Programming executive Traci Blackwell has been named head of scripted programming for BET Networks, the company announced Wednesday.
In the newly created position, Blackwell will oversee scripted programming for both the linear network and the companion streaming service, BET+, including the brand’s partnerships with Tyler Perry, Will Packer and Lena Waithe. She joins the network from The CW, where she served as senior vice president of current programming.
“Traci brings an incredible breadth and depth of experience in scripted programming that will be invaluable for BET Networks as we advance our catalog of scripted IP,” BET general manager Scott Mills said in a statement. “BET is in a transformational moment, creating scripted programming for multiple BET platforms as well as for third-parties. Traci’s meticulous approach to managing a diverse array of scripted projects is perfectly suited to our content strategy. It’s an enormous pleasure to welcome her to our BET family.”
“I am thrilled to align myself with the iconic BET brand and its amazing team in their efforts to create elevated scripted content for an incredibly valuable audience. The global impact of the Black experience on all aspects of art, music and culture is undeniable and the world reflects that. In its storied forty-year journey, BET has done a remarkable job of depicting and sharing black stories and I look forward to being able to contribute to that legacy,” Blackwell said.
Prior to joining The CW, Blackwell started her career at UPN, working on the production of sitcoms “The Parkers” and “Moesha.”
The hire comes a day after BET moved its previous head of programming, Connie Orlando, to executive vice president, specials, music programming and music strategy. In addition to overseeing all of the network’s music programming strategy, Orlando will also continue to serve as executive producer of all of BET Networks’ tentpole events, including the “BET Awards.”