BET Goes to the Dogs With Michael Vick Reality Show

Cable net picks up an eight-part documentary-style series following dogfighting ringmaster as he attempts to rebuild his life and reputation

If BET is looking to counter-program against Cesar Millan, well, job done.

If they're looking to find a sympathetic audience for Michael Vick's newly announced reality show, well, they certainly have their work cut out for them.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the freshly reinstated (sorry, Kendra & Hank) NFL star will feature in an eight-part documentary-style reality show to air early next year on the cable net.

The show, tentatively if not creatively titled The Michael Vick Project, will follow the dogfighting ringmaster as he joins up with the Philadelphia Eagles, rebuilds relationships with his fiancée and kids and attempts to make amends—presumably of both the court-ordered and PR-advised variety—for his 2007 arrest.

"I just want people to really get to know me as an individual," he told the paper. "What I want to do is change the perception of me. I am a human being. I've made some mistakes in the past, and I wish it had never happened. But it's not about how you fall, but about how you pick yourself up."

And it just so happens Vick will be picking himself up with help from a possibly lucrative TV contract and a rather unexpected supporter.

Potential Very Special Episodes will revolve around his revisiting the federal prison where he served 18 months and the Virginia property on which he ran the inhumane operation.

PETA, as expected, has already spoken out in opposition to the series and, more specifically, to the idea of Vick profiting in the wake of his atrocious acts. There's no word on how much Vick, whose company is also coproducing the show, is being paid.

Somewhat surprisingly on Vick's side—in addition to the Eagles—is the Humane Society, which has recruited the footballer to help in their campaign to end inner-city abuse of dogs.