Former Carolina Panthers star Cam Newton‘s latest step into the media spotlight has come to a swift halt, with BET confirming that 106 & Sports will not return beyond its initial run.
The short-lived series, fronted by the former NFL MVP, wrapped after only eight episodes despite arriving with high expectations and heavyweight backing.
The programme debuted on October 15, 2025 on BET+ and aired its final instalment on December 3.
In a statement to The Atlanta Journal Constitution, the network made its position clear.
“It will not produce additional seasons of ‘106 & Sports,” it read. “The previous season will continue to live across BET platforms.”
That decision brings an end to a project designed to channel the energy of 106 & Park, the influential music and pop culture show that ran from 2000 to 2014 and cultivated a loyal audience.
Show fails to take off despite famous guests
Newton‘s version attempted to reinterpret that blueprint through a sports lens, blending athlete interviews, cultural commentary and topical discussion.
Newton co-hosted the weekly show with NBA analyst Ashley Nicole Moss. Behind the scenes, it carried significant pedigree.
The series was produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter through The SpringHill Company, giving it both star power and industry credibility.
Early episodes featured guests such as rapper LiAngelo Ball, WNBA standout Brittney Griner, boxer Claressa Shields and former NFL receiver Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson.
Yet strong production support and recognisable names did not translate into sustained viewership.
The cancellation arrives during a period of leadership changes and strategic realignment at BET, factors that reportedly influenced programming decisions across the network.
Podcast remarks add fuel to the conversation
The show’s ending also comes on the heels of renewed scrutiny surrounding Newton‘s public comments away from television.
On a recent episode of his Funky Friday podcast, Newton shared his thoughts on platonic relationships with women, remarks that quickly drew widespread reaction online.
“I’m not about to be around no women platonically,” Newton told. “Because I’m not about to play them type of games.
“It may be self-control. If she fine, I’m not about to have her around playing that I don’t think that she’s attractive. I don’t have good-looking women that’s friend around me.”
The clip circulated rapidly, sparking debate and criticism. Moss, who shared hosting duties with Newton on 106 & Sports, appeared visibly uneasy when the topic surfaced in subsequent discussions and did not seem aligned with his viewpoint.
BET has not linked the show’s cancellation directly to those comments, and the official explanation centres on programming direction.
Still, the timing has invited speculation about whether the controversy complicated an already fragile situation for a new series seeking to establish a foothold.
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