The Oval and Sistas, written, directed and produced by Tyler Perry (Precious), emerged as the most popular series on the BET Channel in 2019. Amid the pandemic, these shows are the first to return to full-time production for a second season, according to TV Guide.
On April 30, Brian Kemp, governor of Georgia, lifted the stay-at-home order, allowing Perry to film at his Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta effective July 8.
A statement from BET President Scott Mills said he was glad to have The Oval and Sistas renewed. “BET is committed to investing in quality programming from top industry power players and giving viewers more of the content they love and expect from the brand across our platforms,” Mills said to TV Guide.
The Oval follows the story of Hunter Franklin and his family into the White House while highlighting the inner relationships of the overlooked White House staff. Notable cast members include Ed Quinn (2 Broke Girls) who plays President Hunter Franklin and Kron Moore (Outsourced) who plays First Lady Victoria Franklin. Season one currently has 12 episodes.
Sistas is about the bonds formed through trying to date in Atlanta. In a sea of swipe-lefts, social media drama and realistic #relationshipgoals, these friends try to find their Mr. Right, according to the show summary on BET. Season 1 of Sistas currently has 25 episodes and features KJ Smith (A Madea Family Funeral) as Andi, Mignon Von (C U Later Tuesday) as Danni and Ebony Obsidian (Tough Love) as Karen.
Both shows premiered in October 2019. When the shows return, The Oval will air 9PM ET followed by Sistas at 10PM ET Wednesday nights on BET.