BET is facing a wave of layoffs following a strategic move by parent company Paramount to reduce its U.S. workforce by 3.5%. In a company-wide memo, BET CEO Scott Mills confirmed the decision, highlighting that several core departments—such as linear research, finance, and business and legal affairs—will be affected.
The staff reduction forms part of Paramount's broader restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining operations and adjusting to the rapidly evolving digital media landscape. With linear television viewership on the decline and consumer focus shifting toward streaming platforms, traditional media giants are reevaluating their business models to remain competitive.
Though the specific number of BET employees impacted was not revealed, the layoffs are expected to significantly affect the network's internal operations. The targeted departments are integral to BET’s content development, strategic planning, and legal infrastructure, making the reductions a substantial blow to day-to-day activities.
This development underscores the growing pressure on legacy media companies to transform amid audience fragmentation and technological disruption. Paramount's decision reflects a widespread industry trend of downsizing in favor of digital agility and cost efficiency.