TelevisionOne BET Plaza, 1900 W Place NE
Washington, D.C. 20018-1211
Generally, broadcast outlets present the most barriers and getting these producers on the phone is no easy feat. It didn't surprise us and BET reconfirmed those findings. We literally spent weeks trying to turn over the right stones and track down journalists willing to give us a few moments, so expect the same. (viewership: 54 million; 28% have an HHI of $50,000+; nearly even split between men and women)
SECTIONS: LEAD STORY
This 30-minute program airs every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. EST and is re-aired at 9 p.m. The format is hard news with a political edge. Although breaking news and commentary about what's happening in the U.S. figures prominently, international issues also sway these journalists.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: Producer, Chris Archer-Nelbille
Address: 1900 W. Place NE,
Washington, D.C. 20018-1211
Lead Time: One week.
METHODS: This producer wants snail mail and is less than enthusiastic about phone calls. It would be an understatement to say she was standoffish when we tried to speak with her, so expect the rebuff.
COMMENTS: This is the kind of program public affairs/government relations aficionados should watch to keep pace with the public's grassroots and legislative concerns. Also, press secretaries for politicians would do well by seeing how other political guests come across.
SECTIONS: TEEN SUMMIT
This show airs Saturday at 12:30 p.m. EST and is re-broadcast at 6 p.m. Pitch opportunities abound with this one-hour program geared for teens 13 through 19. Segment topics are selected six months in advance, but actual content isn't cemented until several weeks before topics make it to the airwaves.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: Producer, Renee Turner Fax: 202/608-2798
Lead Time: This show is in re-runs until January 23. After that, pitches should land in Turner's in-box three weeks in advance.
METHODS: One-page faxes are preferred.
COMMENTS: The format provides a wide window for submissions, story ideas and contributions. Health issues, style/fashion, music, trends, hot products, fitness, education, parenting and social concerns involving high schoolers all provide fodder for these weekly "summits."
Editorial Contacts at BET
Main Number: 202/608-2000
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