All roads lead to Shreveport time to work, if you owe me I’m a need my money back. 👀it’s cool today is Thursday you got time I’m a need that by Monday • https://t.co/jnbpt4Vpb3 pic.twitter.com/5dQA42hcTe
— 50cent (@50cent) March 28, 2025
After months of negotiations, Jackson’s G-Unit Films & Television Louisiana LLC secured unanimous council approval to lease the Stageworks facility. Terms include a $200/month rent agreement, 30-year initial lease with a 15-year renewal option, and full operational control for G-Unit. The deal shifts maintenance costs to Jackson’s team, freeing city resources while injecting new life into the underused venue.
From Rap Battles to MMA Matches: Inside the Venue’s Radical Makeover
Plans reveal Stageworks will morph into a multipurpose epicenter hosting:
Pro/amateur basketball and volleyball tournaments
Boxing and MMA fights
Concerts, auto shows, and corporate conventions
Year-round community programs
Jackson’s team emphasized “active use” as a priority, contrasting with past sporadic bookings.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Jackson doubled down on his commitment:
“This city feels like home now. When Councilman Alan Jackson asked, ‘What’s next?’ after Humor & Harmony, I knew we needed bigger plans. Every event here will pack the house—just wait.”
He also assured Councilman Jim Taliaferro of “nonstop action,” referencing his sold-out comedy showcase as proof of concept.
Delays, Drama, and Determination: How the Deal Survived
The lease first hit council agendas in May 2024 but faced repeated delays due to backroom negotiations. Critics questioned G-Unit’s capacity to manage the space after code violations at other Shreveport properties. However, Jackson’s open letter to the city last month—pledging to “correct issues and deliver excellence”—swayed skeptics.
This isn’t just about concerts and boxing—it’s a litmus test for star-powered urban revitalization. If 50 Cent delivers, Shreveport could become a blueprint for cities betting on celebrity-led development. Stay tuned: The first slam dunk (or knockout punch) is coming soon. 🥊🏙️