Peacock's “Fight Night” uses artists and companies to bring '70s energy to the 404

Chicken Man, Cadillac Richie, JD Hudson, Vivian Thomas and of course a guy named Frank. Why? Well, isn't there always a guy named Frank?

These are some of the players in Peacock's new original limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist. The Show Is Executive produced by Will Packer and Kevin Hart, who also stars as Chicken Man, viewers are transported to Atlanta, Georgia in the 1970s on the night of Muhammad Ali's comeback fight. Through a backdrop of opportunity, style, hope and obstacles, viewers can see how Atlanta became the Mecca for black people in America.

Fight Night is based on the acclaimed true crime podcast that tells the true story of an armed robbery that takes place on the night of the epic comeback fight. Celebrities and top entertainers flock to Atlanta to watch the fight, and Chicken Man, a local crook, is throwing an after-party to celebrate the fight. Unfortunately, his event becomes ground zero for a brazen robbery. In hopes of clearing his name and the perceived connection he has to crime, Chicken Man must team up with an old foe before it's too late.

To celebrate the premiere on September 5th of Fight Night: The Million Dollar Robbery, Atlanta and Peacock are doing it big. Peacock is shining a spotlight on local Black businesses in Atlanta, offering retro prices on historic and beloved establishments across the city on Saturday, August 24. They've enlisted the help of two Black artists, EL Chisolm and Ingrid Yuzly Mathurin, to create four custom murals across the city highlighting participating businesses offering food, drinks, merchandise and other items at retro prices.

Locals also have the opportunity to see a replica of Chicken Man's 1966 Cadillac Calais in Atlanta, built by world-famous auto-tuning shop West Coast Customs and its student academy. Check out the Black-Owned Businesses offering retro pricing in partnership with Peacock's. Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.

Sublime Donuts

As a nod to that era, Sublime Donuts (10th St, NW, near Georgia Tech) is offering 25 cent Chocolate or vanilla doughnuts, which were popular flavors in the 1970s. Founded in 2008 by Kamal Grant, the candy-filled restaurant has two locations, both open 24 hours a day (in case you're craving something sweet after business hours). And while the eatery boasts all sorts of flavors (A-Town Mocha and Ying-Yang Twist are just a few of the treats), chocolate and vanilla are simple but classic options for a reason.

Paschals

What if you could get a drink and a top-notch chicken sandwich for less than three dollars? What would you do? On Saturday, August 24, Paschal's in downtown Atlanta is offering all guests sweet teas for 50 cents (normally $5) and their famous chicken sandwich for $2 (normally $15).. Paschal's is a staple in the city, with roots stretching back more than 75 years. The Paschal brothers, James and Robert, opened their first eatery at 831 West Hunter Street in Atlanta, and it has become a central meeting place for the biggest names in music and politics for generations. Fight Night brings this real-life tradition into the show by playing a prominent role in the series.

Anitra Isler for Dayna's House

Clermont Hotel (Rooftop Bar)

Atlanta's skyline is one of the most beautiful in the country, and seeing it with a nice cocktail in hand isn't a bad deal either. The Clermont Hotel's famous rooftop bar on historic Ponce De Leon Avenue offers visitors a chance to step back in time. On Saturday, August 24, you can enjoy a black-brand whiskey and coke for $4 or tequila and ginger for $4. The Clermont Hotel is an Atlanta landmark and also prominently featured in Fight Night.

Anitra Isler for Dayna's House/Complex

Nail Studio Tu La 2

Today they call it self-care, but in the '70s it was just a manicure. On Saturday, August 24, Tu La 2 Nail Salon is offering their signature manicure (normally $55) for $19.70. Their famous $15 cuticle oil will be discounted to $2, and their luxe body lacquer, normally $35, will be available for $9. You can't beat these prices. Just as the COVID-19 pandemic was cooling down, twin sisters (and manicurists) Sabrina Brie Rowe and Sharlinda Rowe-Parker opened their business, and the salon, which specializes in natural nail care, took off! It's also become a favorite hangout for some A-list celebs, which only solidifies its reputation as the best salon.

Copper Bay

Top-notch cocktails at a reasonable price? Who wouldn't jump at the chance? On Saturday, August 24, Copper Cove in the heart of Buckhead will be offering $10 cocktails that embody the spirit of the '70s and F.Good night. The $10 cocktails include “The Heist Highball,” “'70s Smash,” or an “Atlanta Heist Mule.” From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., guests can enjoy a nice drink in an upscale yet cozy setting that is exactly what Atlanta was all about in the 1970s.

Brooklyn Tee ATL

Sometimes a good cup of tea is the answer to life's dilemmas. And if you've ever found yourself in that situation, then Brooklyn Tea ATL is a company you should know about. Founded by Jamila Wright along with her husband and tea sommelier Alfonso Wright, this couple has one mission: to connect people through the art and ritual of tea. To help, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Robbery, Brooklyn Tea ATL is offering customers a peach ginger tea blend for 50 cents on August 24th. Stop by, grab a cup and let the first sip banish your fears.

Against ATL

Fashion and style in Atlanta cannot be denied or underestimated. Versus ATL knows this and has decided to participate in the Fight Night Promotion. On Saturday, August 24, Versus ATL is offering its branded sock set for $4 (normally $20), logo embroidered hoodies for $15 (normally $80), and embroidered trucker hats for $8 (normally $40). Located in downtown Atlanta, the premier vintage and streetwear clothing store features pieces from the '80s and '90s, as well as Versus' signature apparel.

Village in Ponce City

The old saying, “It takes a village,” holds true for any endeavor that requires hard work, community and resilience. The Village Retail, 675 Ponce De Leon Ave, NE Suite 225, is a place where Black consumers and entrepreneurs can connect and build community while supporting a Black-owned business. On August 24, Village is offering its three best-selling embroidered T-shirts at special, back-to-back pricing. Shirts include the HBCU T-shirt, Support Is A Verb T-shirt and Atlanta T-shirt for $15 (regularly $60). Stop by to see the merchandise, and stay for the loving community.

Learn more about muralists EL Chisolm and Ingrid Yuzly Mathurin and their creative process below.

What mentality, energy or attitude from the 1970s would you like to see among black people in 2024?EL Chisolm: The '70s in Atlanta was a time marked by resilience, pride, and a deep sense of community among Black people. There was a strong belief in the power of collective progress, and that energy drove significant cultural and social advances. For 2024, I would love to see a revival of that unity and empowerment. The mentality that “we are stronger together” and the drive to build something lasting for future generations are timeless. It's about taking that bold, uncompromising attitude and bringing it to today's movements and initiatives.

What was your first thought when you heard the story, Fight Night based?

Ingrid Yuzly Mathurin: When I first heard the story, Fight Night I was instantly hooked. It felt like the perfect vibe of Atlanta – something that really captured the energy and culture of the city. I was like, “Wow, this is going to be awesome!” The cast is amazing and I can't wait to see how it all comes together on screen. I'm especially excited to see how everyone is styled because the '70s is one of my absolute favorite eras, both in fashion and art. The story inspired me and now I can't wait to see Fight. Night I myself!

What attracted you to the kind of art you make?EL Chisolm: I am drawn to art that tells a story – art that captures the essence of a moment, a place or a community. The ability to convey complex emotions, stories and desires through visual media is powerful. What attracted me to my particular style was the idea of ​​combining traditional techniques with contemporary themes, creating something that feels both timeless and relevant. I want my work to resonate with people on a personal level while contributing to a wider cultural dialogue.

You were commissioned to paint a mural. What is your creative process?

Me for young people: My creative process starts with endless hours of research – I delve into the history, themes and inspirations that will shape the mural. After that comes drawing countless sketches, which is often the hardest part. Conceptualizing the idea and bringing it to life on paper or my iPad takes time and patience, but once that's done, the rest of the process runs more smoothly. Next comes one of my favorite parts: paint shopping. I love choosing the colors and materials that will bring the mural to life. Working with a talented painting team is another highlight, as collaboration is key to an enjoyable and efficient process. After that, we sketch the design on the wall and get to work. Taking care of your team is crucial – good synergy with everyone involved makes the painting process much smoother and more enjoyable.

The first three episodes of Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist premiere exclusively on Peacock on Thursday, September 5. Tune in.