Word on the street is that hip-hop stars 50 Cent and Shaq are interested in procuring BET — but is it just hearsay?
According to TMZ, the “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” superstar and basketball legend are teaming up with TV producer Kenya Barris to try to acquire the Black Entertainment Television (BET) network.
According to sources, the trio is prepared to make a sizable offer for the acquisition with the help of the investment group CVC. Although it hasn’t been finalized yet, sources stated that the group is “deep in it” and considering options.
This week, 50 Cent and Kenya Barris reportedly stopped by the Paramount offices in New York City to talk about the possibility of purchasing the network.
50 Cent & Shaq Are Going After BET Network
With the popularity of his celebrated shows like BMF and Power, 50 Cent has been making progress in the television sector for some time. In fact, the rapper from Queens just bought a 985,000-square-foot warehouse to serve as the G-Unit Film and Television company’s base of operations.
Kenya Barris has a long list of writing, directing, and producing credits on his portfolio.
Additionally, Shaq, a 4x NBA Champion who is now a media figure, has had a number of lucrative TV partnerships.
Tyler Perry and Diddy have already been cited as potential purchasers in reports about BET’s potential sale.
According to reports, Diddy is “investigating the possibility of buying BET as part of his strategy to construct a Black-owned global media powerhouse.” Likewise, Tyler Perry was announced as another prospective purchaser.
Robert L. Johnson founded BET in 1980, and Viacom purchased it for $3 billion in 2000. Black culture has been significantly influenced by BET, which over the years has served as a platform for a number of well-liked programs, including Comic View, 106 & Park, and the BET Awards.
How do you feel about 50 Cent and Shaq potentially owning BET? Sound off below!
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