Actor Anthony Mackie just closed a deal on Friday (March 18) in the purchase of 20 acres of land in New Orleans East. According to Nola.com, Mackie plans to use the land to develop East Studios LLC, a television and film studio.

According to the outlet, Louisiana was one of the first states to introduce a financial incentives program for filmmakers over 20 years ago. Government officials have publicly shown their support for the 42-year old New Orleans native’s efforts to purchase and develop the land. East Studios LLC will reportedly include other facets of the entertainment business including intellectual property, development, production, and marketing.

Mayor Latoya Cantrell stated via Twitter, “The New Orleans East is making a comeback, bam! New Orleans’ own Anthony Mackie is opening a HUGE 20-acre film studio! This is INCREDIBLE!! The influx of productions will not only bring economic growth but job opportunities!”

The New Orleans East is making a comeback, bam

New Orleans own Anthony Mackie is opening a HUGE 20-acre film studio!

This is INCREDIBLE !!️

Companies like Disney, Netflix, AMC, and OWN Network have spent nearly $291 million in the state of Louisiana, which includes $104 million in payroll. According to CNN, this has been consistent growth for many years.

In addition to the Mayor, Councilman Oliver Thomas is ecstatic about the rise of Mackie’s new studio.

“Years ago, we talked about us being Hollywood South. I think maybe we’re finally in a position to make it happen and for New Orleans East to be the foundation for that to happen,” Thomas stated.

This move will be similar to that of movie mogul Tyler Perry, who purchased a military base back in 2015 to create Tyler Perry Studios.