January 25, 1980 - BET Made Its Debut

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Pete

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On this day, January 25, 1980, Black Entertainment Television (BET) made its debut, marking a historic moment in television history. Initially, BET shared broadcasting time with the USA Network, offering programming that celebrated and showcased Black culture, music, and entertainment.

In 1983, BET transitioned into a full-time channel, becoming the first cable network in the United States dedicated to Black audiences. Over the years, it expanded to include music videos, talk shows, news programming, and original content, cementing its place as a vital voice in television.

Fun Fact: BET was founded by Robert L. Johnson, who later became the first African American billionaire in the United States.

Trivia Question: What was the name of the long-running BET music video countdown show that debuted in 1989 and became a staple for showcasing hip-hop and R&B artists?
 
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