Robert L. Johnson - Billionaires.Africa

How Robert L. Johnson lost his billionaire status after building BET and Quietly won it back

BET founder Robert L. Johnson has reclaimed his place among the world's billionaires after decades of quiet, disciplined reinvention.

, and Otobong Tommy

April 1, 2026

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North America

BET founder Robert L. Johnson is a billionaire again, Forbes says

BET founder Robert L. Johnson is a billionaire again, Forbes says, underscoring how the cable TV pioneer rebuilt a nine figure fortune into ten.

, and Mfonobong Nsehe

February 23, 2026

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Black Billionaires

World’s first Black billionaire, Robert L. Johnson, leads trust to $691 million half-year revenue

RLJ Lodging Trust posts $691.2 million H1 revenue, with CEO Robert L. Johnson steering steady results despite margin and occupancy pressures.

, and Mfonobong Nsehe

August 8, 2025

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Black Billionaires

World’s first Black billionaire leads real estate trust to $328 million Q1 revenue

RLJ Lodging Trust posted $328.1 million in Q1 revenue, a modest gain, as hotel conversions offset margin pressure, pulling net income down to $3.2 million.

, and Mfonobong Nsehe

May 6, 2025

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Black Billionaires

World’s first Black billionaire Robert L. Johnson’s REIT hits $1.3 billion in revenue

RLJ Lodging Trust’s revenue hit $1.37 billion in 2024, but net income dropped 11.2% due to rising costs, despite strategic acquisitions and capital allocation.

, and Mfonobong Nsehe

February 27, 2025

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Exclusive

Companies owned by the world’s first Black billionaire Robert L. Johnson

Using the proceeds from the sale of BET, he has invested in new ventures, leveraging his expertise to construct a varied portfolio of companies through The RLJ Companies.

, and Mfonobong Nsehe

February 19, 2024

Paid Members Public