Brandon T. Jackson Set As Lead In ‘The Family Business’ New Orleans Spinoff Series For BET+

Jan 18

BET+ is set to launch a spinoff of Carl Weber's The Family Business, taking the action to the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, and featuring Brandon T. Jackson in the lead role.

Jackson not only takes center stage as the star but also steps into the role of associate producer for the upcoming eight-episode series. Production is slated to commence in March, promising an exciting addition to the original series that concluded its fourth season in October 2022.

Drawing inspiration from Weber's best-selling crime drama book series, The Family Business revolves around the Duncan family, known for their reputable and close-knit demeanor during the day as owners of a high-end exotic car dealership in New York. However, when night falls, their business ventures take a more shadowy turn.

In this spinoff narrative, the New Orleans faction of the Duncan family finds themselves entangled in a ruthless turf war involving corrupt politicians, unscrupulous land developers, and formidable crime bosses. The battleground? The family's underground casino and night club business. In a desperate bid to retain control, they reach out to their New York relatives, seeking their unique brand of justice.

Big Shirley Duncan, the proprietor of the popular New Orleans club Midnight Blues, and her son Marquis (played by Jackson), are thrust into a fierce power struggle. This clash involves the most dangerous individuals in the city, both on the lawful and illicit sides, all driven by hidden motives to claim a stake in the Duncan family's business and land.

Fearing the loss of control over The Blues, Big Shirley sends Marquis to New York, seeking aid from her brother-in-law, crime boss L.C. Duncan. L.C. then assembles a team comprising his nephew, Bounty Hunter Curts Duncan, and his highly skilled niece, Lauryn Duncan, to provide muscle and security to the family's business.

While Jackson is confirmed for the spinoff, other castings are still in the finalization stage. There's speculation about potential returns from Ben Stephens and Nayirah Teshali, who portrayed Curtis and Lauryn in The Family Business. Notably, Ernie Hudson, who played L.C. Duncan, will not make an appearance in the offshoot.

The executive production team behind this thrilling expansion includes Carl Weber, ND Brown, and Trey Haley for Tri Destined Studios. Fans can anticipate Jackson's return to the screen alongside Abbie Cornish, Jack Huston, and Jamie Chung in the upcoming indie feature "I'm Beginning To See The Light." Jackson, recognized for his roles in major films like the Percy Jackson franchise, Fast & Furious, and Tooth Fairy, brings a wealth of talent to this exciting new venture. His past TV credits include a lead role opposite Craig Robinson in "Mr. Robinson," as well as recurring appearances on Netflix's "BoJack Horseman" and Hulu's "Deadbeat." Jackson is represented by Buchwald and Zero Gravity.