Robert L. Johnson

Enamored with television and the potential power it held, Robert Louis Johnson envisioned a network all his own. That channel would one day be Black Entertainment Television or B.E.T. After graduating from Princeton University, he realized his vision and built what would become the first black-founded company to appear on the New York Stock Exchange. In 2002, when he sold BET for $3 billion, he became the first black billionaire in American history.

Though he has no idea, Robert Johnson’s life has a profound impact on my own. I grew up with the music videos, news programs and shows like Teen Summit (1989-2002) his network produced. I was glued go the tube whenever shows like 106 & Park (2000-2014) and Rap City: The Basement (1989-2008) aired.

Johnson envisioned BET long before I was born though. He had a picture in his mind of black Americans producing entertainment content comparable to mega channels like MTV.

He should be most proud of the news content that his staff provided in shows like BET Tonight (1998-2001) that added a sense of knowledge to his growing audience. The nightly news benefitted his viewers with continual information about the United States and the world.

Johnson served in his role as CEO of BET until 2006. He would later found RLJ Companies, which supports everything from private equity to entertainment concerns. Johnson also sits on various boards, including KB Home, Lowe’s Companies, Inc., and Strayer Education. The fervor and passion Johnson brought to BET is still with him in these new ventures.

Johnson saw his wealth decrease from a billion dollars to $600 million, and that’s why he’s still driven to work so smart. He’s even persevered despite harsh criticism for taking his channel away from covering news-centric programming, and amplifying content that some argue damaged the black individual.

Johnson made history in sports too when he became the first black American owner of a major franchise: the Charlotte Bobcats. He later sold it to Michael Jordan, a future black billionaire at the time.

With all of his ways to excel, Johnson still found himself in hot water politically. In remarks supporting Hillary Clinton’s run for the presidency, Johnson made some disparaging comments regarding then Senator Barack Obama. However, Johnson seemed unfazed by all of this. Fast forward to the election of Donald Trump, and he changed his view of the Clintons, and tacitly supported Trump.

Despite facing controversy, Johnson has still found a way to advance his business life. He has been able to champion causes that bring him even more dollars. His acumen affords him the ability to create wealth his way, on his terms. Blacks of the past who had made a way for themselves are reflected in Johnson’s individualistic actions.

He raised himself up because of his brain power and convictions. Though he may have stumbled a bit, it was not pride that caused him to fall. His pride and persistence in the face of challenges helped him forge ahead through whatever hindrances he faced. He found a way to fight afgainst whatever hindered or hampered him.

Now, as the leader of so many companies, combined into one, Johnson is poised to continue rebuilding his fortune into the billions. By closing deals with companies like AMC for video on demand streaming to go with his Urban Movie Channel, he faces the future of home entertainment.

I think Johnson should follow the example of past black media giants like John H. Johnson (no relation) as he continues to rebuild his wealth. He should focus on capitalism. This system which lifted him from the lower rungs of the corporate ladder will allow him to reach the top. I have no doubt he will bring in more cash. He’s driven enough to keep going no matter what may come his way.