BET Just Laid Off Staff in Paramount Global Shake-Up

In a major move shaking up one of the biggest names in Black entertainment, BET is laying off employees across several departments as part of sweeping cuts by parent company Paramount Global. The news came straight from BET CEO Scott Mills in a memo to staff confirming that, yes, BET is feeling the heat just like the rest of Paramount’s empire.

The network, which has long stood as a cultural cornerstone for Black audiences, is “streamlining” its operations—corporate speak for layoffs. Mills didn’t specify how many were let go, but these cuts are part of Paramount’s plan to reduce its U.S. workforce by 3.5 percent. That reduction is impacting hundreds across the company, including popular platforms like CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.

Still, BET says it’s holding on to the departments that matter most to the brand and its mission. That includes content creation, marketing, streaming, digital, social impact, and ad sales. Other roles in areas like legal, finance, and research will now be handled by Paramount’s main support teams.

This corporate shake-up is happening as Paramount continues waiting on a green light for its high-profile merger with Skydance Media.

BET Media Group, home to BET, BET+, VH1, BET Studios and more, is widely known as the largest media company dedicated to Black culture. But even cultural powerhouses aren’t immune to the current economic pressures sweeping through the entertainment industry.

Mills called the moment “very difficult” and gave a nod to the talent being let go, thanking them for their work and commitment to the brand. He also reassured those still on board that BET remains strong, focused, and ready to push forward.

But with more consolidation likely on the horizon, industry insiders are asking one big question: Who’s next?