50 Cent shared mixed emotions about Louisiana's $150 million tax incentive for television and film productions being axed.
In April, Fif, real name Curtis Jackson, formerly launched G-Unit Studios in Shreveport as part of G-Unit Film and Television Inc. But on Tuesday (November 12), the Louisiana House of Representatives voted 87-12 for approval to end the aforementioned $150 million tax package as a means to reduce state tax to 3 percent.
According to Baton Rogue's WBRZ 2, if the decision is granted by the Senate and state governor, the tax incentive will conclude on June 30. This measure could impact the amount of productions made in Louisiana, as the state has attracted films like The Iron Claw, Nickel Boys, and Sinners, the latter two projects which release this December and March 2025, respectively.
With Louisiana being the first state to pass a film tax credit back in 2002, Fifty intentionally located G-Unit Studios in Shreveport, investing $2.3 million in local property for the city to become "a major hub for entertainment and innovation." But on Thursday (November 14), he expressed disapproval, along with hope, that the state is considering the film tax removal.
On Instagram, the Queens native shared local news segments from Shreveport's KTBS 3 and KSLA News 12. "This doesn’t feel good, but it could be great for Louisiana. Patience—let’s see how it plays out," he captioned the first post.
As a caption for the second post, he continued, "I know people in Shreveport are sick right now, stay positive everything happens for a reason. I want to thank you for supporting me with Humor Harmony having zero violent crimes for 16 days, believe it or not that made that event one of my biggest accomplishments."
The expansion of G-Unit Studios comes over 20 years after G-Unit Film & Television Inc., which produces the Power franchise and BMF, was founded in 2003.
“As someone who has always believed in the transformative power of music, film, and television, I’m beyond excited to introduce the expansion of my G-Unit Film & Television through the launch of G-Unit Studios right here in Shreveport," Fifty told Billboard.
He added, "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. 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."
