Bahamas News
U.S. & Local TV Production Features Bahamian Culture & Talent
NASSAU, BAHAMAS (August 1, 2023) – The producers of the Bounce TV network original series, “Johnson,” A Bird and A Bear Entertainment (Eric C. Rhone and Cedric the Entertainer’s production company) and Midnight Train Productions (Deji LaRay and Thomas Q. Jones’ production company) and the stars of the hit show, arrived in The Bahamas in June for the taping of two episodes for an upcoming season of the popular American drama. “Johnson” is described as an ‘industry rarity’ for its originality and instant audience connection.
Credited as a show highlighting black males in a positive light, fans will see the scenic beauty of land and sea and witness the culture of The Bahamas in both episodes. “Johnson” creator, executive producer, writer, director, and lead actor, Deji LaRay, said The Bahamas ranked first of possible locations and it was important for Bahamians to be involved to secure Bahamian authenticity.
The episodes were filmed in Nassau at the Sandyport Beach Resort, Trip Advisor 2023 Traveler’s Choice award winner, for the sixth time, and the family-themed Atlantis Paradise Island.
Conchboy Films owner, Lavado Stubbs, was hired as the local director and co-producer for the two episodes filmed outside of the United States for the first time. He also headed the pre-shoot search to select the location spots.
Stubbs said that once he got the scripts, he immediately knew the locations had to ensure The Bahamas was a character in the show and not just any island destination backdrop.
“The Bahamian beauty and local feel of Sandyport Beach Resort made it an obvious choice. It has been here for years and is very Bahamian,” said Stubbs. “It further added to the portrayal of The Bahamas as a character in the show as every aspect of the resort contributed to the cultural element of the series.” The award-winning resort also housed the international actors and film crew during the week-long shoot.
“We knew we wanted to go to a beautiful country and island,” said “Johnson” star LaRay. “The Bahamas’ beaches are the best in the world and the people are incredibly inviting and supportive. Bahamian director Lavado Stubbs brought a unique perspective and ensured that the episodes captured the authenticity of the Bahamian culture.”
“Johnson” Executive Producer Reesha L. Archibald echoed LaRay, noting that the show was looking to elevate the series beyond just location, so the inclusion of Bahamian culture and typical events was key.
“The Bahamian production team members and actors, Chantel O’Brian and young artist, BahaMian Trae and the many extras all contributed to the success of that goal. And we decided that it would be smart and send a big ‘thank you’ to Nassau to include Lavado as a director because of his expertise, local knowledge and his film production company. “It has been phenomenal and definitely worth the months of planning; it was also surprising and wonderful to learn that our show has Bahamian fans.”
Conchboy Films owner, Lavado Stubbs shared that the shoot was enlightening for him. “What was amazing to me was the “Johnson” team wanted these episodes to be authentically Bahamian, meaning The Bahamas wasn’t just the
backdrop, as is usually the case, but a major part of the storyline. As a Bahamian director, I’ve learned that’s rare with a visiting film crew. It has made me realize that any other projects that come here could see that local production talent is the right way to go.”
Sandyport Beach Resort’s Reservations Manager, Leeanne Clarke said it had been a great experience working with the “Johnson” production team and is thankful that the Film Commission in the Ministry of Tourism and Conchboy Films reached out to the resort with the opportunity.
Clarence Rolle, the Film Commissioner at Bahamas Film Commission said that overall, the decision to film in The Bahamas and involve Bahamian talent in the “Johnson” series demonstrates a commitment to authenticity, cultural appreciation, and the elevation of the show. It’s a positive development for both the Bahamian entertainment industry and the visibility of the country on an international platform.” The Bahamas Film Commission is a national agency with a remit to maximize and support the production of international feature film and television in The Bahamas promoting the region through the development of film, video, and multimedia production.
“Johnson” returns for a new season on Bounce TV Saturday nights at 8 p.m. ET starting August 5, 2023, with two new back-to-back episodes. Bounce (@bouncetv) features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off network series, specials and events designed for African American audiences. Viewers can catch up on “Johnson” and all Bounce originals anytime on Brown Sugar, Bounce’s subscription video-on-demand service. Visit www.BrownSugar.com for more information.
Photo Caption:
Header: Bounce TV network series “Johnson” filmed two episodes in Nassau for an upcoming season in the popular drama. USA production team and local Conchboy Films production team are pictured at Sandyport Beach Resort during the week-long shoot. L to R: Executive Producer, Reesha L. Archibald; Bahamian Actress, Chantel O’Brian; “Johnson” creator, writer and lead actor, Deji LaRay; Sandyport Beach Resort’s Reservations Manager, Leeanne Clarke; and General Manager Cheralda Arnett; Conchboy Films Production Assistant, Keanna Rigby and Conchboy Films owner, Lavado Stubbs.
1st insert: “Johnson” creator, writer and lead actor, Deji LaRay; and Sandyport Beach Resort’s Reservations Manager, Leeanne Clarke are interviewed for a promotional video for the Bounce TV hit show “Johnson.”
2nd insert: Conchboy Films owner, and Director of 2 episodes of Bounce TV hit show, “Johnson” filmed on location at Sandyport Beach Resort takes a break with Bahamian production team member and actor, Chantel O’Brian.
Photos and words: Ashley@serenawilliams-pr.com
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
