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In the latest episode of her podcast Humble Brag with co-host Crystal Kung Minkoff, former Real Housewives of Atlanta star and current “Friend of” Cynthia Bailey dropped exciting updates on the future of the long-running Bravo series.
Cynthia Bailey Confirms RHOA Season 18 Casting Underway
The revelation has fans buzzing as the show rides a wave of renewed energy in Season 17.
Quick Turnaround for Reunion
Bailey revealed that filming for the Season 17 reunion is scheduled to begin in just two weeks. This relatively quick post-filming timeline underscores Bravo’s confidence in the current season, which premiered on April 5, 2026, and has delivered plenty of drama through group trips, feuds, and fresh dynamics among the cast.
Season 17 features returning peach holders Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton, and Angela Oakley, with newcomers like K. Michelle and Pinky Cole adding to the mix. Cynthia has been actively involved as a “Friend of,” appearing in episodes and stirring up her own moments, including pool house drama and calling out group tensions.
Casting for Season 18 Already in Motion
More significantly, Cynthia confirmed that casting for Season 18 is actively progressing. Bravo is reportedly scouting new talent while evaluating returns and potential status changes for the current lineup. This early start is typical for the franchise but signals that network executives are already planning ahead amid strong viewer interest.
Fan reactions are divided. Some want the current core cast—bolstered by Porsha and Phaedra’s returns—to stay intact and “marinate” for another season, while others are calling for big names like Kenya Moore, Nene Leakes, Kandi Burruss, or Shereé Whitfield to shake things up. Speculation is rampant about full-time upgrades, demotions, or “Friend of” roles for figures like Cynthia herself.
Cynthia’s Role and PerspectiveCynthia, a veteran of the series who has returned in a supporting capacity after previous full-time runs and breaks, shared insights into the current season’s filming experiences. She discussed watching dynamics unfold (including tensions involving Pinky, Angela, Kelli, and Shamea) and positioned herself as someone “not off limits” who can both give and receive “smoke” in the group.
Her podcast appearance comes as she balances reality TV with other ventures, including modeling, acting, and personal life updates. Co-hosting Humble Brag has given her a platform to reflect candidly on Housewives life while teasing what’s next.
What This Means for RHOA Fans
The confirmation points to a potentially transitional Season 18. With the reunion filming so soon, viewers can expect fireworks that will heavily influence casting decisions. Will Bravo double down on the revitalized energy from Porsha and Phaedra’s returns, or will legacy stars make comebacks? Early casting activity suggests the network is leaving doors open.
As one of the most iconic Housewives franchises, RHOA continues to evolve. Stay tuned—reunion episodes are likely to deliver the drama needed to set the stage for whatever comes in Season 18. Peaches, get ready!
This article is based on Cynthia Bailey’s statements on the Humble Brag podcast, as shared across social media and fan accounts on June 1, 2026.
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Rumor swirling around a potential new project spotlighting the ex-husbands of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) have now been substantiated.
Peter Thomas, former husband of Cynthia Bailey and a familiar face from the long-running Bravo series, confirmed during a recent interview that he has officially signed on to Todd Tucker’s latest endeavor.
Peter Thomas Confirms Signing On to Todd Tucker’s New Reality Project Featuring Former ‘RHOA’ Husbands
The confirmation came in an exclusive conversation with Atlanta blogger and personality Michelle “ATLien” Brown.
Peter was candid about his involvement, stating he has already signed the necessary paperwork.
While he declined to reveal the full cast or extensive details, he emphasized his excitement and belief that the project “don’t make sense without him.”
Former RHOA Husbands Spinoff: What We Know About the Project
Todd Tucker, a producer and husband to RHOA star Kandi Burruss, has reportedly been developing a series centered on the men who were once married to Atlanta’s housewives. Speculation has included names like Apollo Nida, Bob Whitfield, Ralph Pittman, Mike Hill, and even Marc Daly. Peter noted that he couldn’t confirm who else has committed but affirmed his own participation.
According to Peter, the show is not designed as a messy tell-all aimed at dragging the women. Instead, it aims to give the men a platform to discuss how their time on RHOA impacted their lives — for better or worse — and to share their perspectives. Many of the husbands, he argued, have never truly had the chance to tell their side of the story.
Peter also touched on broader issues with how reality TV, particularly RHOA, has portrayed the men, especially Black men, often painting them in a negative light as “deadbeats” or recipients of handouts. He suggested that production sometimes sets participants up for public struggles to boost ratings.
Todd Tucker’s Expanding Empire
This project aligns with Todd Tucker’s broader ambitions. Reports indicate he is also launching his own streaming network, with multiple new shows in development. Peter praised Todd and Kandi as smart, hardworking entrepreneurs who excel at turning opportunities into revenue streams.19
In addition to the Tucker project, Peter revealed he is involved in another reality series with former Real Housewives of New Jersey husband Joe Giudice. That show, reportedly titled A Shift, focuses on themes of redemption, accountability, mental health, and rebuilding after public setbacks.2
Former ‘RHOA’ Husbands Spinoff: Fan Reactions
The news has generated significant buzz in RHOA fan communities, with many speculating about potential cast members and whether the series will air on Tucker’s streaming platform or elsewhere. Some view it as a chance for the men to reclaim their narratives, while others see it as another spin-off in the ever-expanding Housewives universe.0
As of now, no official release date or network details have been announced. However, with Peter Thomas locked in and Todd Tucker at the helm, this project is already shaping up to be one of the more intriguing developments for RHOA fans in 2026.
Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge — the ex-husbands of Atlanta may soon be stepping back into the spotlight. #RHOA
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ATLANTA — Production has officially wrapped on Netflix’s highly anticipated sequel to the beloved 1980s sitcom A Different World, with filming taking place in Atlanta.
The new series returns to the fictional historically Black college (HBCU) Hillman College, following the lives and adventures of a fresh generation of students navigating campus life in the 21st century.
Filming Ends for A Different World in Atlanta
Like the original show, it will explore themes of friendship, growth, and the unique experiences of college at an HBCU.
The story centers on Deborah, the rebellious daughter of original characters Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne.
She is portrayed by Hell’s Kitchen alum Maleah Joi Moon, while Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison reprise their iconic roles as her parents. The 10-episode comedy series follows Deborah and her friends as they face new challenges on a modern college campus.
Debbie Allen, who directed 83 episodes of the original series and served as its primary director from 1989 to 1993, returns as both a director and executive producer.
Filming signs for “Hillman College” appeared around Clark Atlanta University last July, sparking excitement on the real HBCU campus. Clark Atlanta University President George T. French Jr. shared his enthusiasm at the time, noting how meaningful it was to see the iconic signs on campus.
“I was ecstatic because I was raised during that period, getting ready to go to college,” French said. “To now be on the campus of Clark Atlanta University and to see these Hillman signs, it’s beautiful.”
The original A Different World, which aired from 1987 to 1993, is credited with helping boost HBCU enrollment by 26% during its run. French expressed hope that the new series will continue to inspire young people to consider HBCUs.
“We are growing, busting at the seams, and it really all goes back to intentional efforts like ‘A Different World,’” he said.
Local fans and alumni echoed the sentiment. One Clark Atlanta University graduate described the original show as groundbreaking for showing Black students pursuing careers in engineering, medicine, and the arts.
“It’s still relevant, and it’s going to be relevant forever,” she said.
Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Film and Entertainment Director Cardellia Hunter also credited the series with influencing her own path: “I grew up on ‘A Different World,’ which prompted me to go to Grambling State University, a HBCU.”
Netflix has not yet announced a release date for the sequel series. Additional cast members, including Cliff “Method Man” Smith, have joined the project as production concluded.
This reboot arrives more than three decades after the original series ended, bringing nostalgia for longtime fans while introducing Hillman College to a new audience.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
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Atlanta’s Real Housewives of Atlanta scene just got a fresh dose of uncharted territory—and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Porsha Williams, the beloved (and often controversial) RHOA star, has officially introduced her new girlfriend, Patrice “Sway” McKinney, to the world—and to the peach-holding cast—in the early episodes of Season 17.
Porsha Williams & Patrice ‘Sway’ McKinney on RHOA Season 17: Atlanta’s Reality TV Power Couple Takes Center Stage
The hard launch came in November 2025 when Porsha posted a series of intimate birthday photos of the couple in front of a towering Christmas tree, captioning it with love and celebration.
Since then, the pair has been inseparable: from a romantic Los Cabos New Year’s getaway (quickly dubbed “Swaycation” by fans) to a steamy Bali trip that had Bravolebrities like Kandi Burruss dropping fire emojis in the comments.
Who Is Patrice ‘Sway’ McKinney? Atlanta Entrepreneur and Salon Suite Queen
Patrice “Sway” McKinney—known professionally as Sway The Pro—is far from a reality TV newcomer. The Michigan native moved to Atlanta in 2008 chasing bigger opportunities.
A licensed master barber-stylist, she founded Encore Salon Suites, one of the first Black-owned salon suite franchises in the city.
With multiple locations across Atlanta (including West Midtown and Marietta) and a booming coaching business, Sway mentors aspiring beauty entrepreneurs on how to launch and scale profitable salon suite businesses.
She’s also a real estate developer and motivational speaker who turned down a pro basketball path to build her empire.
The couple actually met eight years ago but “circled the block” and reconnected in 2025 after Porsha finalized her divorce from Simon Guobadia in June.
In October, Porsha revealed on BravoCon she was dating both a man and a woman. By November, she chose Sway—and made it crystal clear on Instagram.
RHOA Season 17 Preview: ‘This Is My Lady Friend, Sway’
In the Season 17 preview for Episode 2 (which dropped earlier this month), Porsha brings Sway to a group event, casually introducing her as “my lady friend.”
The cast’s reactions are priceless—surprise, side-eyes, and a few supportive nods. In confessional, Porsha declares, “I am what you call dating. I am in uncharted waters. You can just call me Christopher Columbus.”
Porsha has been refreshingly open about her journey. On a recent Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, she gushed that Sway “lets me be me. We celebrate each other. We support each other. It’s just great.”
She’s also pushed back on labels, famously coining the playful term “Sway-sexual” while telling fans she’s “Porsha-sexual” first—exploring without pressure. “At this moment, I don’t mind if you want to call me a lesbian… I’m not offended by it at all,” she shared in a recent interview.
Engagement rumors (sparked by an obvious AI photo) were quickly shut down by both women in February 2026. They’re taking things at their own pace—and thriving.
Why This Storyline Matters for Atlanta Reality TV
Porsha Williams has always been a lightning rod on RHOA—fierce, funny, and unafraid to evolve in the public eye.
Her relationship with Sway brings a new layer of authenticity to the Atlanta franchise, which has long celebrated Black excellence, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Sway’s success as a self-made Atlanta businesswoman adds even more local flavor to the mix.
Fans are eating it up. Social media is flooded with support (and the usual shade), with many praising Porsha for living her truth post-divorce.
As Season 17 continues to unfold, expect more date nights, cast dinners, and plenty of “Porsha is fluid” commentary from the ladies.
Porsha and Sway are proof that Atlanta’s reality TV scene isn’t just about drama—it’s about real evolution, real love, and real empire-building. Stay tuned to Bravo for the full peach-holding tea.
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Atlanta’s film industry is buzzing once again as production on Zatima Season 5 gets underway at Tyler Perry Studios.
The popular BET+ comedy-drama spin-off from Tyler Perry’s Sistas is set to film its highly anticipated new season right here in the heart of Georgia, continuing the city’s reputation as a premier hub for television production.
Zatima Season 5: Tyler Perry’s Hit BET+ Series Returns to Tyler Perry Studios with Star Cast
Fans of Zatima have been eagerly awaiting news about the upcoming season. Following the drama-filled Season 4 that premiered on BET+ in September 2025, the series is heading back to Atlanta for Season 5 filming, with cameras expected to roll starting this month at Tyler Perry Studios.
This marks yet another major win for local crews, extras, and the booming entertainment economy in metro Atlanta.
What to Expect from Zatima Season 5
Zatima, created, written, and directed by Tyler Perry, follows the turbulent relationship of Zac Taylor (Devale Ellis) and Fatima Wilson (Crystal Renee Hayslett).
The show blends heartfelt comedy with real-life relationship drama, family dynamics, and career struggles – all hallmarks of Perry’s signature storytelling. While plot details for Season 5 remain under wraps, viewers can expect more of the ups, downs, and surprising twists that have made Zatima a BET+ standout since its 2022 premiere.
en.wikipedia.orgThe series has built a massive following for its authentic portrayal of modern love, friendship, and personal growth, drawing loyal audiences who tune in weekly on BET+.
Where Zatima Is Filmed: Atlanta’s Tyler Perry Studios
As with previous seasons, Zatima Season 5 will be filmed entirely in Atlanta at Tyler Perry Studios – one of the largest production facilities in the country.
Atlanta casting call: Zatima is hiring for upcoming roles
The sprawling complex in southwest Atlanta has become synonymous with Perry’s empire, hosting hits like Sistas, The Oval, and now multiple seasons of Zatima. Local casting calls for extras have already circulated, giving Atlanta residents another chance to appear in the background of the hit show.
Georgia’s generous tax incentives and top-tier crew talent continue to attract projects like this, solidifying Atlanta’s spot as the “Hollywood of the South.”
Zatima Cast Members Returning for Season 5
The core Zatima cast is expected to return, bringing their undeniable chemistry back to screens:
- Devale Ellis as Zac Taylor – The charming yet flawed leading man navigating love and fatherhood.
- Crystal Renee Hayslett as Fatima Wilson – The strong, independent powerhouse at the center of every fan’s favorite couple.
- Nzinga Imani as Angela – Zac’s ex and a source of ongoing tension.
- Remington Hoffman as Bryce – Zac’s loyal friend and comic relief.
- Guyviaud Joseph as Tony – Part of the tight-knit circle adding depth to the group dynamics.
- Cameron Fuller as Nathan, Jasmin Brown as Deja, Ameer Baraka as Jeremiah, and Laila Odom round out the recurring ensemble that fans have grown to love. tvguide.com
No major new cast additions have been announced yet for Season 5, but Tyler Perry Productions often keeps surprises coming – stay tuned for updates.
Why Atlanta Fans Can’t Wait for Zatima Season 5 on BET+
With filming now underway in Atlanta, Zatima Season 5 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of the year for BET+ subscribers.
The show’s success has not only boosted viewership but also put a spotlight on Atlanta’s diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera. Tyler Perry Studios continues to create opportunities that keep Georgia at the forefront of the entertainment world.
Keep checking back with us here at Atlanta Local News for the latest on Zatima Season 5 production updates, potential release windows on BET+, and any red-carpet events tied to Tyler Perry’s hit series.
Atlanta, your favorite couple Zac and Fatima are coming home – and the drama is just getting started!
Want more Tyler Perry news? Read our Tyler Perry casting guide for Atlanta roles.
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Jasmine Jones of Duluth says her favorite TV show is Beauty in Black.
”It’s actually an elegant look at black power,” the Saginaw native says, “but it’s got some hood in it.”
That hood sensibility has taken the popular Atlanta-filmed series to #1.
Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black has emerged as one of the most dominant series on Netflix, frequently claiming the top spot on both U.S. and global charts across multiple release windows for its seasons and parts.
On social media, Perry shared a graphic that shows the show rankings across streaming platforms from March 20-26.
The drama, created, written, and directed by Perry, follows two women from vastly different worlds whose lives collide amid the glitz, scandals, and underbelly of Atlanta’s beauty industry and criminal elements.
Plot and Style
The story centers on Kimmie (Taylor Polidore Williams), a young woman forced into stripping and entangled with dangerous figures after her mother kicks her out, and Mallory (Crystle Stewart), who runs a successful cosmetics company while navigating a dysfunctional wealthy family, a loveless marriage, and darker secrets involving trafficking and betrayal.
Read: Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black will return for season 3.
The series blends high-stakes drama, soap-opera twists, murder, blackmail, kidnapping, and steamy elements into bingeable episodes that end on cliffhangers designed to keep viewers hitting “next episode.”
Photo credit: Tyler Perry Perry described wanting to “have some fun” with the project, resulting in glossy production values, heightened emotions, and serialized storytelling that prioritizes entertainment over subtlety.
Massive Viewership Numbers
The numbers speak for themselves. Season 1 debuted strongly and quickly climbed Netflix’s TV charts. It started at No. 4 with 5.6 million views in its first few days but surged to No. 1 in its first full week with 8.7 million views—a 55% jump.
It spent weeks in the global Top 10 and hit No. 1 in dozens of countries.
Nielsen data later showed it dethroning hits like Wednesday, logging 1.35 billion minutes of viewing in a single week (Sept. 15-21, 2025), making it the most-streamed TV show across U.S. household televisions that period. It outperformed new releases and established competitors, with strong repeat viewership.
Season 2 followed a similar pattern, released in two parts (with Part 2 dropping in March 2026).
The latest batch propelled it back to No. 1 on Netflix’s U.S. charts, surpassing major titles and holding strong in the global Top 5 despite fresh competition. Audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes improved notably for Season 2, reflecting growing fan investment.
Why It Resonates So Strongly
Several factors explain why Beauty in Black consistently outperforms expectations and tops charts:
- Tyler Perry’s Proven Brand: Perry has built a massive, loyal audience through decades of films, plays, and TV shows (Sistas, The Oval, Madea franchise) that deliver emotionally direct, crowd-pleasing stories. His name acts as a powerful draw—fans know exactly what they’re getting and show up in force. Netflix’s partnership has expanded his reach to a broader, international audience.
- Binge-Friendly Soap Structure: In an era of prestige dramas, Beauty in Black leans into classic serialized soap elements: big betrayals, glamorous settings, rapid plot twists, family secrets, and romantic entanglements. Episodes are structured for maximum momentum, making it ideal for weekend binges or background viewing that quickly becomes appointment television. Viewers frequently cite the addictive cliffhangers and heightened emotional scenes as reasons they can’t stop watching.17
- Relatable Themes with Escapist Glamour: The show explores ambition, class divides, loyalty, power, greed, and survival in the beauty industry. These themes feel grounded enough to connect—especially for audiences familiar with Perry’s style—while the glossy Atlanta setting, fashion, and drama provide pure escapism. It mixes crime-thriller tension with personal stakes in a way that feels both aspirational and juicy.
- Diverse and Expanding Audience: Early viewership skewed heavily toward Black audiences (around 52% in some weeks), but it has grown significantly among Hispanic viewers and others. Its global performance, topping charts in countries across the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, shows broad crossover appeal. Perry’s storytelling often fills a gap for underrepresented dramatic narratives that prioritize emotional payoff and entertainment.
- Word-of-Mouth and Cultural Momentum: Despite mixed or lukewarm critic scores (with some calling it “forgettable” or noting its reliance on tropes), audience engagement drives success. Social media buzz, fan discussions about twists, and Perry’s direct connection with viewers amplify visibility. The show’s unapologetic style—sometimes criticized for excess—delivers exactly what its core fans crave.
- Strategic Release and Accessibility: Splitting seasons into parts builds anticipation and sustains momentum. As a Netflix original, it benefits from the platform’s algorithm pushing proven performers and easy global availability.
A Streaming Phenomenon
Beauty in Black stands out because it proves that high-production, emotionally charged, twist-driven dramas still dominate streaming when executed with a clear vision and dedicated fanbase.
Tyler Perry has once again demonstrated his unmatched ability to understand what audiences want: stories that entertain, provoke conversation, and deliver satisfaction without pretense.
Whether it’s the scandalous beauty empire intrigue, the rags-to-riches (and back) arcs, or simply the sheer bingeability, the series has earned its place as a chart-topper time and again. In a crowded streaming landscape, Beauty in Black reminds us that compelling characters, relentless drama, and a creator who knows his audience can still reign supreme. If the current momentum holds, expect even more records—and likely more seasons—ahead.
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right NowWant to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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The long-running reality TV series Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (LHHATL) appears to be facing the end of its run, with widespread rumors in March 2026 indicating cancellation after 13 seasons.
As of March 21, 2026, no official announcement from MTV (the current network airing the show) or parent company Paramount Global has confirmed the series is definitively canceled.
The End Of LHHATL: What’s Tea?
However, speculation has intensified across social media, entertainment blogs, and cast-adjacent commentary over the past week, pointing to low ratings, the broader decline of the Love & Hip Hop franchise, and behind-the-scenes whispers as key factors.
A Legacy of Drama Since 2012
Launched in June 2012 on VH1, Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta quickly outshone the original New York edition to become the flagship title in the franchise.
Set in the heart of the Southern hip-hop scene, the show blended music industry storylines with personal relationships, family conflicts, business ventures, and—most memorably—explosive confrontations.
Iconic cast members like Joseline Hernandez, Stevie J, Mimi Faust, Scrappy, Erica Mena, Karlie Redd, Rasheeda, Kirk Frost, and Mama Dee delivered viral moments that dominated social media for years.
Storylines involving paternity tests, physical altercations, music collaborations gone wrong, and redemption arcs kept viewers hooked, helping cement Atlanta as a dominant force in unscripted television during the 2010s.
The series moved to MTV in later seasons (around the early 2020s), but maintained its signature chaotic energy.
Read more: LHHATL star Karlie Redd charged with burglary
Season 13 premiered in 2025–2026, with the first half airing previously and the second half kicking off in February 2026 with promos promising “new energy, emotional conversations, and truths coming to the surface.”Episodes were still scheduled weekly on Tuesdays at 8/7c as recently as mid-February 2026.
Why Cancellation Rumors Are Swirling Now
Multiple sources in mid-to-late March 2026 reported that LHHATL would not return for a Season 14:
- Entertainment gossip pages and Instagram accounts described it as “#EndOfAnEra,” noting it would mark the last active city-based edition of the franchise to fall.
- AllHipHop.com published an article (updated March 18, 2026) stating that “rumors are swirling” and sources suggest the show is “quietly heading toward the exit” after 13 seasons of fights, reconciliations, and viral moments.
- Cast member Mama Dee (a longtime staple) reportedly indicated in interviews or social content that the show is “most likely cancelled,” with some fans interpreting her comments as near-confirmation.
- YouTube recaps and commentary videos discussed low ratings as a primary driver, especially after Love & Hip Hop: Miami wrapped its final season on BET, leaving Atlanta as the lone survivor.
- Social posts emphasized that—if true—this would be the first time in 15 years the Love & Hip Hop brand has no active series on air.
Counterpoints exist: some fan fact-check posts and group discussions insist there has been no official cancellation from the network, and Season 13 was still unfolding or recently airing its back half.
The absence of a formal statement from MTV leaves room for renewal, a retool, or a quiet move to another platform/streaming service.
The Bigger Picture: The Decline of the Franchise
The Love & Hip Hop empire has shrunk significantly over the past decade:
- Spinoffs in New York, Hollywood, Miami, and others have ended or concluded final seasons.
- Producer changes, network shifts (from VH1 to MTV/BET), audience fatigue with repetitive drama, and competition from newer reality formats have eroded viewership.
- By 2026, Atlanta remained the last major holdout, but declining ratings reportedly made continued investment difficult.
Fans are divided. Some celebrate the potential end, calling the show “long overdue” for retirement and criticizing recent seasons for lacking the spark of earlier years.
Others lament the loss of a cultural touchstone that spotlighted Atlanta’s music scene, gave platforms to women in hip-hop and entertainment, and created countless meme-worthy moments.
What Comes Next?
If the rumors solidify into an official cancellation, Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta will close with 13 seasons—one of the longest runs in modern reality TV history.
Cast members may pivot to solo projects, podcasts, OnlyFans content, music releases, or other reality appearances.
The franchise could potentially be revived in a rebooted format years later, as many long-running shows have done.
For now, the status remains in rumor territory—but the conversation around its possible end reflects both nostalgia for its peak and acknowledgment that the era of sprawling, multi-city Love & Hip Hop drama may finally be drawing to a close after more than a decade of chaos, hits, and unforgettable Atlanta nights.
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Georgia’s film industry is at a crossroads, but the ights are back on, cameras are rolling, and the Peach State’s film and television sector is proving once again why it’s one of America’s premier production powerhouses.
As we head deeper into 2026, the Peach State is experiencing a clear rebound after a challenging post-strike slowdown, with 33 active productions currently filming across the state—the highest number in nearly two years.
Georgia’s Film Industry Rebounds Strong in 2026
According to the Georgia Film Office, direct production spending hit a record $4.4 billion in fiscal year 2022 with 412 projects on the books. But the industry faced a sharp reset in the years that followed.
How big is Georgia’s film industry?
Spending dropped to $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2025, with productions falling to 245, as Hollywood grappled with the lingering effects of the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes, studio cost-cutting, and a broader shift in the streaming landscape.
A big part of that dip? Some major players headed overseas.
Marvel Studios wrapped its final Georgia shoot with 2025’s Thunderbolts and relocated big-budget superhero productions to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, where labor and overall costs run significantly lower.
Other streamers followed suit for select projects, chasing cheaper international incentives and production savings amid a leaner content slate. Industry insiders noted the move was less about Georgia’s shortcomings and more about global economics—studios simply hunting for the best deal in a tighter market.
Yet even with those high-profile departures, Georgia isn’t just holding its ground—it’s gaining momentum.
Georgia Film Office Director Lee Thomas put it plainly this week: “We are busier now than we have been in some time. 2026 is much better than 2025 was.”
Thomas and other leaders recently briefed state lawmakers on the upswing, highlighting how Georgia’s combination of competitive tax incentives (up to 30% transferable credits with no cap), world-class crews, diverse filming locations, and massive studio infrastructure continues to make the state an “easy button” for producers.
“Georgia’s the easy button,” echoed Rep. Kasey Carpenter. “You pick up the phone, somebody is on the other line. We’re willing to roll up our sleeves and get you to production.”
That attitude is paying off. Recent and upcoming shoots include Tulsa King (filmed recently in Savannah), Judd Apatow and Glen Powell’s Comeback King (set for Savannah this spring), and a steady stream of episodic TV like Sistas, Love is Blind, and Family Feud. Tyler Perry Studios, Trilith, Assembly Atlanta, and new facilities keep expanding, while Savannah’s local rebates add extra appeal for coastal and historic shoots.
Nationally, Georgia remains a top-tier U.S. production hub.
Is Georgia Still #1 in the Film Industry?
While some 2026 rankings place California and New York at the very top thanks to their own beefed-up incentives, Georgia consistently ranks among the elite for overall output, stage space (second-largest in the nation), and long-term stability.
Business Facilities Magazine has called it No. 1 for film production in recent reports, and local leaders point out that the state’s experienced workforce and business-friendly environment give it an edge few others can match.“
Georgia remains one of the most competitive places in the world for film and television production,” Thomas emphasized.
The state’s appeal stretches far beyond Atlanta—crews are lighting up everything from Atlanta’s urban backdrops and rural farmlands to Savannah’s historic streets and coastal vistas.
What’s Ahead for Georgia’s Film Industry
Looking ahead, optimism is high.
Several Georgia-filmed projects are slated for 2026 releases, including Netflix originals and theatrical features, and industry veterans say the pipeline of episodic and mid-budget work provides more consistent jobs than the boom-and-bust of tentpole blockbusters ever did.
Yes, Georgia lost some flashy productions to Europe’s cost advantages. But the numbers, the crews, and the infrastructure tell a different story: The Peach State isn’t fading—it’s evolving into an even stronger, more resilient force in American filmmaking.
The cameras keep rolling in Georgia. And from Atlanta to Savannah and beyond, the industry that helped put our state on the global entertainment map is writing its next act—stronger, smarter, and still very much center stage.
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Atlanta, GA – February 19, 2026 – Local filmmaking powerhouse Tyler Perry is keeping fans on the edge of their seats with the upcoming release of Beauty in Black Season 2, Part 2.
When Is Beauty in Black Part 2 Being Released?
The highly anticipated continuation of the hit Netflix drama series premieres March 19, 2026, with all eight episodes dropping at once exclusively on the streaming platform.
Created, written, and directed by Perry through his Tyler Perry Studios, Beauty in Black has quickly become a fan favorite since its debut, blending intense family drama, corporate intrigue, and dark secrets within the world of a glamorous cosmetics empire and an underground trafficking ring.
The series follows exotic dancer Kimmie (played by Taylor Polidore Williams) as her life intertwines with the ruthless, backstabbing Bellarie family behind the beauty brand.
Season 2, Part 1 left viewers reeling from shocking twists, including power shifts within the Bellarie dynasty and escalating threats.
Now, the official trailer teases an explosive showdown between Kimmie and Mallory (Crystle Stewart), with the logline promising: “The ruthless, backstabbing family behind a beauty brand — and an underground trafficking ring — will face a reckoning.”
New boss. New rules. Trust no one.
The Bellarie family matriarch settles into her role as chief operating officer, while characters like Jules (Charles Malik Whitfield) desperately search for answers about his son’s coma, and Olivia (Debbi Morgan) confronts a dangerous new enemy. The stakes are higher than ever as betrayals, unlikely alliances, and intense confrontations unfold.
Netflix recently confirmed that Beauty in Black will conclude with Season 3, making this second half of Season 2 a pivotal chapter in the story’s arc.
Atlanta audiences have long embraced Perry’s storytelling, from his blockbuster films to series like Sistas and The Oval, many of which film right here in the city at his massive Tyler Perry Studios. Beauty in Black continues that tradition of bold, unapologetic drama that resonates with viewers across the country.
Mark your calendars: Stream Beauty in Black Season 2, Part 2 starting March 19 — only on Netflix. Part 1 is currently available for those needing a refresher before the big return.
What are you most excited to see in the new episodes? Sound off in the comments below!
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Atlanta’s bustling film industry is heating up again with a fresh casting call from CAB Castings, LLC., a local company specializing in background talent for TV productions. They’re currently seeking paid female extras to appear in an upcoming series shooting right here in the city.
This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in getting on-set experience, earning some extra cash, and being part of a professional production—all while contributing to the vibrant entertainment scene that has made Atlanta a major hub for television filming.
Specific Roles Open for Casting
The casting team is looking to fill two distinct background roles:
- Groupies / Wives / Girlfriends
- Open to all ethnicities
- Ages 18–50
- Pay rate: $100 for 8 hours per day (overtime after 8 hours)
- Filming dates: Tuesday, March 10 through Friday, March 13, 2026
- Important note: Selected extras must be available to work all four days for continuity in the scenes.
- Homeless People
- Open to all ethnicities
- Ages 18–60
- Pay rate: $100 for 8 hours per day (overtime after 8 hours)
- Filming date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 (single day)
Production emphasizes that booked extras should prepare for 8- to 12-hour workdays, as set times can vary. Full availability for your chosen date(s) is required.Compensation and Payment Details
- Base pay: $100 for the first 8 hours
- Overtime kicks in after 8 hours
- Payment method: Check mailed 2–3 weeks after filming
This non-union gig offers straightforward compensation typical for background work in the Atlanta market.How to Submit and What to IncludeIf you’re available and interested, email your submission to: tvbg@cabcastings.com (mailto:tvbg@cabcastings.com)Use the appropriate subject line to ensure your email is routed correctly:
- For the multi-day role: WOMAN 4 DAY
- For the single-day role: HOMELESS 3/10
Your email must include all of the following information (submissions missing details risk being discarded):
- Full name
- Phone number
- Age
- Height
- Ethnicity
- Car details (color, year, make, and model—if you have one available)
- Two recent photos: 1 headshot and 1 full-body shot
A representative from CAB Castings will contact you via phone or email if you’re selected to confirm your booking and scene details.This call highlights the ongoing demand for diverse background talent in Atlanta’s TV productions. Whether you’re portraying a supportive partner in a lively scene or adding realism to an urban environment, these roles offer a paid way to step behind the camera.
Final Word
If this matches your availability and look, don’t delay—submit soon, as these spots can fill quickly in the competitive Atlanta casting landscape!
For more updates on local opportunities, keep an eye on casting sites and CAB Castings’ channels. Good luck to all who apply.
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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- Groupies / Wives / Girlfriends
