This Black History Month, BET and CENTRIC will showcase the range, richness and diversity of the African-American experience with an exciting lineup of programming highlighting the cultural contributions of black America.
BET's Black History Month lineup will encompass an array of culturally dynamic films, original series and specials including: the fifth annual BET HONORS; the Network movie premiere of The Express (Rob Brown, Charles Dutton), Dreamgirls (Jamie Foxx, Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson), Ali (Will Smith), John Q (Denzel Washington, Kimberly Elise) and 35 & Ticking (Nicole Ari Parker, Kevin Hart); and the BET News special SOUL MATES: DR. Maya Angelou AND COMMON.
Additionally, BET will premiere brand-new episodes of hit series THE GAME and LET'S STAY TOGETHER as well as its first Oscar special, BET TAKES HOLLYWOOD.
On CENTRIC - BET's adult-focused channel - programming will include: BE INSPIRED: THE LIFE OF Heavy D, a documentary chronicling the life of Dwight "Heavy D" Myers; HIP HOP: A CULTURE ODYSSEY, a documentary tracing the origins, evolution and spirit of hip hop; the Network movie premiere of Soul Power (James Brown) and Having Our Say: The Delaney Sisters (Diahann Carroll, Ruby Dee); and, concert specials from award-winning musicians R. Kelly and Mary J. Blige.
Specials:
SOUL MATES: DR. Maya Angelou AND COMMON - Premieres Sunday, February 12 at 11:00 a.m.* on BET. BET News brings together the iconic master of literature Dr. Maya Angelou, who received the country's highest civilian honor from President Obama, with celebrated hip hop artist Common. The result is exclusive access to one of the most accomplished African-American figures of our time relayed by one of today's most popular artists - an unforgettable TV moment.
BET HONORS - Premieres Monday, February 13 at 9:00 p.m.* on BET. Hosted by actress Gabrielle Union, this year's show recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding African-Americans by honoring renowned author/poet Maya Angelou (Literary Arts), internationally acclaimed musician Stevie Wonder (Musical Arts), Grammy Award-winning songstress Mariah Carey (Entertainer), influential filmmaker Spike Lee (Media), the heroic Tuskegee Airmen (Service) and inspirational coach/mentor Beverly Kearney (Education).
The show's star-studded lineup includes performances by Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland, Queen Latifah, Willow Smith, Jill Scott, Ledisi, Cicely Tyson, Raekwon, Common, and BET Music Matters artist Luke James with appearances and participation by First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama, Cuba Gooding Jr., Terrence Howard, Willow Smith, Jill Scott, India.Arie and John Singleton.
