Just in time for Black History Month, the iconic brands EBONY & JET are back.
NABJ-CC, News
The famed Black media publication that John H. Johnson founded in 1945 was recently purchased by former NBA star Junior Bridgeman for $14 million, after the publisher who bought it from Johnson Publishing was itself forced into bankruptcy earlier this year.
The athlete-turned-entrepreneur, an East Chicago native, said his company, Bridgeman Sports & Media, purchased the publication in hopes of preserving its legacy and making it profitable in this digital age.
Bridgeman last week announced the installation of Michele Ghee as CEO. Ghee has worked in the media and entertainment space for over a quarter of a century, generating billions of dollars in revenue while working for some of the companies including WME, CNN, A&E, The History Channel and BET Networks.
“Everything we say will come through the lens of Black journalists. We will ensure there is a safe space for Black journalism to thrive. I’m a little Black girl from Oakland, CA. I’m not apologizing for any of it. Our voices matter. We are History in the making!” said Ghee, who while at BET was responsible for creating and running the first and only network for black women: BETHer.
“Our brands’ main responsibility will be to focus completely on what our beloved audience wants and needs with bold informed editorial, brilliant content, and the opportunity to connect with like minded people. Paying homage to Mr. Johnson’s legacy means that my team will carve-out and create our own path. We will NOT succumb to the status quo.”