Ludacris, Big Boi, Kim Fields and more attend ATL Screening of ‘Black Panther’ [PHOTOS]

Written by | Ray Cornelius

Some of Atlanta’s biggest stars came out last night for an advanced screening of Marvel’s Black Panther. Ludacris, Big Boi, Tyrese Gibson and Kim Fields are just a few of the celebs that made their way to the Fabulous Fox Theatre to watch the film that has already made box office history prior to its February 16 opening.

In addition to the celebrities,  a number of Georgia’s political officials and business leaders were also in attendance including Senator Donzella James, State Representative “Able Mable” Thomas, Georgia Power’s Director of Corporate Relations Charmaine Ward and Derreck Kayongo, CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Once inside, thousands of fans were greeted by Marvel executives including MPAA Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin, who applauded Georgia for its support of Black Panther and for being the ideal location to shoot movies. According to DEADLINE, the film contributed to over $26.5 million in wages to more than 3,100 workers across the state of Georgia.

“Tonight, we are here to celebrate the talented individuals and vendors who help make Georgia the third largest production center in the nation, and who help bring to life stories, like Black Panther, that make a difference,” said Rivkin. “Black Panther has smashed records for advance ticket sales thanks to the hard work of local crew and vendors, and because the film reflects the breadth and diversity of our global communities.”

The highlight of the evening was an appearance by film icon and Marvel actor Samuel L. Jackson. The award winning superstar, who is in town shooting Son of Shaft, brought greetings and officially opened the film.

Other notables in attendance included Marvel VP David Grant, GA Film Academy’s Jeffrey Stepakoff, media personality Ryan Cameron, former Destiny’s Child singer and actress LeToya Luckett and her new husband Tommicus Walker,  former NBA Player Theo Ratliff, veteran actor and GoodTimes star John Amos, BronzeLens Film Festival’s Kathleen Bertrand, former reality star Monyetta Shaw, The Chi’s Jason Mitchell and Greenleaf stars Desiree Ross and Antonio J. Bell.

Check out more photos from the red carpet below:

Kathleen Bertrand 

LeToya Luckett + Tommicus Walker

Charles Rivkin

Ludacris + Eudoxie 

Tyrese Gibson 

Desiree Ross +Antonio J. Bell

Monyetta Shaw

Ryan Cameron

Jeff Stepakoff

John Amos + Charles West 

Isaac Hayes III

Derreck Kayongo

Kim Fields + Christopher Morgan 

Theo Ratliff + sons

David Grant 

Black Panther opens in theaters on Friday, February 16!

Photo Credits: RayCornelius.com + Marvel