Last night, the OWN Television Network’s hit series “Queen Sugar” was trending on social media in Atlanta, and the screening party hosted by star actor Omar J. Dorsey was largely responsible. We’re down to the final two episodes of season one and Doresy, who’s from Decatur, Georgia, decided to kick off Thanksgiving Eve with a viewing party, inviting his family and industry peers. Actress Khaneisha “KJ” Smith, who had a re-occurring role ,was in town working and able to attend, as well.
The screening room at Negril Village was gracious enough to add the viewing of “Queen Sugar to” their Wednesday night agenda of indie films normally shown weekly. Khalimah Gaston is the weekly host of the industry mixer “The Screening Room,” created as a networking event for film/television/actors and a place where they can present their work and discuss ideas for advancement. One of the trailers presented that stood out was “The Last Time,” a domestic violence awareness film project. I’m so proud of my friend Reece Odom, who’s one of the film’s producers. It’s amazing to see projects like this from inception to fruition then watch the progress from there.
Joining Dorsey were other “Queen Sugar” stars—Khaneshia “KJ” Smith, who plays “Lena” and Miles Mussenden, who plays “Boogie.” So many actors, both Netflix and network actors, were in the house such as “Stills” actress Khalimah Gaston, “Luke Cage” actress Simone Missick, “Greenleaf” actor Njema Williams, “Saints & Sinners” actress Dawn HalfKenny, “Mommy Uncensored” actor Rod “Reemo” Thomas, “Underground” actor Keith Arthur Bolden, “Lucifer” actor Dorian Missick, “Notorious” actor Dennis White, Swirl Film’s executive and producer Keith Neal, actor and commercial TV star Al Thompson, media Ray Cornelius, content creator David Dorleans, and many more.
After the screening, there was a brief discussion with “Queen Sugar” stars Omar J Dorsey, KJ Smith and Miles Messendom. Moderated by Khalimah Gaston, they discussed working with the show’s creators Oprah Winfrey and Ava Duvernay, how they landed the roles and what’s next.
Check out the photo gallery and see everyone who showed up to support.
