BET Networks, a cable network owned by Viacom, said Monday it has acquired Soul Train, the iconic music-and-dance program founded by the late TV show host, Don Cornelius.
Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
The deal, which merges “two quintessential African American brands,” enables Viacom to add to its content library in the music category that has been a priority for the company, BET said.
The assets of Soul Train, which had been owned by private equity investors, InterMedia Partners and the Yucaipa Companies, include more than 1,100 television episodes and 40 television specials.
BET is familiar with Soul Train, having relaunched the Soul Train Awards in 2009.
“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,” said Richard Gay, BET’s executive vice president of strategy and operations, in a statement.
