TV One Announces Major Changes to TV Lineup

TV One has announced that the network will be doing away with some of our favorite programs. We are not surprised at the changes given the rumors of behind-the-scenes scandals and declined viewership. Nevertheless, the television shows that hit the chopping block this week were “The Rickey Smiley Show” and, of course, “R&B Divas“.

According to media insider, Rodney Ho of the AJC, the new head honcho over at TV One, Brad Siegel, made the decision to can both shows. “The Rickey Smiley Show,” which was produced by Roger Bobb (remember Demetria McKinney’s significant other on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta”), captured a decent viewership when its first season aired. However, over time the ratings dropped. The show was an off-shoot of Rickey Smiley’s real life as a father and radio show host.

We guess The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, “The Rickey Smiley Show,” and Dish Nation was a bit too much Rickey for most folks. 

Next to get the boot was “R&B Divas”. The reality show that followed the lives of some of our favorite songstresses from the 90’s lasted only three seasons. The original cast consisted of Nicci Gilbert, Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, Monifah Carter, and KeKe Wyatt. Along the way, Angie Stone, LaTocha Scott, Kameelah Williams, and LaTavia Roberson were added to not much fanfare from viewers apparently. Per the AJC article, the lost of cast members over time may have been one of the reasons why the show was canceled. Not to mention the legal actions pursued by cast member and executive producer Nicci Gilbert. [READ: And Another One…’R&B Divas’ Axed By TV One]

With two shows gone, TV One is not slacking up on their programming though. “Hollywood Divas” is returning for a second season. The surprise is that actress Vivica Fox will be joining the cast. She should be quite an interesting-yet-entertaining addition to the group. Other shows that will be returning as well are “Unsung,” “Unsung Hollywood,” “Fatal Attraction,” “News One Now,” and “Verses and Flow.”

To see the full list of new programming TV One will be introducing, check the full article HERE.