AceShowbiz - LL Cool J and Queen Latifah have become members of BET’s inaugural advisory board, AllHipHop reports. This newly formed group of six cultural leaders is tasked with guiding the network’s future direction and cultural strategy, underscoring BET’s ongoing influence in Black entertainment.

The advisory board also includes BET founder Bob Johnson, NFL executive Troy Vincent, financial expert Raymond J. McGuire, and Paramount TV Media chair George Cheeks, Variety details. Bet adds that Louis Carr, BET’s president, explained the board will offer strategic and cultural counsel as BET evolves and uplifts significant voices and narratives. Carr further conveyed that BET remains a cultural institution with a duty to serve and advance its community, and the board’s role is to support this mission while helping to shape the network’s future.

LL Cool J is widely recognized as a pioneering hip-hop artist known for his debut single "I Can't Live Without My Radio" from the 1985 album "Radio." Beyond music, he has built an extensive acting career with 29 credited roles, including appearances in the TV series In the House and films like "Deep Blue Sea" and "Halloween H20: 20 Years Later." His work has earned multiple award nominations, highlighting his versatility in entertainment.

This advisory board launch comes amid significant shifts at BET, including Paramount’s acquisition of Tyler Perry’s 25% stake in BET+ and the network’s plan to fold BET+ content into Paramount+ next month, Variety confirms. These moves, alongside leadership changes such as Louis Carr stepping in as BET president after Scott Mills’ departure, highlight a strategic push to strengthen BET’s cultural and business footprint. The board’s guidance will be crucial as BET seeks to navigate this evolving landscape while maintaining its role as a cornerstone for Black culture and storytelling.

This article is based on reporting originally published by AllHipHop.