Shreveport, September 29, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana is set to see significant growth in its entertainment sector as rapper and entrepreneur 50 Cent launches new projects. The Shreveport City Council has approved the creation of the Film and Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District to facilitate 50 Cent’s production efforts, including the rebranding of Millennium Studios to G-Unit Studios. With a focus on bolstering the local economy, 50 Cent’s investments include $2.4 million in downtown real estate. The district aims to generate jobs and support film production while addressing existing drainage issues.
Shreveport, Louisiana is witnessing a significant expansion in the entertainment sector as 50 Cent, famed rapper and entrepreneur, undertakes new projects in the city. The Shreveport City Council has approved the establishment of the Film and Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District, aimed at facilitating 50 Cent’s production endeavors.
This newly created district encompasses properties either owned or leased by 50 Cent, imposing a 2% tax on all properties within its boundaries. Importantly, this tax will not result in additional costs to local residents unless they make purchases within the district.
In early 2024, 50 Cent’s production company, G-Unit Film & Television, took over Millennium Studios on a 30-year lease from the city, for an annual rate of $2,400. This extensive facility spans 985,000 square feet and has since been rebranded as G-Unit Studios. With this change, G-Unit Studios has become the second-largest Black-owned studio in the United States, trailing only behind Tyler Perry’s studio in Atlanta.
As part of his investments, 50 Cent has allocated $2.4 million towards downtown real estate, positioning himself as one of the largest property owners in Shreveport. Despite the ambitious goals, production activities at G-Unit Studios have been hindered by flooding issues, with city officials recognizing the need to address drainage problems before filming can proceed.
One of the upcoming shows being developed at G-Unit Studios is titled “Shreveport Justice,” which aims to portray local law enforcement authentically. The Shreveport City Council’s decision to create the economic development district was supported by a unanimous 6-0 vote, believed to bolster film and television production in the area.
This district covers the Red River District and properties related to 50 Cent’s ventures. A representative from his team has indicated that construction of the entertainment district may start as early as late 2025 or early 2026. Furthermore, a dedicated 2% sales tax will fund various economic development projects within the district.
The proposed economic development district is regarded as one of the largest in Shreveport’s and the region’s history. Projects authorized under this district must either deliver film or television services or generate a minimum of 10 full-time jobs or $1 million in new capital investment. Governance of the district will fall under a nonprofit organization named the Gateway Economic Development Corporation.
Shreveport council members have highlighted the potential benefits of 50 Cent’s investments for the local economy. Despite some apprehensions over previously abandoned high-profile projects in Shreveport, city leaders are optimistic about the low risk associated with 50 Cent’s current involvement due to substantial financial backing.
Key Features of the Economic Development District
- Creation approved by Shreveport City Council.
- Covers properties owned or leased by 50 Cent.
- Imposes a 2% tax on all properties within the district.
- Includes G-Unit Studios, the second-largest Black-owned studio in the U.S.
- Constructed to foster film and TV production.
- Economic projects must create at least 10 jobs or $1 million investment.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the Film and Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District?
The district is designed to support 50 Cent’s production projects in the city.
How much is the annual lease for Millennium Studios?
50 Cent’s G-Unit Film & Television took over Millennium Studios on a 30-year lease from the city, at a rate of $2,400 per year.
What is the planned new show at G-Unit Studios?
The new show being developed at G-Unit Studios is titled “Shreveport Justice,” which aims to authentically highlight local law enforcement.
When is construction of the new entertainment district expected to begin?
Construction of the new entertainment district is expected to begin as early as late 2025 or early 2026.
How many jobs must projects under the district create?
The projects under the district must support film or TV services or create at least 10 full-time jobs or $1 million in new capital investment.
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Additional Resources
- AfroTech: 50 Cent Shreveport Ventures
- Shreveport Times: Shreveport Council Creates Economic District
- KTBS: 50 Cent Backed Downtown Entertainment District Approved
- KLFY: Shreveport City Council Approves New Economic Development District
- Complex: 50 Cent Shreveport Development Approved
- Wikipedia: 50 Cent
- Google Search: Shreveport Louisiana
- Google Scholar: 50 Cent Shreveport Economic Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- Google News: 50 Cent Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
