Source: Getty Images/Gilbert Carrasquillo / Getty Images/Gilbert Carrasquillo
Change is coming to BET as their president for 21 years steps down. Debra Lee stated that she will be leaving the role at the start of the year and handing daily operations to Scott Mills. Mills would oversee daily operations and currently serves as the executive vice president and chief administrative officer at Viacom.
Lee will keep her positions as BET Networks’ chairman and CEO to concentrate on the company’s engagement with communities.
“Today, BET is thriving as the #1 network for African American audiences, and we continue to see strong growth in ratings, share and social engagement,’’ Lee said in a statement. “As I look to the future, I believe it is the right time to take a step back from day-to-day responsibilities at BET.’’
Mills first started with BET in 1997 as senior vice president of business strategy and development. His job will not only be to oversee daily operations but also, network’s programming, ad sales, digital teams and more.
“BET has consistently produced exciting, thought-provoking content, shaping culture and conversation with African Americans and young audiences around the world,” Mills said in his own statement. “I am honored to work alongside Debi, Michael, and the incredible team at BET as we accelerate the network’s evolution across film, digital, and live experiences.”
Another special thing about this change is Tyler Perry will be creating original programming for BET including a film as well.
