Peacock’s ‘Fight Night’ Celebrated Black Businesses and Iconic Atlanta Culture – Essence

Peacock’s original limited series features an all-star forged, including Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle and Terrence Howard. Based on the acclaimed true crime podcast of the identical name, the series tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery on the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 homecoming fight modified not just one man’s life, but a complete city.

The series made multiple stops in Atlanta this past weekend to rejoice the premiere of the brand new limited series ahead of its September fifth premiere. The events kicked off on August twenty first on the BronzeLens Film Festival, where the primary episode screened to a rapt audience. Producer Dianne Ashford introduced the event with a video message from executive producer Will Packer, setting the tone for a weekend of pleasure and cultural celebration. The screening was a fitting start, bringing together film lovers and Atlanta’s creative community to witness the start of a series that explores such a pivotal moment in town’s timeline.

On August 23, Peacock and Complex hosted a special preview screening for college students from HBCUs, including FAMU, Spelman, Clark Atlanta and Morehouse College. Hosted by Speedy Morman, the event featured appearances from the series’ executive producers Will Packer and Shaye Ogbonna, co-executive producer Kenny Burns and actor David Banner, who plays Missouri Slim. Students received personalized “Atlanta Influences Everything” T-shirts, pizza from Slim & Husky’s and music from DJ Thrice Groove, creating an environment that combined entertainment with education. The event culminated in an intimate roundtable discussion where HBCU journalists had the chance to talk directly with the producers, providing insight into the creative process behind the series.

The following day, the platform further honored town’s heritage by partnering with eight local Black-owned businesses to supply retro prices at historic venues like Paschal’s and The Clermont Hotel. These businesses, which feature prominently within the show, received custom murals by local artists EL Chisolm and Yuzly Mathurin, adding a vibrant and artistic touch to town. Also unveiled that day was a reproduction of the 1966 Cadillac Calais from CHICKEN MAN, the automotive driven by Kevin Hart’s character on the show, built by the legendary West Coast Customs and their student academy. The iconic vehicle toured the Georgia capital, serving as a mobile tribute just days before its world premiere.

The launch activities were greater than just promotional events; they were a celebration of Atlanta’s culture, history, and the black-owned businesses which have shaped town’s identity. As the series prepares for its September fifth premiere, the thrill surrounding these events has set the stage for what guarantees to be a must-see series that not only entertains but additionally educates and honors town’s legacy that continues to affect the world.