BET has announced via press release today that the hour-long drama series follow up to the network’s original hit summer movie Being Mary Jane will make its debut on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 from 10-11 pm ET/PT.  

Over 4 million viewers tuned into the movie premiere of Being Mary Jane in July of this year. The movie served as a back-door pilot into the series, consisting of eight one-hour episodes that will air on Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. on BET.

The network’s first one-hour scripted drama focuses on the life of successful cable news anchor, Mary Jane Paul (played by Gabrielle Union). She seems to have it all; intelligence, drive, a beautiful home, a fancy sports car, and a lavish closet of designer shoes. Yet something is missing from her American Dream – a family of her own. Throughout the series, audiences get to know Mary Jane more intimately as they watch her life progress. As viewers experience her journey, the series will peel back the layers that uncover who she really is and the people that help define her – her family, colleagues, friends and lovers.

In the series premiere titled “Storm Advisory,” Mary Jane is faced with difficult decisions both in her private life and her professional life. Two of her past lovers, Andre (Omari Hardwick) and David (Stephen Bishop) battle for her attention, leaving her to wonder if either choice is the right one. Meanwhile, changes are afoot at Mary Jane’s cable network after an anchor is unceremoniously fired, leaving Mary Jane, Kara (Lisa Vidal) and Mark (Aaron Spears) all fearing the loss of their jobs. Moral dilemmas ignite as Mary Jane is left to wonder – should she compromise her credibility in order to save her network?

Being Mary Jane is created and executive produced by Mara Brock Akil, and executive produced and directed by Salim Akil.  

Union is accompanied by veteran actors Richard Roundtree and Margaret Avery and a cast that also includes Lisa Vidal, Richard Brooks, Raven Goodwin, B.J. Britt, Aaron Spears, Latarsha Rose and Robinne Lee.

Viewers can find show updates on Facebook by liking the fan page at Facebook.com/BeingMaryJane. Also, join the conversation on Twitter by using hashtag #BeingMaryJane; follow the show for all updates & special surprises @BeingMaryJane.

Here is a sneak peek of the series premiere: