Mayor Baraka Announces City in Talks to Bring Whoopi Goldberg-Led Studio to Newark
Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced today 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 of Newark.
This ambitious project represents more than just the construction of a studio complex—it signals a transformative moment for Newark’s cultural and economic future. By bringing a global production powerhouse like MBS and a creative icon like Goldberg into the city, the proposed development stands to place Newark firmly on the map as a premier destination for film and television production on the East Coast.
According to city officials, this partnership could usher in a new era of opportunity and investment, including the creation of affordable housing units, workforce development initiatives, and community-focused programming. The initiative aligns closely with the Baraka administration’s vision for equitable economic development that centers the needs of local residents.
Mayor Baraka has long advocated for the role of arts and culture as engines of economic growth and social change. “This development with MBS expands my consistent efforts to bring Newark full circle to its early days as the world’s film capital,” the Mayor stated. “It widens the lens to encompass and enrich all aspects of city life – from employment and job training to housing.”
Baraka added that Newark has always had the necessary infrastructure, cultural vibrancy, and geographic advantage to become a major player in media production. “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.”
The proposed studio site is expected to include state-of-the-art sound stages, post-production facilities, and spaces for community engagement. The development would not only serve major productions but also support independent filmmakers and local creatives, further bolstering Newark’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.
“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.”
Henry highlighted the alignment between the city’s goals and the project’s values, noting that the initiative seeks to uplift communities that have historically been overlooked in the entertainment industry. “Mayor Baraka’s track record, especially in cultural growth, has given us tremendous confidence.”
The MBS Group is no stranger to world-class developments. With operations in more than 50 iconic studio campuses across eight countries, MBS supports more than 900 productions annually. Their global footprint includes over 10 million square feet of production real estate, making them uniquely equipped to deliver high-impact results in Newark.
Jason Hairston, Chief Studio & Real Estate Officer for MBS, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to long-term community engagement and sustainability. “Through our ‘Changing Lenses’ initiative, we actively invest in training, mentorship, and job creation—particularly for historically underrepresented communities,” Hairston said.
“In Newark, we’re eager to collaborate with local leaders, unions, educational institutions, and nonprofits to build a diverse and skilled local crew base,” Hairston added. “It’s not just about constructing buildings—it’s about constructing futures.”
Desireé Hadley, Director of the Newark Office of Film & TV, also expressed enthusiasm for the proposal. “Mayor Baraka has been a visionary with sourcing creative ways to help increase housing options while continually enhancing our artistic community,” she said. “This new studio development further emphasizes the endless supply of innovative initiatives our Mayor implements in our city.”
Hadley emphasized the opportunity the studio presents for Newark’s youth. “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.”
Local educational institutions, including colleges and vocational training centers, are expected to play a key role in the success of the project. City officials are already exploring ways to integrate media production into curricula, offer internships, and create direct pipelines to employment.
While formal agreements are still being finalized, city representatives indicate that negotiations are progressing positively. A public announcement detailing the project’s scope, timeline, and specific location is anticipated in the coming months.
If successful, this initiative could serve as a national model for how public-private partnerships can merge creativity with community investment—using the power of storytelling and production to fuel both imagination and economic revival.
