Desi Banks Scores BET Sitcom Order

From Digital Fame To Scripted Comedy

Comedian and YouTube sensation Desi Banks confirmed a major career milestone in a heartfelt Instagram post: a multi-camera sitcom is officially in development at BET. “It’s really happening… a Desi Banks Sitcom! 🙌🏾” he wrote, kicking off an optimistic update for fans who have followed his journey since 2012.

Banks—born Desi Terrell Banks Jr. in Fayetteville, Georgia—rose to prominence on Vine before transitioning to YouTube, where he now boasts millions of subscribers. His keen eye for relatable humor and viral-short sketches paved the way for stand-up tours, on-screen appearances in series like Insecure and Star, and partnerships with major brands.

Behind The Pitch

In his Instagram caption, Banks thanked the faith that has guided him and the supporters who stayed with him through “highs and lows.” He singled out @champwroteit for co-writing the pilot, and saluted collaborators @hueyfreemansuncle, @coachk44 and @chrishicks_ for strategy sessions that helped refine the concept. “Thank you @BET for believing in me and giving me and @champwroteit the opportunity to walk into that room and pitch something special. That moment changed everything,” he wrote.

Also mentioned was @michaelc0llins_, whose encouragement “reminded me of who I am and what I carry.” Banks closed his note by invoking the legends who inspired him—and pledging to become one himself.

Stand-up Roots Drive Momentum

Long before the TV cameras rolled, Banks built his reputation on live comedy stages. In late April, he shared a flashback from Tampa, celebrating a sold-out weekend as part of his “Elevation” stand-up tour:

“Forever symbolizing the grind, it don’t walk to you I make it run like horses do! Tampa thank yall for a sold Out Weekend yall show up and show out every time for me and Parlay. Love yall 4L and always coming back yesssir! #Elevation #StandUpComedy #ComeSeeMeLive” (https://www.instagram.com/p/DKYf8GluzCs/)

That energy and direct connection with audiences helped refine the sitcom’s premise—a family-centered comedy inspired by Banks’s own experiences, blending heartfelt moments with punchy humor.

The Bet Opportunity

BET executives have sharpened their scripted lineup in recent years, spotlighting multicultural voices with fresh perspectives. Banks’s upcoming series represents that strategy: a social-media grounded creative stepping behind the writers’ table, crafting characters and situations drawn from his community. Industry insiders say the network greenlit a script order based on the strength of Banks’s pitch and his built-in digital audience.

While details of the cast, episode count and premiere date remain under wraps, collaborators are already in motion. Champions of the project aim to strike a balance between Banks’s signature solo sketches and the ensemble dynamics that define classic sitcoms. Early production is slated to begin later this year.

Looking Ahead

This announcement marks Banks’s first scripted starring role on television. Fans can expect behind-the-scenes teasers and casting news in the coming months as production gears up. With faith, a dedicated fan base, and seasoned partners at his side, Banks is poised to make the leap from phone screens to living rooms nationwide.

Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated series as Desi Banks writes the next chapter of his comedy career.

Trivia

Desi Banks aims to inspire others through his work, encouraging them to pursue their passions and stay true to themselves.

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Pratibha

 

Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.

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