What happens when a family runs the most dangerous game in town? The answer lies in the heart of New Orleans, where the Duncan family’s underground casino becomes the center of a high-stakes war. “Family Business New Orleans” isn’t just a show—it’s a pulse-pounding look into a world where blood ties mean everything, and betrayal is the costliest mistake. As tensions rise and rival crime bosses clash, the Duncans find themselves fighting for survival in a city where the nightlife hides the darkest secrets.
Set in the vibrant but treacherous streets of New Orleans, this new crime drama from Carl Weber dives deep into the complexities of running a family business when that business just so happens to be a high-rolling, no-holds-barred casino operation. With Big Shirley Duncan at the helm, played by the talented Lela Rochon, viewers are in for a wild ride. The series premieres on BET+ on January 23, 2025, with two episodes dropping at once, and fans can catch more on Philo starting July 17, 2025.
So what makes this show so compelling? For starters, it’s not just about flashy cars and big money. It’s about a family torn between loyalty and survival. When a rival crime boss’s brother dies at the casino, the stakes get personal. Big Shirley sends her son away for protection, but he’s not one to run from a fight. This is where “Family Business New Orleans” really kicks into gear, blending drama, suspense, and raw emotion into every scene.
Table of Contents
- What is “Family Business New Orleans”?
- The Duncan Family: Power, Pride, and Peril
- Characters and Casting: Who’s Who in the Duncan Saga
- Why is This Show Different From Other Crime Dramas?
- Where to Watch “Family Business New Orleans”
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is “Family Business New Orleans”?
“Family Business New Orleans” is the latest spin-off from Carl Weber’s popular “Family Business” universe. It follows the Duncans, a powerful family who run a high-end underground casino in New Orleans. But when a rival crime boss’s brother dies on the casino floor, the family finds itself dragged into a brutal war for control of the city’s underworld.
Big Shirley Duncan, the matriarch, is a force of nature. She’s not only the owner of the Midnight Blues club but also the brains behind the family’s criminal empire. When danger hits too close to home, she doesn’t hesitate to call on her New York-based relatives to help even the score.
The show blends drama, action, and emotional depth, exploring how far a family will go to protect its legacy. It’s not just about the casino—it’s about the ties that bind and the lengths they’ll go to keep those ties from breaking.
The Duncan Family: Power, Pride, and Peril
At the heart of “Family Business New Orleans” is the Duncan family. Big Shirley, played by Lela Rochon, is the glue that holds everything together. Her club, Midnight Blues, is more than just a front—it’s the heart of their operation. But when a rival boss’s brother dies there, the Duncans find themselves caught in a deadly game of revenge and survival.
The show delves into family dynamics in a way that’s both raw and relatable. Big Shirley’s son, played by Pooch Hall, is sent away for safety, but he’s not the type to sit on the sidelines. Meanwhile, the New York branch of the family steps in to handle the mess in their own way—bringing their own brand of street justice to the Big Easy.
It’s a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of doing business in a world where trust is a rare commodity. The family’s underground casino isn’t just a business—it’s a legacy, and they’ll stop at nothing to protect it.
Characters and Casting: Who’s Who in the Duncan Saga
Character | Actor | Role |
---|---|---|
Big Shirley Duncan | Lela Rochon | Matriarch of the Duncan family and owner of Midnight Blues |
Shirley's Son | Pooch Hall | Hot-headed heir to the family empire |
New York Family Members | Jackson, Benjamin Stephens | Arrive to help restore order with their own brand of justice |
Each character brings something unique to the story. Big Shirley is both nurturing and ruthless, a mother and a mob boss in equal measure. Her son is caught between wanting to prove himself and being forced into the shadows. And the New York relatives? They’re not just backup—they’re the muscle, the brains, and the fury all rolled into one.
Why is This Show Different From Other Crime Dramas?
Crime dramas are nothing new, but “Family Business New Orleans” stands out for a few key reasons. First, the family aspect adds a layer of emotional depth that’s often missing in the genre. This isn’t just about territory and money—it’s about what happens when those things threaten the people you love most.
Second, the setting is unlike anything else on screen right now. New Orleans brings its own flavor to the story, with its rich history and complex underworld. The show doesn’t shy away from the gritty realities of running an illegal business—it shows the consequences, the sacrifices, and the emotional toll it takes.
Third, the cast brings a level of authenticity and raw energy that makes the story feel real. Lela Rochon delivers a powerhouse performance as Big Shirley, and Pooch Hall brings a fiery intensity that keeps viewers hooked. It’s a show that knows how to balance action with emotion, and it does both well.
Where to Watch “Family Business New Orleans”
If you’re wondering where to catch the drama unfold, here’s the good news: “Family Business New Orleans” premieres on BET+ on January 23, 2025, with two episodes dropping at once. For those who prefer streaming services, the series will also be available on Philo starting July 17, 2025.
Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or just curious about what makes the Duncan family tick, this is one series you won’t want to miss. You can also learn more about the show and its cast on BET+’s official site. And if you're looking to dive deeper into the world of crime dramas, be sure to check out our other articles and for more behind-the-scenes insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does “Family Business New Orleans” come out?
The series premieres on BET+ on January 23, 2025, with two episodes released at once. It will also be available on Philo starting July 17, 2025.
Who is in the main cast of “Family Business New Orleans”?
The main cast includes Lela Rochon as Big Shirley Duncan, Pooch Hall as her son, and Jackson and Benjamin Stephens as members of the New York-based Duncan family.
What is the show about?
“Family Business New Orleans” follows the Duncan family as they navigate a dangerous underworld in New Orleans after a rival crime boss’s brother dies at their casino. Big Shirley calls on her New York relatives to help restore order in the only way they know how—through street justice.



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