When aspireTV launched in 2012, its mission was clear: to provide a platform that highlights positive cultural references centered on Black life, culture, and stories. As Angela Cannon, UP Entertainment’s Executive Vice President, Networks and Content Strategy & General Manager of aspireTV, explained that commitment has only deepened over time.
“Our tagline is ‘See Yourself Here,’ and that’s exactly what we’re doing - providing a platform for Black excellence and representation,” Cannon said. “Our upcoming slate leans into that mission more than ever before.”
This fall, aspireTV is showcasing a mix of food, travel, film, and legacy programming that speaks to both its mission and its audience. “Food, travel, and film together capture the essence of aspireTV.”
City EatsExpands to Savannah
After two seasons of City Eats: Atlanta, aspireTV is bringing in a new city and perspective with City Eats: Savannah. Chef G. Garvin, who served as executive producer on the Atlanta edition, steps in front of the camera this season as host, succeeding Chopped champion and executive chef, Kristol Bryant. “We thought, why not bring him on as host? He's very charismatic. He's great in front of the camera and he knows food,” Cannon explained.
The choice of Savannah, Georgia, as the new backdrop was equally intentional. “Savannah is one of those cities with soul and rhythm,” Cannon said. “You feel the culture in the food, the places you visit, and the history -- whether it’s the legacy of slavery or the Gullah Geechee community. It’s a city rich with stories aspireTV needs to tell, and that’s why Savannah is so important to us.”
This season also highlights diverse culinary traditions and the personal stories behind them. “We had the opportunity to feature the first Filipino family-owned restaurant in Savannah,” Cannon shared. “Viewers will see why they chose to bring their culture to the city and how it enriches the community.
By weaving together family histories, personal passions, and cultural intersections, City Eats: Savannah offers an intimate look at the city’s vibrant food scene. “Focusing on Savannah brings a new level of intimacy to the series,” Cannon said. “This season is all about the storylines -- spotlighting families, cultures, and food -- and it’s incredible to see such a vibrant community come to life.”
Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo Returns
AspireTV’s food-focused programming continues with Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo. The Grammy-nominated rapper, actress, and reality TV star is stepping into her most authentic self this season. The new season premieres Thursday, October 16th at 8pm Eastern.
“Yo-Yo is just amazing -- she’s fully and completely comfortable in her own skin,” Cannon said. “This season, she welcomes special guests, including her mother, who shares stories about her upbringing, and Vin ‘Vinnie’ Rock from the Grammy-winning group Naughty by Nature. Yo-Yo brings her authentic self into the kitchen, and it makes for a really fun show.”
Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City
For nearly a century, the Harlem Globetrotters have been global ambassadors of basketball and culture. The new season of aspireTV’s Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City continues to provide viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at their lives on and off the court.
“The Globetrotters are legendary. The fans always know when they’re coming to town every year. My own parents took me every single year to see the world-famous Globetrotters,” Cannon recalled.
The series follows the team as they travel to more than 300 cities each year, exploring cultures and communities far beyond the basketball court. “On the court, they’re athletes; off the court, they’re urban explorers and storytellers,” Cannon said. “They dive into new foods, embrace traditions, and intentionally highlight diverse communities. It goes far beyond basketball -- it’s about our culture, globally.” Cannon said.
By spotlighting the Globetrotters’ as cultural connectors, aspireTV brings their global impact to audiences at home. “This is an opportunity to see aspireTV's mission come to life - bridging cultures and resonating worldwide - while also building connections through sports and our shared humanity,” Cannon explained.
Uplifting Emerging Storytellers
AspireTV has long championed independent filmmakers, providing a platform for voices that may not otherwise be heard. Urban Indie Film Block continues this mission by showcasing shorts across genres, from romance to sci-fi. The new season premieres October 14th at 8pm Eastern.
“Since day one, aspireTV’s mission has been to amplify the voices of emerging content creators,” Cannon said. “Whether their work is a five-minute short or a half-hour film, we’ve been able to connect with filmmakers who might not otherwise have access to a platform or distribution outlet, ensuring their stories are seen.”
The goal is to inspire and nurture future filmmakers while elevating and sharing stories that deserve to be told. “Our role is not only to be a culture amplifier, but we also want to connect communities and celebrate and champion their work. And that's what we do through our *Urban Indie Film Block* show,” Cannon emphasized.
Expanding Reach and Access
Beyond its linear network, aspireTV is expanding its digital footprint with aspireTV+, now available on Amazon Prime Video, Roku, and Xfinity.
“What's really exciting about aspireTV is how accessible it is, reaching audiences across both our linear network and our streaming platform, aspireTV+,” Cannon said. “Whether you're on your phone, tablet, or at home, you can find aspireTV pretty much anywhere.”
With programming that spans food, travel, film, and sports, aspireTV is confident its fall slate will resonate with audiences of all kinds. ‘Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, a hip-hop fan, or a film lover, there’s something on the network you can connect with,’ Cannon said.
At its core, aspireTV’s fall 2025 programming reaffirms the network’s mission of celebrating Black culture, uplifting diverse voices, and creating a sense of community.
It’s unique and different -- more than just food, flavor, culture, and fun. It’s also about legacy, pride, and belonging. That’s why this fall slate is so exciting, and I’m truly thrilled about it,” Cannon said.
Posted at MediaVillage through the Thought Leadership self-publishing platform.
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