‘Punk’d’ Reboot Added to New BET Line-up Alongside Brandy Sitcom and Kelly Rowland Singing Competition.

Punk'd BET MTV


It seems that BET is headed towards a new direction for the upcoming season. When news broke, last summer, that Dear White People creator Lena Waithe had inked a deal with the network, it became clear that BET was undergoing some major changes in terms of original programming.

BET also recently confirmed several new projects, including a sitcom starring R&B/Pop songstress Brandy, a singing competition hosted by Kelly Rowland and a revival of MTV’s Ashton Kutcher prank show Punk’d. The new version of the show will be tailored to the BET audience. The network also confirmed several docuseries and news specials for the upcoming season which will tackle a variety of subjects, from the 20-year anniversary of O.J. Simpson’s murder acquittal to the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

“Black consumers experience BET Networks differently than any other network because of our 35 years of history, tremendous experience and insights. We continue to give our viewers what they want — high-quality content that respects, reflects and elevates them.” said BET Networks chairman and CEO Debra Lee. “With more hours of original programming than ever before, our new shows coupled with our returning hits like Being Mary Jane and Nellyville make our original slate stronger than ever.”

For nostalgia’s sake, check out this episode of Punk’d which featured Mekhi Phifer, and Brandy, whose brother Ray J helped orchestrate her prank.