(NEWARK, NJ) -- Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced on May 9, 2025 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.

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.”

“We see Newark as a natural home for this type of infrastructure,” said J. Wayman Henry, a partner with Ms. Goldberg on this project and the former Chairman of Economic Development in West Orange. “It’s New Jersey’s largest city, centrally located in the tri-state area, and backed by visionary leadership committed to inclusive economic development. Mayor Baraka’s track record, especially in cultural growth, has given us tremendous confidence.”

The MBS Group operates more than 50 iconic studio campuses across eight countries, servicing over 600 sound stages and supporting more than 900 productions annually. Their expansive global platform spans over 10 million square feet of production real estate and includes a full suite of technical and production services.

“This is an exciting and promising opportunity for our community, said Office of Film & TV Director Desireé Hadley. “Mayor Baraka has been a visionary with sourcing creative ways to help increase housing options while continually enhancing our artistic community. This new studio development further emphasizes the endless supply of innovative initiatives our Mayor implements in our city. Whoopi Goldberg and MBS Studios couldn't have picked a better place to develop film/TV studios, joined with affordable housing. I am excited for how this development will encourage our young people to pursue careers in the industry.”

Jason Hairston, Chief Studio & Real Estate Officer for MBS, emphasized the company’s commitment to long-term community partnership.

“Through our ‘Changing Lenses’ initiative, we actively invest in training, mentorship, and job creation—particularly for historically underrepresented communities,” said Mr. Hairston. “In Newark, we’re eager to collaborate with local leaders, unions, educational institutions, and nonprofits to build a diverse and skilled local crew base.”

Negotiations are expected to yield a formal announcement in the coming months.