BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , announces its hottest July ever, with five new original shows joining its primetime lineup. BET's "July Jump Off" begins Monday, July 9, and will include the following programs: HELL DATE and BALDWIN HILLS, two tantalizing reality shows; SOCIALLY OFFENSIVE BEHAVIOR (S.O.B.), a hidden camera show; TAKE THE CAKE, an innovative new interactive game show; and HOT GHETTO MESS, a hilarious video clip show with powerful social commentary.

"We're bringing the summer heat inside this year, with five new shows that really speak to our audience and are different from anything else on TV," said Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment, BET Networks. BET Networks is serious about our commitment to original programming, and this is just the jump-off to what will be our most ambitious slate in history."


These five new shows were first announced at BET's Upfront presentation in May. While HELL DATE will likely make those on the single scene screen their potential dates much more carefully, TAKE THE CAKE, hosted by Toccara and Joe Clair, will not only entertain viewers with featured guest stars and performances, but will fatten their wallets as well. BALDWIN HILLS will explore the lives of 12 kids - some from this upscale area while others live north of Crenshaw Blvd. in a rough neighborhood called "The Jungle" - as they interact and split their time between school, parties, college entrance exams and hanging out. Lastly, S.O.B., from the producers of Punk'd and hosted by D.L. Hughley, shows pranks with a political edge, and the videos brought to you by Charlie Murphy on HOT GHETTO MESS are sure to spark some healthy debate about our culture.