The party was at Government Plaza Thursday afternoon as Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson cemented his relationship with the city of Shreveport.
Hundreds of people gathered to watch a ceremonial signing of his lease of the city-owned movie studio that now bears the name of his company, G-Unit.
The ceremony on the steps of Government Plaza included performances by the Huntington and BTW high schools’ marching bands.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux gave 50 Cent a key to the city and declared today 50 Cent Day.
“This is the first public presentation I’ve made of a key to the city in my administration,” said Arceneaux.
City officials and Jackson are looking forward to the future of entertainment in Shreveport.
“And I want to remind you that betting on me is not a gamble. It’s a sure thing, because together we will make history,” said Jackson.
50 Cent said he is excited for his future in Shreveport.
“It’s more than just a business decision. This is a commitment to fostering talent, to creating opportunities and to invest in the community itself, to build what I would need to be able to execute what I got going with G Unit Studios. It is going to create a lot of jobs,” said Jackson.
The city first reached an agreement for him to buy the old Millennium Studios in November. He took possession on Jan. 1. Under the agreement, G-Unit will lease the building for 30 years at a cost of $2,400 a year. He’ll also be responsible for the building maintenance, and he has an option for a 15-year extension.
He now has plans to renovate it and create a lot of films there.
“My aim is to embody the spirit of conscious capitalism, to focus on creating jobs, stimulating commerce, and contributing to economic growth for this vibrant community,” said Jackson.
50 Cent shared the redesign of the studios on his Facebook page this morning. And he also has plans for a big even this summer he’s calling Humor & Harmony Weekend. He teased the event today saying attendees don’t want to miss “all the talent I’m bringing to town!”
