Alfred C. Liggins III

It has been an eventful year for Liggins and his newly renamed media empire. The company—which extends far beyond cable—adopted the moniker Urban One. Today, the business reaches 82% of black America. This year TV One also spruced up its programming, adding an extra hour of news coverage, more true crime and increased digital content. “The cable industry has certainly improved in its programming of diverse content,” Liggins says. “We have real competition today. Black people are in leading roles more now than ever before and there are a host of shows targeting our audience.” The network also has sought to lessen its dependence on ad revenue, instead establishing partnerships with brands including American Express and MGM National Harbor.