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G-Unit Film & Television Inc. is raising the stakes with G-Unit Studios, launched in Shreveport, Louisiana, on April 18, 2024. Mayor Tom Arceneaux honored actor, entrepreneur, and rapper 50 Cent with a key to the city. The Shreveport Times reports that this is the mayor’s first public presentation of a key. The mayor also designated April 18 as Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Day.
G-Unit, short for Gorilla Unit, started as a hip-hop group in 2002 and includes a clothing company and a non-profit, G-Unity Foundation. Founded in 2003, G-Unit Film & Television Inc. produces shows, including the popular Starz TV series “Power.” Other prominent shows are “Power” spinoffs “Raising Kanan,” “Force,” “Ghost,” and “BMF.”
50 Cent was unhappy with his dealings with Starz and shared his sentiments on social media in a now-deleted post.
“This is me packing my stuff, Starz. Sucks, my deal is up over here. I’m out. They renewed Hightown, and Force is the highest-rated show they have sitting in limbo,” 50 wrote via The Hollywood Reporter. “If I told you how much dumb s–t I deal with over here.”
The producer decided to leave Starz and signed a non-exclusive multi-project broadcast deal with Fox in February 2023. From there, he’ll develop scripted dramas, live-action comedies, and animated series.
“Whether it’s music, film, or television, Curtis always delivers premium entertainment that captivates millions of fans across the globe,” said Michael Thorn, President of Scripted Programming at Fox Entertainment, in a statement via Revolt. “He is the rare multi-hyphenate with a deft hand at storytelling, no matter the format or medium, and we’re looking forward to developing new and exciting series for Fox with him and his team.”
G-Unit Film & Television Studios will allow for more creative projects.
Previously known as Millenium Studios, Shreveport owned the lot before G-Unit Studios attained the lease. G-Unit and the city signed a 30-year contract at $2,400 per year, with an option to extend for 15 years.
“From the gritty narratives of the streets to the compelling stories that define our era, G-Unit has always been more than just entertainment; it’s a platform for voices that need to be heard, stories that need to be told,” 50 Cent told Billboard. “Bringing G-Unit Studios to Shreveport is not just a business decision; it’s a commitment to fostering talent, creating opportunities, and building a community that thrives through creativity and innovation. We see Shreveport as a beacon of inspiration and creativity.”
Shreveport anticipates an upsurge in the local economy.
Shreveport and surrounding areas can look forward to an economic boost from the newly renovated studios. There’s hope for the development of jobs and an influx of talent to the city.
“We are thrilled that G-Unit Studios will plant its roots in Shreveport,” Mr. Arceneaux told Billboard. “This city’s rich culture and talent provides the perfect backdrop for this endeavor. We are eager to collaborate with Mr. Jackson and G-Unit Film & Television to bring captivating movies and entertainment to Shreveport and Caddo Parish.”
Setting events in motion, 50 Cent announced on social media that 2024’s “Humor & Harmony” is scheduled for August 8 to August 12 in Shreveport. 50’s cognac brand Branson and his champagne brand Le Chemin du Roi are associated with the long summer weekend.
Check out HumorHarmonyWeekend.com for more information on the forthcoming celebration.
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.