like some people would do, he opted to do something else. He kept it simple and only bet on the Kansas City Chiefs to win. He bet over $1 million on the game which would ultimately double his money if they won. The rapper noted that he couldn’t bet against the Swifties, which is ultimately why he chose the Chiefs.

Last night, the big game was played and it was arguably one of the best Super Bowls ever. Sure, it was pretty boring in the first half, but the second half was elite as both teams went band for band. Eventually, the game went to overtime where the Chiefs were able to deliver a truly astounding win. Fans could not believe that Patrick Mahomes was able to take over and give himself a third Super Bowl win. That said, the win propelled Drake to a huge win on Stake, and he made sure to celebrate after the game.

Drake Takes The W

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In the clip above, Drake addresses one of the owners over at Stake, and how he wants his cash sooner rather than later. However, in true internet fashion, Drizzy was immediately called out for acting “zesty.” “Why he always reset to duck lips after uttering a word out,” one fan asked in the Akademiks comments section. “Bro I don’t think he joking anymore he’s really zesty,” said another. Needless to say, some fans out there are pretty ruthless as it pertains to the artist. No matter what, Drake just won over $1 million, so he is laughing at the haters.

Did you watch the Super Bowl? If so, were you happy with the results? Let us know in the comments section down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite artists and their upcoming releases.

The post Drake Takes A Victory Lap After Winning Super Bowl Bet, Fans Call Him “Zesty” For It appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Ludacris Announces TV Show Based On His Career, “Insecure” Producer Joins

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

One of the best rappers of the 2000s is developing a TV show based on his career beginnings, and it’s looking good so far. Moreover, Ludacris officially teased a series based on his origins as a radio DJ in the business, back when he went by Chris Lova Lova. His social media announcement followed a new article from The Hollywood Reporter about the project’s early stages published Monday (January 22). “Inspired By My Real Life Journey Coming Up In The Competitive Music Scene In Atlanta as Radio Personality Chris Lova Lova,” the Word Of Mouf rapper wrote on Instagram. “Stay tuned.”

Furthermore, reports indicate that the TV show -– which is untitled as of writing this article -– will be a half-hour-per-episode dramedy for Paramount’s BET Plus streaming service. Not only that, but Insecure co-creator and The Bernie Mac Show creator Larry Wilmore also joined as executive producer alongside Ludacris. BET Plus shared that the series is about “the misadventures of a sharply drawn ensemble who are willing to do anything and everything to bolster ratings at their hip-hop radio station.” Noah Gardenswartz, one of the writers behind the acclaimed Amazon Prime Video show The Marvelous Ms. Maisel, reportedly hopped on this show’s production to write the script.

Ludacris Hypes Up His TV Show

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Of course, this is not the Atlanta MC’s only recent entertainment venture that excited his fans with more opportunities to show off his artistry. For example, he will judge Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow‘s second season alongside DJ Khaled and Latto. In addition, Eminem will reportedly appear as a special guest judge, whose input should be as interesting and creatively motivated as Ludacris. Last season, the show welcomed Chance The Rapper, Cardi B, and T.I. as its judges.

Meanwhile, you may be more familar with Luda these days thanks to his feud with Katt Williams. That certainly kicked off 2024 with a bizarre and unexpected beef, one that we’re not sure how it will develop over time. We’ll have to wait and see, but at least we have these new ventures to look forward to. For more news and the latest updates on Ludacris, keep checking in with HNHH.

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Drake Bets $700,000 On Strickland-Du Plessis At UFC 297

January 20, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake is back with another massive bet. The Canadian rapper showed off a Stake betting ticket showing he had put $700,000 on Sean Strickland to beat Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297. With Stake giving 1.97 odds on Strickland, Drake will come away with $1.4M if Strickland can take down his South African rival.

It appears that Drake has learned the error of his ways. Previously, he lost $500,000 when Strickland stunned Israel Adesanya at UFC 293. Drizzy would have walked away with a cool $920K if Adesanya had won. However, Strickland pulled off what many are calling the greatest upset in UFC middleweight history. While there wasn’t a KO in Sydney, Strickland edged out a close fight to win by unanimous decision and take the middleweight belt.

Sean Strickland Calls Out Andrew Tate

Drake Bets $700K on upcoming UFC Championship fight, could win $1.4M#UFC297 https://t.co/52WCdDrY0T pic.twitter.com/77wLq82C9r

— HipHopDX (@HipHopDX) January 20, 2024

Meanwhile, Strickland has been taking his post-Adesanya fight fame in stride. In September 2023, days after beating Adesanya, Strickland called out Andrew Tate. “Here’s the thing about Andrew Tate. As young men, I can see why you look up to him because you are moralless men. You have no values, you have no positive role models. You latch onto a piece of shit like Tate, who has money, who has women. Andrew Tate is a con artist. Have you seen that interview where he goes on about how he used to pretend to be a cam girl and rob people’s savings? He has no remorse. If you want to look up to someone, look up to someone like Jordan Peterson,” Strickland said.

As for Drake, his last big bet was on Logan Paul’s fight with Dillon Danis. Drake lost $850K despite Logan Paul claiming victory over Dillon Danis last night. The musician had put down the massive bet on Paul to beat Danis via KO in the six-round fight in Manchester. However, as the fight officially ended via disqualification, Drake’s bet was officially unsuccessful. If Paul had managed to knock out Danis, Drake would have walked away with $1.35M.

[via]

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Yung Miami’s New Reality Show Reportedly Airing On BET

December 21, 2023 by newhiphopnews

During her interview with Billboard earlier this year, Yung Miami announced that her reality show was in the works. The series, tentatively titled A Day in the Life of Miami, had yet to find a network at the time. Now, however, it’s been reported that the show has been picked up by BET. It’s unclear when fans can expect to finally see the show, but it’s safe to say they can’t wait. The other half of City Girls, JT, will not be taking part.

Known in part for her fun personality, the rapper has been entertaining fans with her REVOLT podcast Caresha Please since June. In the past, she’s sat down with the likes of Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, Kevin Gates, Saucy Santana, and more. Of course, she’s also interviewed Diddy, who she’s been in a non-exclusive relationship with for some time.

A Day In The Life Of Miami Is In The Works

Yung Miami attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Center on September 12, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images for MTV)

The podcast has been a major hit among fans. It even took home an award for Best Hip-Hop Platform at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards. This sparked a bit of controversy, with some peers and social media users claiming that she didn’t deserve the accolade. During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, however, Yung Miami defended herself and her podcast, arguing that the hard work she puts into it made her a shoo-in.

“I just feel like people always saying that I don’t deserve stuff,” she explained. “I work hard, I deserve everything. When I just did my first live podcast, we in a new time, we in a new generation. I’m bringing something new, so how do I not deserve it?” Supporters are looking forward to this next chapter for Yung Miami, and are eager to learn more. What do you think of Yung Miami getting her own BET reality show? Are you looking forward to seeing A Day in the Life of Miami? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

[Via]

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Lenny Kravitz Believes Black Media Has Ignored His Contributions To Music

November 30, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Lenny Kravitz is one of the biggest rock artists of the late 1990s and 2000s, cranking out hit after hit and making a name for himself as one of the genre’s main commercial exponents of the time. However, in his view, there was always one blind spot when it came to his appeal. Moreover, the superstar musician recently spoke in an interview cover story on how Black media like BET or The Source Awards doesn’t give him his due flowers despite his accolades from other organizations and his art as a whole. It’s very hard to pinpoint why this could be the case, but it’s nevertheless an interesting and important conversation to have.

“To this day, I have not been invited to a BET thing or a Source Awards thing,” Lenny Kravitz expressed. “And it’s like, here is a Black artist who has reintroduced many Black art forms, who has broken down barriers. Just like those that came before me broke down. That is positive. And they don’t have anything to say about it?” On social media, many users debated as to why this is, bringing up other examples and using different forms of analyses. It’s also worth noting that he has no shortage of collaborations with other Black artists.

Lenny Kravitz Speaks Out About Black Media Recognition

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For example, many pointed out that Prince did not have this issue despite falling into the rock realm that Lenny Kravitz inhabits. In addition, folks debated whether rock music is considered a Black art form in the 21st century, with many rightfully pointing out that the genre owes its existence to African Americans. Furthermore, they posited this as a reason as to why maybe these outlets haven’t given him his due recognition, even with his recent work that can fall on the shoulders of his legacy. Others called into question the 59-year-old’s quality of output over the years, and the theory that he never really presented himself as an artist for Black media to celebrate in the first place.

On that last note, some people believe that Kravitz always aimed for a white audience, but he became too big of an artist that is still relevant today for this to truly be the case. As such, this is still up for debate and perhaps we will never truly know why. For now, though, we can use this as a learning example, especially when genre blends are more commonplace than ever in the industry. With that in mind, check back in with HNHH for more news and updates on Lenny Kravitz.

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Keke Palmer Delivers A Powerful Performance At The BET Soul Train Music Awards: Watch

November 27, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Keke Palmer’s life has been tumultuous, to say the least. Ever since the pop culture world got the news about her and Darius Jackson’s downfall as a couple. Things began to hot and steamy this past summer after the actress and singer attended an Usher show. She was wearing revealing clothing and getting a little too comfortable for Darius’ liking. He spoke his mind on social media, fans were divided on his opinion, as well as Keke’s actions.

However, the shocking revelation came when she dropped some serious allegations against her now ex-boyfriend and father to their child. Abuse and harassment claims were made and, she asked for sole custody of their kid. Disturbing video footage of Keke and Darius then emerged as he attacked her in her own home. At one point, he even trespassed unexpectedly into her house. All of this mental and emotional weight seemed to be gone after her latest performance this past weekend.

Keke Palmer’s Vocals Are On Point

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The Illinois native was the host of the 36th annual BET Soul Train Awards on Sunday, November 26. In addition, she was also a performer at the show as well. She delivered a truly powerful but somber display on the stage. Keke played a song from her latest record, Big Boss, called “Ungorgeous.” The lyrics are very sad and depict a relationship that is losing its magic. Maybe, it is a reference to her and Darius’ past romance. People were loving the show in the comments section and at the event.

What are your initial thoughts on Keke Palmer’s performance at the BET Soul Train Awards? Do you think this is one of, if not the best live displays this year? Is she a better singer, or a more adept actress? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Keke Palmer, as well as everything else going on around the music world.

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Ari Fletcher’s Father Breaks Silence On 28-Year Absence, Leaves Daughter With Unanswered Questions

November 23, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In a recent interview that sent shockwaves through social media, Ari Fletcher’s father stepped into the spotlight to address the burning question that has lingered for 28 years. Why wasn’t he there for his daughter and present in her life? The hot seat moment unfolded when host Kendra G confronted Ari Fletcher’s father with the question, “What was the excuse for not being there for your daughter for the last 28 years?” The answer, however, was as surprising as it was disappointing. With a candid demeanor, the father revealed, “Me and her mother didn’t work out. So I just moved on to the next woman.”

It was a revelation that left Ari Fletcher visibly taken aback. This prompted her to question the necessity of her father’s presence in her life. “I just don’t see where we go from here, why do I need you in my life?” she responded. Many people who watched the clip felt the same way. The shared sentiments echoed in the comments. “You moving on to the next woman don’t have [s**t] to do with you being a present father. Tf,” one person commented. “This is actually how a lot of men are. It’s very sad and pathetic,” another said.

Ari Fletcher’s Dad Speaks Up

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The revelation opened a Pandora’s box of emotions. Moreover, it sparked a heated debate on social media about the responsibilities of parenthood and the impact of absent fathers. Many fans expressed their disappointment. Many pointed out that family relationships are not disposable. And they can’t just be easily forgotten about when the romantic relationships fizzle out. “It’s crazy how some parents can just abandon their child like that,” someone wrote. “His love for his child was conditional on if he was with her Mom or not… smh.”

Ari Fletcher’s father’s explanation, or lack thereof, has ignited a broader conversation about accountability and the complex dynamics of family ties. However, his explanation has left more questions than answers. Now people are wondering if this is the beginning of a relationship between father and daughter? Or if it marks the definitive end of a chapter that was never fully written.

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