Father and Son Behind Black-Owned Impact Network Expand Into Entertainment Sector

Bishop Wayne T. Jackson and his son, Royal Jackson, are working collectively to further uplift the urban inspirational voice through their Detroit-based, Black-owned, and family-founded media empire Impact Network.

Impact’s chief executive officer and founder, Wayne T. Jackson, promoted his son to an executive role. As the new chief creative officer and head of original content, Royal is poised to “oversee all crossover efforts for the network and manage programming, as well as produce and direct select content for the expanding lifestyle block,” Variety reported.

Impact Network, established in 2010 by Bishop Jackson and his wife, Dr. Beverly Y. Jackson, launched the broadcast network using personal savings of $150,000. To date, the network has become the largest and fastest-growing 100 percent Black-founded and operated inspirational network, broadcasting in over 80 million homes.

Amid the new promotion, the faith-based Impact announced its expansion into entertainment and lifestyle content with an original block entitled “Super Saturdays.” Royal is leading this effort with programming that includes talker/cooking show Soul Food with Love and Hip Hop star Tara Wallace and Behind the Grind, hosted by musician and actor Fredro Starr.

“Impact’s new ‘Super Saturdays’ lineup will have something for everyone and is just a sample of what’s to come as the network continues to build and expand beyond Saturdays and into weekly dayparts,” Royal explained, per Variety.

“Our plan is to build on the network’s loyal, multi-generational audience profile and engage them in a variety of ways.”

The elder Jackson praised his son’s contributions to the company and is excited to have his son onboard on a new executive level.

“For the past 12 years, my son has been an intricate part of this company helping brand the network to where it is today as he continues to build the foundation for this exciting direction,” the proud father said. “With his creative leadership, I am excited for Royal to lead our growth as we continue to evolve and provide more for our community’s future.”