MBC
Network Changes Name To The Black Family Channel
MBC
Network Aims to Strengthen Positioning with its New Name
Atlanta,
GA - MBC Network, the only African-American, owned and
operated cable television network will change its name to
the Black Family Channel effective October 1 of this year.
The transition plans for the network's new name are already
underway. The announcement came today from MBC Network Chairman
and CEO, Willie Gary. The name change to the Black Family
Channel comes as part of the new direction of the Network,
to redefine television by producing innovative and engaging
family programs for black America. The Black Family Channel
will continue the mission to solidify its position as the
cable destination for the African-American viewer.
"The name change
to the Black Family Channel reflects our growth and expansion
to the next level. As the Black Family Channel, we will assist
the cable industry to increase acquisition and digital upgrades
in African-American homes," continued Gary.
"This
year MBC is celebrating its fifth anniversary. In just
five short years, the network is available in 30 million
homes, 3,700 cities and 47 states. We have made significant
strides and continue to succeed against insurmountable
odds. We intend to capitalize on these accomplishments
in our new capacity as the Black Family Channel," said
Gary.
"My
partners, four-time heavy-weight champion, Evander Holyfield,
baseball great, Cecil Fielder, legendary Jackson 5 member,
Marlon Jackson and broadcast veteran, Alvin James, and
I, were told that we would not thrive in this industry
by bringing positive images and messaging on cable television.
We have ignored the naysayers and will continue to change
the viewing culture of cable television. MBC Network
has been a true example of endurance and hard work.
The Black Family Channel will serve as an inspiration
to young men and women to dream big dreams and refuse
to be denied," said Gary.
Among other things, the Black Family Channel will work
to build upon its grassroots efforts, establish partnerships
with major corporations and increase alliances with
black churches across America. The Black Family Channel
will continue to offer viewers access to black college
sports, entertainment, news, movies, information, children's
programming and dynamic ministries.
In addition, the Black Family Channel will keep its
multi-year agreement to be the exclusive cable partner
for the major black college sports conferences; a deal
that made black collegiate history.
As part of the new direction for the Black Family Channel,
actor, producer, director, Robert Townsend was recently
named President and CEO of Productions for the Network.
Townsend is spearheading a nationwide talent search
to discover and cast new stars for an assortment of
original programming he has developed exclusively for
the Black Family Channel. The talent search tour is
scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, Chicago, New
York, Miami, Atlanta, St. Louis and Dallas through July
31, 2004. Townsend, with over 30 years of experience
is credited with discovering comedian Damon Wayans,
casting Beyonce and directing Halle Berry, to name a
few.
"My
mission is to put new faces on television and produce
innovative and engaging programs on the Network for
black America," said Townsend. "Unfortunately, Hollywood
tends to script roles for a select pool of actors and
actresses, leaving a narrow opportunity for rising stars
to showcase their craft or be considered for leading
roles."
"My
vision for the Black Family Channel will substantially
increase the visibility of new talent, new faces and
new imaging on cable television," stated Townsend.
PRESS CONTACT: Lisa Morgan, ltalbert@mbcnetwork.com,
404-808-9409 or Kori Love, kal@williegary.com, 772-288-0772
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