Robert L. Johnson
- Born:
- April 8, 1946, Hickory, Mississippi, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Businessman, Media Executive, Investor
Early Life and Education
- Born as one of ten children in Hickory, Mississippi.
- Graduated from the University of Illinois with a B.A. in social studies in 1968.
- Received a master's degree in public affairs from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University in 1972.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his career in public affairs.
- Lobbied for the cable television industry.
- Founded Black Entertainment Television (BET) in 1980.
- BET became the first Black-owned company listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 1991.
- Sold BET to Viacom in 2001 for approximately $3 billion.
- Founded RLJ Companies, a private investment firm, investing in various sectors including hospitality, real estate, and media.
- Became the first African American majority owner of a major professional sports franchise, the Charlotte Bobcats (now Charlotte Hornets), in 2003. He later sold his majority stake.
Notable Works
- Founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET).
- Founder of RLJ Companies.
- Former Majority Owner of the Charlotte Bobcats/Hornets.
Legacy and Impact
Robert L. Johnson revolutionized the media landscape by creating the first television network dedicated to African American audiences. His entrepreneurial endeavors paved the way for increased representation and economic empowerment within the Black community, making the name 'robert l johnson biography bette' synonymous with significant milestones for diversity in business.
Film and Television Production
Johnson's RLJ Entertainment has invested in and produced a variety of films and television series.
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Titles Unavailable | Various | Producer/Investor (via RLJ Entertainment) |