These days, African-American viewers are getting more choices. The number of television networks targeting blacks is growing. One of the newest networks is Bounce TV [3], which according to its creators, is the fastest growing African American network in television.
Launched just over a year ago by Martin Luther King III and Ambassador Andrew Young, among others, Bounce TV is available in 80 percent of African American households and 65 million homes nationally. The network airs 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the digital signals of local television stations. The network targets African Americans primarily between the ages of 25-54.
The network recently announced new programming—an original series called Off The Chain, a half-hour stand-up comedy series, will feature performances by some of the country’s top African American comics. Rodney Perry (Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family, Mo’Nique Show) is the host of the new show. Here, we interview Perry about Bounce TV and his new show.
TNJ: Why did you feel this was a good project to work on?
Rodney Perry: First of all, it's a new network and it’s great being on the ground floor of something so special. Secondly, there isn't any comedy on television showcasing urban comedy.
TNJ: You have worked with TV One, BET and now Bounce. Do you feel TV is getting more diverse?
RP: I believe that the grown-up (25-40) African American audience has been underserved up until now. It's great to see so much original programming.
TNJ: Why do you feel Bounce is growing so rapidly?
RP: It's free. In a down economy, I think people appreciate a good thing when it's quality and fairly priced.
TNJ: Do you feel the show will attract a broad audience since it is humor, or do you feel that because it is on Bounce, Bounce’s main target audience will be those tuning in?
RP: Comedy is the great equalizer. Regardless of your background, the fact is, we all love and need to laugh. I know we will hit the Bounce core demo, and if you are channel surfing and come across "Off The Chain" you, too, will become a BOUNCER.