Viacom plans BET+ subscription streaming service

Viacom’s BET Networks is launching its own subscription video streaming service, BET+, as a joint venture with Tyler Perry Studios. The service is launching in the fall.

The service will have 1,000 hours of content, including exclusive new original programming along with other series, movies and specials from BET Networks.

“African Americans are the leading consumers of streaming services, with higher SVOD adoption rates than other consumers, which is why we’re so excited to launch a premium product for this underserved audience. BET+ is a natural extension of BET’s linear network, which has been the leading home of black culture for decades. Our curated catalog and original programming will keep the BET+ content offering fresh, fueling subscriber growth, viewership and retention,” said Scott Mills, president of BET Networks, in a statement.

“In our industry, the way people consume content is constantly evolving," said Perry in a statement. "I’ve paid attention to my audience, and what works for them and, for that reason, I’m very excited not only about the idea of partnering with BET to create new and exciting content, but also about the idea of giving people a personalized experience through the ability to curate the content they love to consume."

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BET+ will be the exclusive streaming home for Perry’s collected works across film, television and stage. The first BET+ original series, “First Wives Club,” a new 10 episode scripted drama from “Girls Trip” screenwriter Tracy Oliver, will debut in the fall. BET+ will be available at launch on Android and iOS devices as well as other streaming devices. Viacom will continue to operate the curated BET channel on its ad-supported streaming service Pluto TV. BET did not reveal how much the streaming service will cost.