Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced today that the City of Newark is in active discussions with The MBS Group, the world’s largest studio services and production infrastructure company, and its high-profile partner Whoopi Inc., led by legendary entertainer and producer Whoopi Goldberg, to establish a major studio presence in the City of Newark.
The proposed development marks a significant opportunity to position Newark as a premiere East Coast hub for television and film production—an investment poised to generate affordable housing, new jobs, local training programs, and economic revitalization through the arts and entertainment sectors. Mayor Baraka, whose administration has prioritized cultural revitalization and equitable development, sees this opportunity as a bold step forward.
“This development with MBS expands my consistent efforts to bring Newark full circle to its early days as the world’s film capital,” said Mayor Baraka. “It widens the lens to encompass and enrich all aspects of city life –from employment and job training to housing. We’ve always known Newark provides every element needed in large scale production, and this is our chance to showcase the full spectrum of locations and talent to seal Newark as the premier entertainment industry capital.”…