As one of the leading voices in black entertainment for over 40 years, BET continues to produce buzzworthy original programming and host can‘t miss awards shows.
But with streaming fragmentation, where can cord-cutting fans turn to reliably watch hits like “Tyler Perry’s Sistas” or the next BET Awards broadcast?
Thankfully, satellite provider DISH offers multiple BET owned channels to make keeping up with the cultural phenomenon easy. This guide will showcase everything needed to watch the BET family of stations on DISH.
An Icon Is Born: The Rise of Black Entertainment Television
When cable TV pioneer Robert L. Johnson launched a weekly 2-hour BET program in 1980, a channel completely dedicated to reflecting the full spectrum of black culture was unheard of.
But Johnson was determined for BET to become a platform to celebrate African American talent. Through tireless drive, the network steadily grew – expanding to 24 hours in 1983 and eventually reaching 55+ million homes.
Landmark moves making BET an entertainment world powerhouse include:
- 1991: BET becomes first African American controlled stock on NYSE
- 1998: BET launches website BET.com along with radio arm
- 2000s: BET reigns as #1 cable network for black viewers
- 2009: BET acquired by media giant ViacomCBS for stability
Today, BET is the undisputed leader in black culture-focused original programming spanning categories like sitcoms, music, news, reality TV and awards broadcasts honoring world-class talent.
Driving BET’s continued growth according to CEO Scott M. Mills is "Our ability to produce core programming that drives culture conversation and conversion." By relentlessly developing fresh new shows, BET maintains its standing more vital than ever.
Diverse Mix: BET Programming Categories
So what‘s currently shining on the star BET channels found on DISH? Here‘s a high-level glimpse:
Buzzy BET Originals
Of course BET prides itself on new series reflecting modern African American stories. Some of the most popular current scripted shows drawing viewers are:
- Tyler Perry‘s Sistas – Soapy drama portraying a close knit friend group facing career highs/lows
- Tyler Perry‘s Assisted Living – Comedy at an elderly care home filled with quirky residents
- Carl Weber‘s The Black Hamptons – Drama exposing secrets/lies among affluent black families
Popular original shows on BET like Tyler Perry‘s Sistas spotlight modern African American stories.
Legendary Sitcom Lineup
While BET develops great new programs, the network also curates legendary older sitcoms celebrating African American talent. Beloved shows frequently aired include:
- The Bernie Mac Show – Acclaimed sitcom based around the late great comedian
- The Game – Comedy exploring dating lives of professional football players/wives
- Martin – Iconic 90s sitcom starring comedian Martin Lawrence
By airing classics like Martin, BET offers the best of black sitcom history.
Can‘t-Miss Awards Broadcasts
Ask any entertainment junkie – BET knows how to throw a star-studded celebration. Annual award shows like the BET Awards and Soul Train Awards have provided epic moments like genius tributes, surprise cameos and raw acceptance speeches.
As the ultimate place for the best in hip hop, R&B and black culture to shine, BET award shows are must-see TV.
BET Awards broadcasts like 2021‘s epic night spotlight can‘t miss moments in African American culture.
The Full BET Channel Roster on DISH
Now let‘s explore the family of BET entertainment channels available from DISH and the focus of each:
| BET Channel Name | Dish Channel Number | Programming Description |
| BET | 124 | Flagship channel offering BET original series, specials, syndicated shows |
| BET Gospel | 362 | Gospel music videos, Christian ministries and church coverage |
| BET Jams | 365 | Urban contemporary music videos from hip hop/R&B artists |
| BET Soul | 363 | Throwback soul/neo soul tracks focused on adult R&B sounds |
| BET Her | 251 | Lifestyle and entertainment tailored toward African American women |
With dedicated channels spanning music, inspiration, movies and more – DISH offers a true panoramic showcase of black entertainment.
Watching Iconic BET Stations on DISH
Hopefully this guide has clarified exactly how Dish subscribers can access acclaimed BET programming on channels like the main network, BET Gospel for spiritual growth or BET Her for ladies.
Based on the channel numbers above, the central BET channel is available on Dish at #124 in standard and high definition. To access it, customers will want to subscribe at minimum to the Dish America‘s Top 120 package or higher.
Compare that accessibility to alternative streaming options. While BET+ does offer some web-only originals for $9.99 monthly, popular Dish aired shows like “Sistas” are not included. Making satellite the best home for BET favorites.
Over 40 years since airing its first broadcast, BET remains committed to trailblazing TV celebrating black joy and advancement. Thankfully Dish viewers can continue to have front row access through this iconic collection of channels.
So switch your package today to experience BET‘s shining spectrum of acclaimed comedies, fearless dramas, inspirational gospel sounds and more. The complete entertainment destination for African American audiences.
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