October 12th 2023.
Mona Scott-Young, media mogul and creator of the hit reality TV franchise Love and Hip Hop, is back in the film world with her newly produced BET+ original film, Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy.
Starring Taye Diggs, Apryl Jones, and familiar faces from her Love and Hip Hop franchise, the two-part film follows the real-life murder investigation of Lance Herndon, a successful Atlanta businessman who revolutionized the city’s 911 system and was known for his womanizing ways. He was found murdered in his own home, and the movie follows the investigation to uncover the truths and suspicions behind his professional and personal life.
The movie was made under Scott-Young's production company, Monami Entertainment. She saw the script as a "passion thriller" that follows a wild love tryst while also highlighting the gains of a Black tech entrepreneur.
"This was a story that checked a bunch of boxes," Scott-Young told BLACK ENTERPRISE. "This guy was this man whose money made him sexy to a lot of women and he was out there doing his thing. I think when you look at the circumstances surrounding his life and his death, it just made for a compelling story."
The cast includes Keesha Sharp, Ciera Payton, and Ernestine Johnson. Scott-Young applauded Diggs and Jones for remaining professional during filming and not letting their budding romance at the time overshadow the moviemaking process. Making the movie was a labor of love for Scott-Young, and she hopes to produce more films under the "Love and Murder" banner.
"I hate that it’s taking off at a time of a strike," Scott-Young said of her moviemaking plans coming during the COVID-19 pandemic. "This is the time to dig in and expand the horizons. What do I want to do next and of course scripted was a natural progression."
After managing some of hip-hop’s biggest acts, including Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes, Scott-Young is proud to see how far the music genre has come in its 50 year anniversary. She recently took rising rap star Scar Lip under her wing on the encouragement of Busta Rhymes and Swizz Beatz.
Scott-Young is no stranger to backlash and strong responses from fans and critics. But it’s criticism she takes in stride as she continues producing quality work. "Anything that elicits a response means that you’re having an impact," she says. "I take it all. It comes with the territory."
Beyond talent management, television and film production, Scott-Young is also involved in brand and consumer product development as part owner and chief marketing officer of Myx Fusions, a fruit-infused premium, ready-to-drink moscato beverage.
Despite her packed schedule, Scott-Young has learned the importance of work-life balance and has transitioned to a more remote life that includes more time with her family and loved ones. With her successful ventures in film, music, and product development, it's no wonder Mona Scott-Young is a media mogul.
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