BET Names Several Execs To Entertainment Division

BET Networks Tuesday announced several new executive appointments in its entertainment division, including new heads of its scripted and reality programming projects.

Former WB Television Network executive Brett King has been named senior vice president of scripted programming for the 86 million-subscriber network. King, most recently a development consultant for the Simmons Lathan Media Group, will oversee all scripted programming for BET and straight-to-DVD projects in both comedy and drama, according to the network.

BET veteran Robyn Lattaker-Johnson was promoted to senior vice president of development from her previous role as vice president of development. In her new role, Lattaker-Johnson will oversee the development and day-to-day production of all reality programming for BET, as well as serve as a liaison with the creative community.

Other BET appointments include former TV One production executive Sitarah Pendelton, who was named BET vice president of development; veteran talent executive Audrey LaCatis Onyeike, who was appointed the network’s vice president of talent, and longtime BET executive Melanie Massie, who was promoted to vice president of talent.

In addition, former 20th Century Fox vice president of finance Shaun Williams was also named vice president of business operations for the network.

“As BET continues to deliver on its commitment on developing strong original programming, it is critical that we have individuals who bring creativity, innovative thinking and unique vision to the network,” said Reginald Hudlin, BET entertainment president, in a statement. “These talented executives are invaluable additions to our Entertainment team, and with them on board and with the successful launches of five new shows this summer, we’re poised to have an even more impressive fall and exciting line-up in the months to come.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.