R&B icon Mary J. Blige is set to produce and host a new talk show for BET.
Titled The Wine Down, the show will feature “real talk” between Blige and figures from the entertainment, sports, social media, and political worlds, BET said in a recent press release. The conversations are described as unfiltered and will take place over wine.
The show is part of a new production deal giving BET a first look at non-scripted projects and a second look at scripted projects from Blige’s production company, Blue Butterfly.
“BET has been one of my biggest supporters throughout my career,” Blige said in a statement. “Being able to now create together, for them to be so supportive of my vision for the type of content I will create, is something I am grateful and excited for. We already have multiple projects in the works and there is much more to come.”
Related Story: Mary J. Blige to Executive Produce Lifetime Movie Inspired by Her Song ‘Real Love’
The talk show is currently in development and will premiere in 2023.
“Throughout her legendary career, Mary has blazed trails to become a global superstar. With Blue Butterfly, Mary develops awe-inspiring stories of the Black experience while uniquely using music to set the foundation. Mary has been a vital part of the BET family and we are eager to see our partnership flourish through this partnership,” added Connie Orlando, EVP of specials, music programming & music strategy at BET.
The first announced guests on the talk show include Taraji P. Henson and rapper Yung Miami of City Girls. Additional guests will be announced later.
Blue Butterfly also has a first-look scripted television deal with Lionsgate, as previously reported.
