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BET Awards '09 Becomes #1 Cable Telecast of the Year



Hosted by Jamie Foxx, the awards show pays tribute to Michael Jackson and draws almost 10.7 million total viewers.



June 30, 2009

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NEW YORK, NY—The live premiere of the "BET Awards '09" on Sunday, June 28, drew 10.65 Million Total Viewers—the #1 cable telecast year-to-date and BET's biggest audience ever (NMR, Live + Same Day, 6/28). This year's show, which aired from 8:00-11:30 p.m.*, was dedicated to Michael Jackson and featured several special tributes to the King of Pop, as well as an emotional appearance by Janet Jackson, who spoke on behalf of the family to thank fans for their love and support.

"The number of viewers who tuned in to see the "BET Awards '09" is a testament to Michael Jackson's far-reaching and long-lasting influence and legacy," said Debra L. Lee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BET Networks. "We're thankful to everyone who played a role in the show, both on stage and behind the camera, and it meant so much to all of us to be there for our audience at this emotional time. Above all, we extend our love and prayers to the Jackson family and are honored that Joe and Janet Jackson were in attendance."
The "BET Awards '09" also stands as the #1 awards show on cable for the year to date among total viewers. In addition, the "106 & Park" pre-show drew 3.1 million total viewers, and the "BET Awards '09 After-Party Fashioned by My Black Is Beautiful Post Show" drew 5.2 million total viewers. The sneak peek of the new BET series "Tiny & Toya" drew an additional 3.8 million total viewers. All three shows set BET records, becoming the #1 pre-show, post-show and original series telecasts in BET history, respectively (NMR, Live, 6/28).

The "BET Awards '09" caps a record-breaking second quarter for BET. Second quarter 2009 is the #1 quarter in BET history, posting a +34% gain versus a year ago. Second quarter 2009 also ranks as BET's third straight quarter of year-over-year viewership gains, and BET has enjoyed four consecutive quarters of viewership increases since the third quarter of 2008.

BET Awards-related terms dominated the top 10 trending topics on Twitter on Sunday, June 28, and at one point during the "BET Awards '09" premiere telecast, the BET Awards accounted for all top 10 trending topics on Twitter—an extraordinary feat.


*All times ET/PT