(CLICK-BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2009 FLASH VIDEO LINK):http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itl3CfTiVbc

(CLICK-SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2009 FLASH VIDEO LINK):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DsjW2bLdwY

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Star Jones Hosts 'HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON,' a BET News Exclusive on Obesity in Black America Premiering Sunday, November 15, at 10:00 P.M.*

African-Americans are killing themselves, slowly, and quietly, little by little, every day and the killer is not likely to grab headlines or to bloody the streets. The murderous weapon is food, and many African-Americans are, quite simply, eating themselves to death. African-Americans are more overweight and obese than any other racial group and at risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, and certain types of cancer.

On Sunday, November 15 at 10:00 p.m.* BET News and Star Jones take viewers straight to one of the cities carrying the heaviest burden of this epidemic -- Jackson, Mississippi -- with a one-hour news special, HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON.

"I used to be scared to step out there on the issue of Obesity but I realized that I wasn't being fair because I have a public platform and I need to use it for good," said Star Jones, host of HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON. "I am not the 'poster child' for a specific weight loss method but I am a true advocate for adopting a healthy lifestyle because with all humility, doing so has saved my life."

Home to the U.S.'s largest population of African-Americans, the magnolia state annually weighs in as America's fattest state. The state's capitol has been called the canary in the coalmine for what awaits Black America should the obesity issue continue to go unchecked. The prevalence of obesity among African Americans in Mississippi is even greater than the national average for African-Americans, especially among Black women. And more alarming, increasing numbers of African-American children in the state are being diagnosed with obesity-related illnesses that in the past had been only found in adults.

"Obesity is a critical issue in our community that has not received the attention it deserves," says Keith Brown, Senior Vice President of BET News and Public Affairs. "It was important for us to focus not only on the problem, but also on the inspiring stories of people taking control of their lives and making positive change in their communities."

HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON reveals a perfect storm of socio-economic, cultural, environmental elements and individual lifestyle choices that have caused so many of Jackson's citizens to become obese. Almost one of every three Mississippians has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater -- the dividing line between being overweight and being obese. However, even in the face of these grim statistics there is hope. The efforts of those who determined to shrug off their city's dubious distinction are leading Jackson in a new direction to trim the fat.

Through the use of personal accounts, compelling packages, startling statistics and open dialogue between the community at risk and expert guests, HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON will lay out all the facts surrounding obesity in Black America. Dr. David Satcher, Satcher Health Leadership Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine; Dr. Aaron Shirley, Jackson Medical Mall Foundation; Dr. Timothy Quinn, Mississippi family physician; Barbara Broadwater and Rita Redd from Mississippi Against Obesity Foundation are among the guest experts who will shed light on the growing problem.

HEART OF THE CITY: DYING TO EAT IN JACKSON is a production of BET News. Traci Curry serves as producer for the special with Jason Samuels as senior series producer and Keith Brown, BET Senior Vice President of News and Public Affairs as executive producer.

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The Hottest Night in Hip-Hop Has A Home on BET -Tune in Tuesday, October 27 at 8 PM* for the World Premiere of the '2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS'

Hosted by Comedian Mike Epps with Performances by Jay Z, Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Young Jeezy, Gucci Mane, The Dream and Many More; Rapper, Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, and Film Director Ice Cube Will Be Honored as This Year's "I Am Hip-Hop" Icon Award Recipient. CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS http://creditrepairscores.blogspot.com

On Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 8 PM* make a date with comedian Mike Epps, for one of the most exciting nights with the premiere of the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS.

At 8 PM* Jay Z and Young Jeezy kick off the hottest show on television with a performance of as "Real as It Gets" followed by performances and appearances from Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott, Monica, Fabolous, DJ Khaled, The Dream, Tiny and Toya, Jim Jones, Wale, Gucci Mane, Mario, OJ Da Juiceman, Soulja Boy Tell'em, Chuck D, Plies, DJ Drama, Shawty Lo, Fonzworth Bentley, Lil Scrappy, Dorrough, Nipsey Hussle, Goodie Mob, Big Boi, and Ludacris, who performed his brand-new single for the first time, "How Low" on the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS stage. CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS http://creditrepairscores.blogspot.com

Taped in Atlanta's Boisfeuillet Jones Civic Center, the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS celebrates the biggest names in the game -- both on the mic and in the community. The audience was privy to a whopping 10 performances, 3 hip-hop cyphers, which featured KRS-One, Eminem, Black Thought, Mos Def, Wale, GSpan, Nipsey Hussle, Joe Budden, Buck Shot, Crown Royyal, and the only female in the crew Nicki Minaj; and a tribute to women in hip-hop honoring Fatima Robinson, and Missy Elliot for their significant contributions to the hip-hop culture with their art, creativity, originality and pure talent. The evening was also full of stirring moments along with Mike Epps' many wardrobe changes, the New Boyz were schooled by Kid 'n Play; T.I.'s better half, Tiny accepted numerous awards on T.I.'s behalf and read an email-acceptance note he personally wrote from jail; and Brooklyn's finest, Jay Z was awarded the first award of the night, MVP of the Year by Dirty Money.

Veteran rapper, Ice Cube received the "I AM HIP HOP" Icon Award which is presented to an individual who, during their lifetime, has made notable contributions of outstanding significance to the hip-hop community. CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS http://creditrepairscores.blogspot.com

This year "Hip Hop Cares" spotlighted 50 Cents' G-Unity Foundation, Busta Rhymes' affiliation with RockCorps, Jim Jones service to Entertainers Alliance for Education Foundation and Young Jeezy's Street Dreams Foundation.

BET.com hosted the Hot 16 challenge, "Nike Be True Hot 16 Bar Exam" - log on to www.bet.com/hiphopawards to see the five finalists in the battle of the MCs. Check out moments and highlights straight from the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS red carpet hosted by Frankie (of the FRANKIE & NEFFE reality show on BET), "Red Carpet with Frankie", and make sure to catch "All Access Pass with DJ Q45" - BET.com along with DJ Q45 went behind-the-scenes to bring viewers exclusive footage and interviews from celebrity guests, music artists and entertainers.

This year, the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS was sponsored by Nike and Coca-Cola. BET teamed up with Cossette Productions, the famed producers of the GRAMMY Awards® and the record-setting BET AWARDS shows, to handle production of the telecast. Stephen G. Hill, BET President, Music and Programming, along with Lynne Harris-Taylor, BET Vice President of Specials, are executive producers of the telecast. CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS http://creditrepairscores.blogspot.com

For more information about the BET HIP HOP AWARDS, please visit www.bet.com/hiphopawards. *All times ET/PT

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MONICA "STILL STANDING"

This Fall, Grammy® Award-Winning, Multi-Platinum Recording Artist Monica Makes Her Reality Television Debut With "MONICA: STILL STANDING" on Tuesday, October 27 at 10:00 p.m.*

After a brief hiatus from the music industry, Monica is back in the spotlight with an intimate, profound docu-drama that takes a look at her day-to-day world in the new original BET series MONICA: STILL STANDING. Beginning Tuesday, October 27 Monica will open her heart and life to viewers every week at 10:00 pm* and take them on her personal journey of survival and enlightenment. Viewers will have the chance to experience the many faces of Monica as she balances family, deals with trials, triumphs and health challenges, records her fifth album, "STILL STANDING" and tackles the hardest job of all - being a full-time mother of two young sons.

"It was very scary stepping into the type of situation that would expose me and my life," said Monica. "But I think that there are so many kids now that are aspiring to do exactly what I've done and I felt like that was worth me putting myself on the line so they would really understand what it's like to try and juggle both a music career and personal life."

Even with all of the success in her entertainment career as a Grammy® Award-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and actress, Monica's life has not been without its challenges. Yet, through the spiritual guidance of her parents, family and fiancee she withstood the storms of life and that same support keeps her standing today. Strong, poised and vivacious, Monica wants to show viewers and fans that anything is possible once you set your mind to do it. She wants them to know "sometimes you have to go through to get to."

MONICA: STILL STANDING is executive produced by Monica, Melinda Dancil and James DuBose of DuBose Entertainment.

Viewers can visit www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows for more information about MONICA: STILL STANDING.

*All times ET/PT

BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2009

The BET HIP-HOP AWARDS '09 Nominees Are In ...
Kanye West Leads The Pack With Nine Nominations As Hip-Hop's Crowning Night Returns to Atlanta on Saturday, October 10 and Premieres on BET Tuesday, October 27 at 8:00 p.m.*
The following are the nominees and categories for the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS: (CLICK HERE)


Ice Cube Will Be Honored as This Year's "I AM HIP-HOP" Icon Award Recipient

The Late DJ AM is Among the Nominees for DJ of the Year

BET Introduces Two New Categories, "Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)" and "Best Hip-Hop Blog Site"

The BET HIP-HOP AWARDS '09 nominations were announced earlier this evening on 106 & PARK, along with the highly respected renowned rapper, actor, screenwriter, film producer and director Ice Cube who will receive this year's "I AM HIP-HOP" Icon Award. Hosted by actor and comedian Mike Epps, the hip-hop event of the year returns to Atlanta's Boisfeuillet Jones Civic Center on Saturday, October 10 to celebrate the biggest names in the game - both on the mic and in the community. The BET HIP-HOP AWARDS '09 will premiere Tuesday, October 27 at 8:00 PM*.

The following are the nominees and categories for the 2009 BET HIP-HOP AWARDS: (click link)

The Hip-Hop Awards Voting Academy which is comprised of journalists, industry executives, and fans has nominated rapper, producer and style aficionado Kanye West for an impressive nine awards. Jay Z and Lil Wayne follow closely behind with seven nominations, and T.I. rounds things off with six nominations. Additionally, BET has added two new nomination categories to this year's show -- "Made-You-Look Award" (Best Hip Hop Style) which will go to the ultimate trendsetter and "Best Hip-Hop Blog Site," which will go to the online site that consistently keeps hip-hop fans in the know non-stop.

ABOUT ICE CUBE

Veteran rapper, Ice Cube pioneered the West Coast rap movement back in the late 80's. His originality and endless creativity helped pave the way for a new and enticing sound for hip hop as well as a successful career in film and philanthropy. The "I AM HIP-HOP" Icon Award recognizes those who have made notable contributions of outstanding significance to the hip-hop community. Ice Cube will join the BET HIP-HOP AWARDS' Hall of Fame as the fourth "I AM HIP-HOP" Icon Award honoree. Past recipients of this prestigious award include Grandmaster Flash, KRS ONE and Russell Simmons.
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Known to be one of the most important figures in the rap game, Ice Cube began his career with the West Coast rap group N.W.A two decades ago. At the height of the group's success, Ice Cube broke away to start his own solo career. Soon after, Ice Cube became a major Hollywood force. He is the star, producer and catalyst for the "Friday" and "Barbershop" film franchises, all released through his own company, Cube Vision; and has become one of the most bankable actors thanks to his charismatic turns in box office hits such as "First Sunday," "Are We There Yet?," "Are We Done Yet?," "Boyz N The Hood" and "Three Kings" to name a few. Besides rap and film, in 2007 Ice Cube partnered with the prestigious McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota to establish an annual music scholarship, which annually awards one student who exemplifies creativity, talent and skill in developing a song based on the elements he provides them with. Also in 2007, Ice Cube and long time collaborator DJ Pooh announced the launch of UVNTV.com, the world's first real-time streaming television network online. Ice Cube's latest album "Raw Footage," made it to 1 on the Hip Hop/R & B charts, selling 69,234 units in its first week and 5 on overall Top 200 Album sales chart.

BET Unveils Its New Fall Programming Slate
Original Series "FIRST IN," "HEART OF THE CITY," "MONICA," "PAY IT OFF," "BRING YOUR 'A' GAME," "THE MO'NIQUE SHOW" and "PRESSURE COOKER" Premiere In September and October.
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'TINY & TOYA' Stands as the #1 Original Series in BET History, With an Average of 1.8 Million Total Viewers
1.9 Million Total Viewers Tuned In for the 'TINY & TOYA' Season Finale on Tuesday, August 25
Season Premiere of New Series 'FRANKIE & NEFFE' Debuted on Tuesday, August 25 With an Impressive 1.9 Million Total Viewers

BET enjoyed a huge night in the ratings on Tuesday, August 25, as the season finale of the little show that could, TINY & TOYA, attracted more than 1.9 million total viewers.* TINY & TOYA finished the season with an average of 1.8 MM viewers, making it the #1 original series in BET history, according to Nielsen Media Research.

The blockbuster night was capped off by the season premiere of the spin-off series, FRANKIE & NEFFE, which garnered 1.9 million total viewers. The premiere of FRANKIE & NEFFE stands as the #2 series debut in BET history.

TINY & TOYA chronicled the everyday lives of two ordinary women, brought together in friendship by their shared experiences surviving the pitfalls of fame alongside superstar significant others. While the brand new series FRANKIE & NEFFE follows the R&B Keyshia Cole's mother (Frankie) and sister (Neffe) as they strive to gain financial independence and take charge of their own lives.
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DuBose Entertainment Chronicles the Trials, Tribulations and Triumphs of NFL Star Michael Vick in a New Original Docu-Series To Premiere on BET

NFL Star Allows Cameras Inside His Rise, Fall and Rise Again

DuBose Entertainment and BET Networks will give viewers an unprecedented look into the life of Michael Vick, with a new original docu-series tentatively titled, THE MICHAEL VICK PROJECT. With Michael Vick's consent, the eight-part series, produced by DuBose Entertainment, MV7 Productions and Category 5 Entertainment, will follow the iconic and polarizing professional football player as he journeys on the road to redemption -- in both his personal and professional life. The cameras will not only capture the NFL star's return to football after a two year prison term stemming from his association with a dog fighting ring, but will also focus on much of his life prior to that turning point. Viewers will be given an unfiltered and personal experience of Vick as he restores his past and starts fresh for the future - not only for himself, but for his family and fiancee, Kijafa. THE MICHAEL VICK PROJECT is scheduled to premiere on BET in 2010.

"It's our hope that this documentary series will serve as means towards Michael Vick's search for his own personal truth and how the choices he made ultimately changed his life," said James DuBose, CEO, DuBose Entertainment. "Mike's life may be unique, but his story is one that could be told ten times over by young men who find themselves faced with trials and tribulations. His truth has come by way of bad choices. His triumph will come by way of his commitment to change."

"Michael Vick's story is about second chances and we are excited to have the opportunity to tell his complete story," said Loretha Jones, President, Original Programming, BET Networks. "What happened to Michael is endemic of what is happening to young Black men today. Michael could be anyone's brother, father, uncle or son. It is our hope that this project will give viewers a glimpse of how he is rebuilding his life and moving forward as a human being and not just another sports figure."

After a difficult childhood, Vick's athletic gifts led him to become the 2001 #1 draft pick and at one point in time, the highest paid player in the NFL. However, misguided decisions cost him his lucrative contract, his freedom and much more. Once released from prison, Vick found himself bankrupt and disconnected from the lives of his loved ones who had stood by him through thick and thin. He also discovered that the society that had once revered him was now split down the middle. Now, having signed a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, Vick is back on track to repair his troubled past by reclaiming a prominent place in the NFL, while also revitalizing his badly damaged image in the community by becoming a spokesperson for the Humane Society. The series, both serious in tone and nature, will create a gripping, poignant and intimate look inside the world of one of the most dynamic players in NFL history.

"I am not doing this documentary to show people that I'm back and unchanged by the experiences of the last few years," said Vick. "I'm allowing the cameras to see the truth - the good, the bad and the ugly results of my decisions - with the sincere hope that it will positively affect others' lives and prevent someone out there from making the same mistakes I did."

Category 5's Brian Sher, who produced T.I's "Road To Redemption" and who works with Vick in his off the field endeavors, met with DuBose and Vick to discuss the documentary. Once they agreed on a true rendering of Vick's life, they agreed that BET would be the natural fit for such a project. The series will be executive produced by DuBose Entertainment, Michael Vick's MV7 Productions and Brian Sher's Category 5 Entertainment.

For more information about the series, please visit BET.com.

About DuBose Entertainment

DuBose Entertainment is the company behind several docu-dramas including the critically acclaimed "Keyshia Cole: The Way it Is," "Brother to Brutha," "Tiny & Toya" and "Frankie and Neffe." For more information on DuBose Entertainment visit www.duboseent.com

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BET Networks Enters Into Partnership with Live Nation to Promote Concert Tours in House of Blues and Additional Venues.

106 & PARK TOUR First in a Series of National Club Tours

BET Networks today announced that they have teamed up with the world's largest live music company, Live Nation, to produce a series of U.S. club and theater tours including the House of Blues and additional venues across the country.

The partnership kicks off with this fall's first-ever 106 & PARK TOUR, on which Trey Songz and Mario co-headline, along with Day 26, Sean Garrett and RydazNRtist, a new group signed to Nick Cannon's NCredible Entertainment. The 106 & PARK TOUR will kick off September 29th at House of Blues in Los Angeles and will run through November, making stops in major markets including New York, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Detroit, Baltimore, Washington, and St. Louis. BET Networks will serve as the tour's exclusive media partner.

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The 13th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival, presented by BET Networks, today announced the winners for feature, documentary, short film, screenplay and audience award categories.

The five-day festival was held September 23-27 in New York City; wrapping up on September 27 with a closing awards brunch to congratulate the competition's winners. Urbanworld, which screened 68 films this year, is the largest internationally competitive festival dedicated to the exhibition of independent cinema by and about people of color.

The 13th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival winners are:

Best Narrative Feature Film
MISSISSIPPI DAMNED
Written & Directed By Tina Mabry; Produced By Morgan Stiff

Best Documentary Feature Film
STILL BILL
Written & Directed By Alex Vlack & Damani Baker; Produced By Alex Vlack,
Damani Baker, Jon Fine, & Andrew Zuckerman

Documentary Feature Honorable Mention
THE VISITORS
Directed By Melis Birder

Best Documentary Short Film
A SONG FOR OURSELVES
Written & Directed By Tadashi Nakamura; Produced By Karen Ishizuka &
Robert Nakamura

Best Narrative Short Film
THE ROE EFFECT
Written & Directed By Kiel Adrian Scott; Produced By Kiel Adrian Scott,
Noelle K. Barnes, & Kiara Jones

Narrative Short Honorable Mention
LIFE ON EARTH
Written By Courtney Stephens; Directed By Jeffrey Keith, Produced By R.
Kiplin Pastor

Best Screenplay
145th STREET
Written By Charles Burnett
Awarded $5,000 cash prize by HBO

Audience Award Winner
STILL BILL
Written & Directed By Alex Vlack & Damani Baker; Produced By Alex Vlack,
Damani Baker, Jon Fine, & Andrew Zuckerman

Audience Award Honorable Mention
P-STAR RISING
Directed By Gabriel Noble; Produced By Marjan Tehrani

"On behalf of the Urbanworld Film Festival and our Presenting Sponsor BET Networks, I proudly congratulate the exceptional winners of the Festival's 13th annual competition," said Stacy Spikes, founder of Urbanworld. "As Urbanworld consistently recognizes and celebrates excellence in films by and about people of color, we are honored to present such a diverse slate of filmmakers and content, both represented in the overall festival and in the 2009 roster of winners.

Highlights of the 13th annual Urbanworld Film Festival included a special closing night screening of Good Hair, directed by Jeff Stilson, produced by Nelson George and Chris Rock, and starring Chris Rock.

Bolstered by a three-year partnership with BET networks, Urbanworld is re-defining the competitive film festival landscape with its important and critical approach to exposing the voices of multicultural filmmakers.

ABOUT THE 2009 URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL:

Beginning this year, BET Networks has signed on for a three-year strategic partnership to present the Urbanworld Film Festival. The unique partnership, strengthened by BET's position as the leading media and entertainment provider for African Americans and consumers of Black culture, will further establish the festival as one of the world's largest competitive film festivals designed to redefine and enhance the roles of multicultural constituents in contemporary cinema.


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SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2009

Tyrese to Narrate BET's Newest Docu-Drama, 'FIRST IN'

Singer, Model and Actor Tyrese Gibson Is the Voice of This Groundbreaking New Series

Chronicling the Lives of Compton's Firefighters and Paramedics

As They Respond to Emergencies on a Day-to-Day Basis

FIRST IN premieres on Friday, October 2, at 10:00 p.m.* Narrated by entertainment mogul Tyrese Gibson, this 10-episode half-hour original series delves into the lives of Compton's firefighters and paramedics as they try to balance the high stress of a gruesome 72-hour work schedule and family life. Emotions run high as the men and women work long hours in a fast-paced, high-intensity atmosphere with the pressure to save lives every day.

Though Compton only has a population of about 100,000 people, there are a reported 75 active gangs operating within the area, which makes this a unique environment for the city's emergency teams. With one of the highest crime rates in the country, gunshot wounds, dead bodies and mangled cars are just another day on the job for these highly trained professionals. Day after day, all the drama is caught on tape as the team - consisting of an ambulance operator, multiple firefighters, an intern and the youngest Battalion Chief in the country, Marcel Melanson, of the Compton Fire Department - fights battles both on the job and at home.

A native of the Compton area, Gibson is best known for his starring role in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, as well as other movies such as Baby Boy and Four Brothers. In addition to his career as an actor, Gibson is a successful GRAMMY(®)-nominated recording artist with hits like "Sweet Lady," "Just a Baby Boy" and "How U Gonna Act Like That." He is also the creator of the comic book Mayhem, to be published through Image Comics with a release date of Wednesday, August 5. Additionally, he is the first and only African American male model to land a multi-million dollar contract with GUESS.

FIRST IN is created and directed by Michael McQuarn, who executive produced the series along with Nickie Shapira and Courtney Le of 8(th ) Wonder Entertainment. Tyrese Gibson also served as an executive producer of the series, and Mike Le served as a co-executive producer, both on behalf of Tyrese's HQ Pictures, a division of HeadQuarter Entertainment.

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FRANKIE AND NEFFE, a spin-off of the Network's top-rated reality show KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS; that intimately profiles the wildly entertaining mother and sister of R&B singer Keyshia Cole. The new reality series, premiering on Tuesday, August 25 at 10:00 p.m.*, chronicles the two as they strive to gain financial independence, while taking on the responsibilities of implementing and maintaining positive lifestyle changes, raising families, and handling the drama and men in their lives. Breaking away from R&B star Keyshia Cole proves to be more difficult than expected, and emotions run high, but BET viewers will be rooting for this captivating mother and daughter through it all.
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FRANKIE AND NEFFE is an eight episode reality series executive produced by James DuBose of DuBose Entertainment for BET.

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BET Goes 'INSIDE DTP'

The Brand New Docu-Reality Series Reveals the World of Atlanta's Music Scene and The Music Empire of DTP and Its Founders, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon

premiering Tuesday, October 27, at 10:30 p.m.*, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Atlanta music scene and the powerhouse record company DTP founded by Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon.

INSIDE DTP is a docu-reality series that takes an inside look at the glamorous, high-stakes world of record label Disturbing Tha Peace, also known as DTP. The record company took the music world by storm in the 1990s with hundreds of millions of dollars in sales, celebrity endorsements and global appeal. DTP showed the world that hip-hop was a lifestyle, not just music. In recent years, however, the climate of the music industry has changed drastically, and DTP, once a dominant force in hip-hop music, must now find other ways to maintain its level of success - but company founders Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon are not about to lose. DTP is ready to reinvent and resuscitate the entire music industry as they demonstrate how true family bonds, loyalty and innovation will help their company excel in this hyper-competitive industry.

Viewers will not only see the challenging process of developing an album from concept to retail, but they'll also meet a broad cast of characters driven by a competitive spirit and a drive to succeed.

The executive producers of INSIDE DTP are James DuBose of DuBose Entertainment and Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon - all of Disturbing Tha Peace Entertainment.

Viewers can visit www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows for more information about INSIDE DTP. *All times ET/PT

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This Fall, BET Offers Hard-Working Americans the Chance to 'PAY IT OFF'

New Innovative Game Show, Hosted by Actress/Comedienne Kim Coles, Gives Contestants the Opportunity to Pay Off Their Debts

In these tough economic times, wouldn't it be nice to get out of the red and on the path to financial freedom? Everyone is looking for some relief, especially debt relief. This fall, BET introduces groundbreaking new game show PAY IT OFF, which gives contestants the chance to change their lives and pay off mounting debt. Hosted by actress/comedienne Kim Coles, the one-hour show premieres Wednesday, September 30, at 10:00 p.m.*

PAY IT OFF is the first game show of its kind specifically aimed at helping individuals defray their bills and debts - one expense at a time. While most game shows focus primarily on the mechanics of the game play, PAY IT OFF focuses on the personal debt dilemmas of everyday people.

This unique game show is divided into five rounds with increasing levels of difficulty within each round. As the game play progresses, the contestant has a chance to win more money to pay towards his/her debt. If the contestant makes it successfully through all five rounds, he/she then has the chance to earn $25,000 in the final bonus round!

"Everything I have done in my career has led me to this point, and the opportunity to be the first African-American female game show host on primetime television is amazing; how could I say no? PAY IT OFF is timely, exciting and wonderful, and I'm glad I get to be the one handing out the cash to people in need," said host Kim Coles.

Four-time NAACP Image Award nominee Kim Coles is best known for her five-season turn as the unforgettable "Synclaire" on FOX's hit comedy series, Living Single. Since then, Coles has starred on numerous hit television programs, including Frasier, Six Feet Under, One on One and VH1's popular series Celebrity Fit Club. She also recently co-hosted the NBC daytime talk show In the Loop with iVillage. A well-known comedienne, Coles is now ready to take on her biggest challenge yet: game show host.

PAY IT OFF is executive produced by Rob Lob and Sam Sokolow of SokoLobl Entertainment and Michael Binkow of Five Binks, Inc.

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Friday, February 20, 2009

BET HIP HOP AWARDS

BET Unveils Its New Fall Programming Slate
Original Series "FIRST IN," "HEART OF THE CITY," "MONICA," "PAY IT OFF," "BRING YOUR 'A' GAME," "THE MO'NIQUE SHOW" and "PRESSURE COOKER" Premiere In September and October.
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PREMIERES SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 6:30 P.M.*

There's a force-of-nature behind the door to Room 325 at Frankford High School in Philadelphia. Her name is Wilma Stephenson and she teaches Culinary Arts. She has taught at Frankford for 40 years, long before Culinary Arts became part of the school's curriculum. Infamously blunt, Mrs. Stephenson runs a "boot camp" at Frankford, disciplining her students into capable chefs and responsible students. Behind her tough-talking exterior is a teacher, who cares passionately about getting the best out of her students and making sure they receive the opportunities - including scholarships to top programs - that will help them to escape the meager minimum-wage job opportunities of Northeast Philly. She can be cantankerous, and she knows it, but she will do anything for the students who get with the program and show true promise and the hunger to succeed. PRESSURE COOKER, a Participant Media and Non Sequitur Production, directed by Jennifer Grausman and Mark Becker, documents Mrs. Stephenson and those students committed enough to surrender themselves to her enlightened despotism through two semesters in Culinary Arts. By the end of the school year, 13 of her students will have made it through the gauntlet. These seniors aspire to scholarships that will enable them to move on to a future of opportunity. At a school where over 40% of students don't even make it to their senior year, Ms. Stephenson's class stands in stark contrast, with 11 members of last year's class earning over $750,000 in scholarships. She offers the kids her version of the American Dream: You choose a realistic goal. You work hard. You work the system. You get out of Northeast Philly.

"BRING YOUR 'A' GAME"

PREMIERES SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 9:00 P.M.*

Actor and director Mario Van Peebles and producer Karen Williams partnered with the Twenty-First Century Foundation (a national foundation created to facilitate giving for Black community change) to produce a documentary entitled; BRING YOUR 'A' GAME. In the documentary, prominent Black men from diverse professional fields are asked one simple question: "What does it take to bring your 'A' Game and to succeed in life?" Using hip, computer-generated, videogame-style design and music to present messages of success strategies, educational achievement, mentorship, and discipline, BRING YOUR 'A' GAME seeks to reach out to its target audience of young Black males who lack adequate role models and the tools for professional success. Interviewees include: Richard "Dick" Parsons, Chris Rock, Ice Cube, Sean "Diddy" Combs, Spike Lee, Kevin Liles, Mayor Cory Booker, Lou Gossett, Jr., Hill Harper, Damon Dash, Kevin Powell, Geoffrey Canada, Bruce Gordon and Allan Houston. Alongside the famous faces, everyday people also share their stories of success, including Ernest Austin (Ex-Offenders Action Network), the "Three Doctors" from Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Sampson Davis, Dr. Rameck Hunt and Dr. George Jenkins, and Van Jones (White House Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation).
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"HEART OF THE CITY"

PREMIERES SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 10 P.M.*

BET News travels to cities across America to examine the real issues devastating some African American communities in the original series HEART OF THE CITY. Along with highlighting some of the worst problems facing our nation's urban centers, the series will also reveal the efforts of individuals who have dedicated their lives to bringing about positive change in their communities. The premiere episode of HEART OF THE CITY takes viewers to Detroit, Michigan - ground zero of our national education crisis. The episode will try to discover why so many African Americans in Detroit schools are failing and why its system is failing our kids.
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"FIRST IN"


PREMIERES WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, AT 10:00 P.M.*

Chronicled by actor, singer Tyrese Gibson, FIRST IN, is a 10-episode half-hour original series that delves into the lives of Compton's firefighters and paramedics as they try to balance the high stress of a gruesome 72-hour work schedule and family life. Emotions run high as the men and women work long hours in a fast-paced, high intensity atmosphere compounded by the daily pressure of saving lives. Though Compton only has a population of about 100,000 people, there are a reported 75 active gangs operating within the area, making it a unique environment for the city's emergency teams.

With one of the highest crime rates in the country, gunshot wounds, gang related violence, and mangled cars are just another day on the job for these highly trained professionals. Day after day, all the drama is caught on tape as the team - an ambulance operator, multiple firefighters, an intern and one of the youngest Battalion Chiefs in the country, Marcel Melanson, of the Compton Fire Department - fight battles both at home and on the job.

"PAY IT OFF"

PREMIERES FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, AT 10:00 P.M.*

In these tough economic times, wouldn't it be nice to get out of the red and on the path to financial freedom? Everyone is looking for some relief, especially debt relief. Hosted by actress/comedienne Kim Coles, BET introduces the groundbreaking new game show PAY IT OFF, which gives contestants the chance to change their lives and pay off mounting debt just by answering a few questions. PAY IT OFF is the first game show of its kind specifically aimed at helping individuals defray their bills and debts - one game at a time. While most game shows focus primarily on the mechanics of the game play, PAY IT OFF focuses on the personal debt dilemmas of everyday people. This unique game show is divided into five rounds with increasing levels of difficulty within each round. As the game play progresses, the contestant has a chance to win more money to pay towards his/her debt. If the contestant makes it successfully through all five rounds, he/she then has the chance to earn $25,000 in the final "Back in the Black" bonus round.

"MONICA"

PREMIERES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, AT 10:00 P.M.*

After a brief hiatus from the music industry, Monica is back in the spotlight with an intimate, profound docu-drama that takes a look at her day-to-day world in the new original BET series MONICA: STILL STANDING. Beginning Tuesday, October 27, Monica will open her heart and life to viewers every week at 10:00 pm* and take them on her personal journey of survival and enlightenment. Viewers will have the chance to experience the many faces of Monica as she balances family, deals with trials, triumphs and health challenges, records her fifth album, "STILL STANDING" and tackles the hardest job of all - being a full-time mother of two young sons. Even with all of the success in her entertainment career as a Grammy® Award-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and actress, Monica's life has not been without its challenges. Yet, through the spiritual guidance of her parents, family and fiancee she withstood the storms of life and that same support keeps her standing today. Strong, poised and vivacious, Monica wants to show viewers and fans that anything is possible once you set your mind to do it. She wants them to know "sometimes you have to go through to get to."
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"THE MO'NIQUE SHOW"

PREMIERES MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, TIME 11:00 P.M.*

The sassy and sultry Queen of Comedy Mo'Nique returns to BET this fall for her highly anticipated late night show debut, THE MO'NIQUE SHOW. Carving out a well-deserved spot on the late-night show circuit, comedienne Mo'Nique takes the show host helm, granting BET viewers VIP access to the hottest party on television. From A-list celebrity guests to sizzling performances by the hottest musical artists in the game, Mo'Nique delivers viewers a fun-filled hour of entertainment every night. Boasting show announcer Rodney Perry, a resident deejay, the Big Jim and the Penthouse Players house band, plus Mo'Nique bringing the funny as only she can, THE MO'NIQUE SHOW will undoubtedly force viewers to push their bedtime an extra hour. Each night promises to offer something different; whether the show opens with a funny monologue or eye-popping skit, Mo'Nique is determined to keep her show format fluid, leaving viewers curious as to what the following night's show will bring

Award-Winning Comedienne and Actress Mo'Nique Makes a Highly Anticipated Return to BET for New Late Night Show Debut, 'THE MO'NIQUE SHOW,' Premiering this Fall Mo'Nique Brings Side-Splitting Laughs Every Weeknight, Plus Special Celebrity Guest Appearances and Red-Hot Music Performances.

The sassy and sultry Queen of Comedy Mo'Nique returns to BET this fall for her highly anticipated late night show debut, THE MO'NIQUE SHOW, on Monday, October 5 (time TBD). Carving out a well-deserved spot on the night show circuit, comedienne Mo'Nique takes the show host helm, granting BET viewers VIP access to the hottest party on television.
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From A-list celebrity guests to sizzling performances by the hottest musical artists in the game, Mo'Nique delivers viewers a fun-filled hour of entertainment every night. With a resident deejay to keep the studio audience on their feet and Mo'Nique bringing the funny as only she can, THE MO'NIQUE SHOW will undoubtedly force viewers to extend their bedtime an extra hour.

BET's new late night show bridges the gap between "old school" and today's entertainment culture through innovative and humored-filled segments that pay homage to legendary stars, as well as spotlight today's celebrities and their contributions to better our communities and the world at large. CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS
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"I'm very excited to finally bring my signature voice and comedy to late night television," said Mo'Nique, host of new BET late night show THE MO'NIQUE SHOW. "This show will definitely give BET viewers the late night show experience, but at the same time, offer something uniquely different to the late show circuit, and I can't think of a better home to welcome cable's late night female host but BET."

Tune in every week night beginning October 5 for a late night party that only the biggest queen in the comedy game can deliver.

About MO'NIQUE

Many people are surprised to hear that Mo'Nique's meteoric career began in her early 20s, when she took the Improv comedy stage on a dare from her brother. That spontaneous decision and standing ovation changed her life, convincing her to pursue a career in stand-up comedy, which led her to such notable shows as Showtime at the Apollo, HBO's Def Comedy Jam, Apollo Comedy Hour, HBO's Snaps, BET's Comic View, The Montreal Comedy Festival and Uptown Comedy Club.

This fall, fans can find Mo'Nique on BET, where she'll be hosting her own late night show, THE MO'NIQUE SHOW, featuring celebrity guests, hit music and comedy acts. Also, Mo'Nique is slated to star in upcoming Lee Daniels film Precious, which took home the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Prize at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, and depicts the story of an overweight, illiterate teenager who is emotionally abused by her deadbeat mother and father. The film was recently purchased by Lionsgate Films with support from Oprah and Harpo Productions, as well as Tyler Perry, and will be released in late 2009.

A pivotal career move landed the talented comedienne in the memorable role of "Nikki Parker" on the UPN comedy series The Parkers. The show's five-year run earned Mo'Nique numerous awards, including four NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series in 2001, 2002, 2004 and 2005. Mo'Nique also served as host of legendary talent show Showtime at the Apollo for three years, making history as the first comedienne to serve in that coveted capacity.

Along with Mo'Nique's commercial success and award recognition came popular and visible movie roles in films such as Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, Farce of the Penguins, Beerfest, Shadowboxer, Phat Girlz, Domino, Soul Plane, Hair Show, Three Strikes, Baby Boy and Two Can Play That Game, which earned her a NAACP Image Award Nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture, and the Showtime tele-film Good Fences, opposite Whoopi Goldberg.

In 2002, Mo'Nique joined Adele Givens, Laura Hayes and Sommore for the mega comedy tour, The Queens of Comedy, also released as a film by Paramount Home Entertainment in 2002, and as an album of the same title, which earned a GRAMMY(® )nomination for Best Spoken Comedy Album.
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In 2005, Mo'Nique created, executive produced and hosted the Oxygen television special Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance, America's first full-figured reality beauty pageant, marking the program as the highest-rated network special on Oxygen. In 2006, the show earned a NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Variety Special, and the third season was shot entirely on location in Paris - a network first. Mo'Nique's other reality show credits include the VH1 series Charm School, which was a ratings winner for the network.

Always embracing her full-figured woman status, Mo'Nique has used her celebrity and gift of comedy to advocate for voluptuous women everywhere. Her funny and inspiring book Skinny Women Are Evil, released in April 2003, was published by Atria Books, and became a New York Times bestseller. She and co-author Sherri McGee McCovey released a follow-up called Skinny Cooks Can't Be Trusted for Amistad Press, a division of Harper Collins. The duo also co-authors the teen fiction series, Beacon Hills High, which was just nominated for a 2009 NAACP Image Award in the category of Outstanding Literary Work for Youth/Teens.

While effortlessly managing all of these projects, Mo'Nique still found time to host BET's signature BET AWARDS show in 2003, 2004 and 2007.

Taping from Atlanta's Turner Studios, Mo'Nique, Sidney Hicks and Marilyn Gill serve as the show's executive producer. Get ready for Mo Laughs. Mo Love. Mo'Nique on Late Night. Only on BET! CREDIT SCORE INCREASE 72 HOURS
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