Robert L. Johnson

Robert L. Johnson is an American entrepreneur, businessman, and philanthropist best known as the founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET), the first cable network aimed primarily at African American audiences. Launched in 1980, BET became a significant platform for music, culture, and news relevant to Black communities. Johnson made history in 2001 by becoming the first African American billionaire when he sold BET to Viacom. Beyond entertainment, he has engaged in various business ventures, including real estate and private equity, and is involved in philanthropy focused on education and economic empowerment.