BET closed the deal on an acquisition of the Soul Train property from InterMedia Partners and Yucaipa Companies.

The rights to over 1,000 episodes airing from 1971 through 2006 were purchased in the agreement, but no financial details were disclosed. Don Cornelius was the sole controller of the franchise until he sold his company, Don Cornelius productions in 2008.

BET has aired episodes of the show before, as well as showings of the Soul Train Music Awards since 2009. Executive Vice President of strategy and operations, Richard Gay said, “BET Networks is honored to have acquired a brand with such a rich history and unique content that is forever relevant to all segments of our audience…With a Broadway play and a concert tour as examples of opportunities in the works, we look forward to finding engaging and smart ways to grow the brand while preserving its heritage and legacy in music, dance and fashion.”

Soul Train, hosted by Don Cornelius has been a staple of the black community since its inception and still has a large impact on music television programming in the culture today. The show was a pioneer and a trailblazer for shows focusing on black music and culture that have come after.

What do you think about BET buying Soul Train? Will you be tuning in? Let us know in the comments.

Photo: Tumblr
Photo: Tumblr

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