Debra Lee Discusses Her Legacy At BET

By R. Thomas Umstead
published

Former BET president and CEO Debra Lee said in a recent Multichannel News video interview that showcasing the lives and stories of African-Americans authentically through quality, original entertainment and informational programming will be a major part of her legacy at the cable network. 

Lee, who started with BET as a vice president and general counsel in 1986 and rose through the ranks before eventually being named president and CEO in 2005, stepped down from her position this past May.

"BET has always been more than a television network .... when thinks happen in the world or in our community they want to come to BET and see it," Lee said during a new Multichannel NewsMulticultural Perspective video segment.  

R. Thomas Umstead
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.