TV One Announces New and Returning Original Programming in Celebration of the 20th Anniversary
TV One Networks announced its comprehensive slate of programming across linear and digital networks at the 2024 virtual Upfront presentation. The presentation was led by Michelle Rice, President, TV One and CLEO TV, Julia VanTuyl, SVP, Ad Sales and Marketing and Austyn Biggers, SVP, Original Programming and Production.
For 20 years, TV One Networks has been an industry leader in the space of representing Black and Brown culture with its portfolio of nostalgic and original programming. The award-winning slate includes URBAN ONE HONORS, UNSUNG, UNCENSORED, and more classics that exemplify Black excellence. In addition to the return of the aforementioned shows, TV One is set to continue its successful slate of original programming with exciting new additions to the lineup with RAISING FAME hosted by Lucille O’Neal (mother of Shaquille O’Neal) and Sonya Curry (mother of Stephen and Seth Curry), COLLAB, IN THE KITCHEN WITH TAMAR & EVELYN BRAXTON (WT) and THE AL SHARPTON STORY (WT), an Al Sharpton biopic.
“The upcoming year will shepherd in two milestones for our networks. TV One will turn 20 and CLEO TV turns 5. As we approach these anniversaries in January, we are introducing exciting, new programming we hope will thrill current viewers and capture the attention of new viewers as well. TV One continues to represent the best of Black entertainment and culture with a diverse offering of both new and nostalgic programming – for us by us.” Michelle Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV states.
“Throughout the year, TV One and CLEO TV uniquely celebrates holidays and cultural moments that are significant to our communities through thematic programming, special events and partnership opportunities. Cultural moments include Martin Luther King Day, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Mother’s Day, Black Music Month, Juneteenth, Black Business Month, Father’s Day, Back to School, Black Business Month, National Girlfriends Day, Hispanic Heritage Month, Homecoming at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Kwanzaa. We continue to increase our investment in digital and social content to drive cross-platform engagement and cultural conversations that amplify our brand and content across O&O platforms.”
Each quarter, TV One and CLEO TV uniquely celebrate holidays and cultural moments that are significant in Black and multicultural communities through thematic programming, special events and partnership opportunities. The network’s continued investment in digital programming ensures brand awareness and cultural conversations enhance exposure, resulting in sustained success across the board.
Below is a highlight of the TV One’s new, original programming:
“URBAN ONE HONORS”
Urban One Honors is the company’s annual, star-studded tentpole created by legendary Urban One, Inc. founder, Cathy Hughes, Approaching its sixth year, Urban One Honors pays homage to individuals and organizations whose work significantly impacts society and culture.
“THE AL SHARPTON STORY” (WT)
For decades, Reverend Al Sharpton has dedicated his life to the fight for justice and equality as an internationally renowned civil rights leader, politician, minister and founder of the National Action Network. From his humble Brooklyn roots to his emergence as a powerful grassroots activist, Sharpton survived an all-out media assault and even near death experience to become a passionate agent of change and one of the greatest Civil Rights figures in history.
“RAISING FAME”
Hosted by Lucille O’Neal (mother of Shaquille O’Neal) and Sonya Curry (mother of Stephen and Seth Curry), this new series gets candid stories from families who raised some of today’s biggest superstars. Through the personal lens of parents and extended family who guided these extraordinary individuals, RAISING FAME takes a look back at their individual roads to stardom. This season features appearances by Nicki Minaj and her mother, Magic Johnson and his mother, Lil’ Nas X and his father, Billy Porter and his mother, Usher and his mother, and Patrick Mahomes with his father.
“IN THE KITCHEN WITH TAMAR & EVELYN BRAXTON” (WT)
Join mother-daughter duo Tamar and Evelyn Braxton as they celebrate the holidays in style! From Christmas to Easter, Mother’s Day to Thanksgiving, no matter what holiday you’re celebrating, this special has something for everyone. Get ready to whip up some mouth-watering dishes as Tamar and Ms. Evelyn share their delicious family recipes straight from the kitchen. From succulent main courses to delectable desserts, you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy all of your holiday cravings.
“COLLAB”
Hosted by the world’s greatest entertainer and Hip Hop icon Doug E. Fresh, this innovative new music series features an undiscovered artist being paired with a legendary R&B or Hip Hop icon as the audience witnesses the creative process unfold. From the recording studio creating a new track, to the stage performing it live for the first time, COLLAB seeks to help emerging artists break into the music business while providing the established artists with their next hit record.
