Atlanta’s Magic City strip club to receive 5-part docuseries on Starz

Atlanta’s Magic City strip club earns 5-part docuseries on Starz

Magic City, an iconic strip club in Atlanta, has captured the imaginations of locals and celebrities alike for decades. Known for its glitzy atmosphere, unforgettable performances, and mystique, the club has long been a staple in Atlanta’s nightlife. Now, the club’s fascinating history and cultural influence are being explored in a five-part docuseries titled Magic City: An American Fantasy. This highly anticipated series has been picked up by Starz and is slated to premiere later this summer.

The History of Magic City

Founded by Michael ‘Mr. Magic’ Barney, Magic City has become a legendary name in the world of strip clubs. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the club has earned its reputation as a hotspot for celebrities, music artists, and partygoers alike. What started as a regular strip club turned into a cultural phenomenon, becoming deeply intertwined with the city’s music scene and nightlife.

Over the years, Magic City has drawn in high-profile celebrities, including the likes of 2 Chainz, Nelly, Shaquille O’Neal, Quavo, Killer Mike, Big Boi, and many others. The club became known for its lavish parties, the talent of its dancers, and its intimate atmosphere that allowed people to escape reality.

The docuseries is expected to offer an exclusive and unfiltered look into the lives of those behind the club’s success, according to Deadline. From its enigmatic founder to the dancers who built its mystique, viewers will get a chance to dive deeper into the people who contributed to the club’s legendary status.

The Star-Studded Team Behind the Docuseries

The series Magic City: An American Fantasy is produced by some major names in the entertainment industry. Drake, through his DreamCrew Entertainment company, has lent his expertise to the project. Other high-profile producers include Jermaine Dupri, a respected figure in the music industry, and actress and Atlanta Hawks part owner Jami Gertz. The show is being led by showrunner Bayan Joonam, who brings his vision to the screen alongside executive producers Devin Amar and Alex Kaplan.

With this powerhouse team, it’s clear that Magic City: An American Fantasy has the backing it needs to deliver a high-quality, captivating docuseries.

A Peek Behind the Velvet Curtains

One of the most exciting elements of this docuseries is the access it provides. While many are familiar with the Magic City name, few truly know the ins and outs of what happens behind the club’s closed doors. Magic City: An American Fantasy promises to reveal the story of its founder, Michael “Mr. Magic” Barney, and how he transformed a strip club into a cultural institution.

In addition to focusing on Barney’s role in the club’s creation, the docuseries will highlight the dancers and staff who played a major part in shaping the club’s mystique. These women not only contributed to Magic City’s success but also helped create a space that has been woven into the fabric of Black culture in Atlanta.

According to producer Cole Brown, the team aimed to strike a balance when portraying the club’s nudity. “We wanted to walk a fine line with nudity, in particular — where you can’t make a documentary about a strip club and not have any nudity, it just isn’t true to form,” Brown explained. However, the team also worked to avoid sensationalism, ensuring that nudity was used appropriately to tell the story without crossing into gratuitous territory.

The Magic City Impact on Hip-Hop and Black Culture

Magic City is more than just a strip club — it’s an iconic landmark in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene. Known for being a gathering spot for artists, athletes, and celebrities, the club has been featured in numerous rap lyrics and music videos over the years. As a result, it has played a crucial role in shaping the music culture of Atlanta and beyond.

Artists such as T.I., Killer Mike, 2 Chainz, and Big Boi have all made their mark in the Magic City scene. The club has become synonymous with the hip-hop culture, with the unique energy and vibe of the venue often being referenced in songs that celebrate the city’s nightlife.

The docuseries is expected to explore how Magic City influenced the broader culture of Atlanta, especially when it comes to music. By diving into the relationships between artists, dancers, and fans, the show will provide a deep look into how the club became a central part of the city’s cultural identity.

Celebrity Appearances in the Docuseries

In addition to its behind-the-scenes look at the club and its operations, Magic City: An American Fantasy also features appearances from several famous faces. Among the celebrities featured in the docuseries are rapper Drake, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, hip-hop artists Killer Mike and T.I., as well as iconic rapper Big Boi.

These celebrities will provide insights into their personal experiences at Magic City and discuss the impact the club has had on their lives and careers. With so many high-profile figures involved, the docuseries promises to be both entertaining and insightful.

For viewers who have wondered about the lasting appeal of Magic City, the firsthand accounts from these celebrities offer a unique perspective on why the club continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of many.

A Fine Line Between Authenticity and Sensationalism

As Magic City: An American Fantasy dives into the often salacious world of strip clubs, the producers are aware of the fine line they must walk between portraying the authenticity of the club and avoiding unnecessary sensationalism. While Magic City is known for its explicit performances, the show strives to showcase the human side of the club.

As producer Cole Brown explained, the goal was to present the nudity and sensuality of the club in a way that serves the story without exploiting it. By doing so, the series will hopefully shed light on the complexities of life within the club and the broader impact it has had on Atlanta’s nightlife and culture.

What’s Next for Magic City: An American Fantasy?

The debut of Magic City: An American Fantasy at SXSW last year stirred up considerable buzz, but it wasn’t until recently that the series was picked up by Starz for distribution. With its rich history, high-profile production team, and insightful storytelling, this docuseries is poised to be one of the must-watch shows of the summer.

While the premiere date has not yet been officially announced, anticipation for the series is already building. Fans of Magic City, hip-hop culture, and behind-the-scenes documentaries will be eagerly awaiting the chance to dive into the fascinating world of one of Atlanta’s most iconic nightspots.

Magic City: An American Fantasy isn’t just a look into a strip club — it’s a glimpse into the heart of Atlanta’s nightlife, hip-hop culture, and Black history. With exclusive access to the club’s founder, its dancers, and high-profile celebrities, the docuseries promises to offer viewers a deep, engaging look at how Magic City became a cultural institution.

Whether you’re interested in the music scene, the behind-the-scenes workings of a strip club, or simply want to understand more about the cultural phenomenon that is Magic City, this docuseries is sure to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. Be sure to tune in when the series drops on Starz this summer for a captivating look at one of Atlanta’s most beloved icons.