FAMU Alumni Rob Hardy and Will Packer Launch Bounce TV

Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumni Will Packer and Rob Hardy will launch Bounce TV this fall, the first African-American digital multicast broadcast network geared toward African Americans in the 25-54 age range.

Bounce TV will feature a programming mix of theatrical motion pictures, sporting events, documentaries, specials, inspirational faith-based programs, off-network series, original programming and more.

Hardy will serve as the chief content officer, and Packer in the chief strategy and marketing officer position. Other founders include Martin Luther King III, former United Nations Ambassador and Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young and Andrew “Bo” Young III.

Packer and Hardy started their production company, Rainforest Films, in 1994. One of their most successful projects, “Stomp the Yard,” grossed more than $65 million and held the No. 1 position at the box office for two weekends in January of 2007. Later that year, the company produced “This Christmas,” which made $50 million. The success of both projects landed the duo amongst the “Top 25 Entertainers and Moneymakers” in Black Enterprise magazine in 2008.

In 2010, Packer and Hardy were named as one of FAMU’s 40 alumni Under 40 years old. The duo have also begun production of the movie, “Think Like a Man,” a comedic adaptation of actor and comedian Steve Harvey’s New York Times best-selling book, Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man.