Getting Real

VH1 Shifts Tone on Black Reality TV

Favoring more "mature" programming.

Those tuning into VH1 this month for a dose of bitch-slaps, gratuitous sex, and unnecessary expletives might be disappointed. The network that's home to such low-brow classics like "Flavor of Love" and "Rock of Love" is changing up the nature of its African-American-centric reality content. Its new roster includes a dating show starring Rozonda Thomas (Chilli from TLC), without the "trampiness" of "Flavor of Love." She'll be wined and dined by men in tuxes. Sibling R&B singers Ray J and Brandy Norwood will star in "Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business," which will follow the two as they navigate the challenges of reviving their music careers. "I love that we've been able to get more diverse with our audience by—in large part—attracting African-American women to the network," said VH1 executive vice president Jeff Olde. "We got them in the door with some shows, and now I'm excited about where we're going and how we're telling them different kinds of stories."