In just its first episode, Nelly’s family oriented Nellyville BET show is looking to expand on the stigma that comes along with much of today’s television programming.
Named after the star rapper’s multi-platinum sophomore album, the show’s premise paints Nelly as a modern-day Cliff Huxtable, without the underlying creepiness.
Cornell Haynes, Jr. is the proud father of four young adults; two his own and two he sheltered after his sister tragically died from leukemia in 2005, sparking a bit of controversy for his subsequent humanitarian efforts. Unlike most reality bits where the central character creates outlandish scenarios made possible from a bottomless bank account, Nellyville gets straight to painfully topics for the rolling cameras.
Aside from the fact his niece and nephew still haven’t properly addressed the passing of their mother Chanelle, Nelly’s 20-year-old virgin daughter is still coping with her boyfriend being gunned down just several feet away from her at a party. The self-admitted overprotective patriarch gets coaxed by his girlfriend Shantel a.k.a. “Miss Jackson” a.k.a. Floyd Mayweather’s ex to have a heartful sitdown with his daughter, and that sets the precedence for the show’s voice.
The initial reaction was nearly unanimous with positivity. Given the current circumstances in Ferguson, Nelly’s role in the community–and decision to shoot the show in St. Louis sets the stage for more candid moments to be captured as the season progresses.
Flip through the gallery below to see what the people are saying about Nellyville and check in with BET for TV listing times.
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Photos: BET
