By BOTWC Staff
Actor Anthony Mackie recently purchased 20 acres of land to build a production studio in New Orleans, Black Enterprise reports.
Mackie is a New Orleans native, getting his start as a trained actor at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. Recently, the Captain America star has shifted from in front of the camera to behind, producing such hit films as “The Banker” and “Outside the Wire.” Now, the veteran actor is taking his talents back home, closing a deal to purchase 20 acres of land in New Orleans East, with the hope of building a film and television production studio.
NOLA Mayor LaToya Cantrell has praised Mackie’s efforts, noting that developing projects in the state could be a major boost for the local economy and community. While Mackie spoke via his agent, saying the deal was too fresh to discuss details, the actor has secured land on the I-10 Service Road near the Little Woods neighborhood.
The new studio will support Louisiana’s rapidly growing film and television industry, offering opportunities for development, production, intellectual property acquisitions and marketing. Mackie isn’t the only Hollywood star to set his sights on the southern city either, New Orleans native Tyler Perry also looking to build a film studio in his hometown.
Councilman Oliver Thomas has expressed support for Mackie as well, seeing New Orleans East as a prime area to build a new branch of Hollywood.
“Years ago, we talked about us being Hollywood South. I think maybe we’re finally in a position to make it happen and for New Orleans East to be the foundation for that to happen…To have Captain America and his brand and his star power I think it helps to support all the other investments,” said Thomas.
Congratulations, Anthony! We’re excited to see how your new endeavor will develop!
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