BET Networks has named Zola Mashariki as Head Of Original Programming. Based in Los Angeles California, she will oversee scripted and unscripted programming and development as well as casting for the cable network, reporting to BET Networks president of programming Stephen Hill.
They have been shuffling people and programming over at BET since September with the departure of President Of Original Programming Loretha Jones. Then in December, BET promoted President of Music Programming & Specials Stephen Hill to President of Programming and then canceled its longest running show 106 & Park. With the addition of Zola Mashariki, BET is definitely hoping she will fill a void they now have with programming.
Graduating from Dartmouth College and Harvard Law School, she spent the last 15 years at Fox Searchlight and help create The Black Film Initiative, which helped develop African-American based movies for African-American audiences. The Black Film Initiative helped develop such films as The Secret Life of Bees and Notorious. Mashariki’s resume has Academy award nominated movies and fan favorites. She worked on such movies as The Last King of Scotland, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, I Think I Love My Wife, Our Family Wedding and Just Wright.
I doubt she’ll bring back some favorites like BET:Uncut or Rap City, but maybe, just maybe we will get some music videos played.
