Entertainment
Tyler Perry’s Six Triple Eight on Netflix: A Feel-Good Holiday Movie with a Powerful Historical Message
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) –This holiday season, settle in for a feel-good movie that’s both uplifting and educational. Tyler Perry’s Six Triple Eight, now streaming on Netflix, tells the incredible true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—an inspiring and little-known chapter of World War II history. It’s the perfect film for those looking to be inspired by real-life heroes and celebrate the unsung contributions of women of color.
The story centers on the 855 Black women who were sent to Europe during WWII to tackle a massive backlog of undelivered mail—17 million pieces that had accumulated over three years. These women, led by Major Charity Adams (played by the talented Kerry Washington), had the crucial task of sorting through and delivering these letters from home to the soldiers fighting abroad. Their mission wasn’t just logistical—it was about boosting the morale of those on the frontlines by reconnecting them with their families and loved ones, offering them a sense of hope in the midst of war.
When producer Nicole Avant (daughter of the late music mogul Clarence Avant and his wife Jacqueline) first pitched the story to Tyler Perry, he was shocked to learn about the battalion. “You’re kidding me, right? There’s no way that there were 855 Black women in Europe during World War II,” Perry recalled. But after hearing more about their mission, Perry was immediately captivated. He dove into research, including an article by historian Kevin M. Hymel, who would later serve as the film’s historian, bringing the true story to life on screen.
In Perry’s hands, Six Triple Eight isn’t just a historical drama—it’s a tribute to the courage, strength, and perseverance of these incredible women. Kerry Washington’s portrayal of Major Adams is powerful, capturing the essence of a leader who faced immense challenges—racism, sexism, and the brutal realities of war—but never wavered. The film not only highlights their hardships but celebrates their triumphs, showing how these women overcame adversity and changed history without the recognition they deserved.
The film doesn’t just stop at the battlefield. At the end of Six Triple Eight, the surviving members of the 6888th Battalion share their real-life experiences, offering a heartwarming and deeply emotional look at the legacy of these women. Their voices remind us of the enormous contributions of Black women in history—stories that have long been overlooked but are now being told with the respect and honor they deserve. Among them is Lena Derriecott, who, at the time, was 100 years old. She reads the names of her fallen sisters: Elizabeth Bernice Barker Johnson (2020), Maybelle Campbell (2021), Deloris Ruddock (2021), Anna Mae Wilson Robertson, Romay Johnson Davis, and Fannie Griffin McClendon. As of 2022, only three members remain: Fannie McClendon, Lena King, and Anna Mae Robertson. Their voices remind us of the enormous contributions of Black women in history—stories that have long been overlooked but are now being told with the respect and honor they deserve.
For women of color, Six Triple Eight is especially significant. It shines a long-overdue spotlight on their contributions, honoring the legacy of Black women who were often left out of the history books. This film is also a must-watch for anyone who respects and appreciates our female veterans, as it highlights the essential role these women played in uplifting the spirits of American servicemen during a difficult time.
Six Triple Eight is the perfect movie for the holidays—heartwarming, inspiring, and educational. These women’s ability to clear a backlog of 17 million pieces of mail in record time wasn’t just an impressive logistical feat—it was a lifeline for soldiers who longed to hear from their families. Their work not only delivered letters but also restored hope and morale to countless soldiers on the frontlines.
So, gather your loved ones and dive into this incredible story that celebrates bravery, resilience, and the essential role women have always played in shaping our history. Six Triple Eight is a reminder of the power of connection and the profound impact these women had on the hearts and minds of our troops. Don’t miss it—this is one movie you’ll want to watch and share.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
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Photo by J Willie David, III | Florida National News
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Entertainment
OIFW Fall 2025 Brings Fashion, Art, and Entertainment to Downtown Orlando with Exclusive Rooftop and Runway Events
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) has officially announced its Fall 2025 event lineup, promising an extraordinary week of fashion, art, and entertainment across Downtown Orlando. Known for merging creativity, culture, and community, OIFW will showcase local and international designers, celebrity hosts, and captivating live performances at some of Orlando’s most iconic venues.
Sunday, November 9, 2025 – Opening Night at CityArts
Location: CityArts, Downtown Orlando
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Sponsor: Downtown Arts District
Event Host:
Chad Pitt – Radio Personality, “Chad and Leslye in the Morning Show,” Magic 107.7
Fashion Designers:
Tenique Designs
Ellie Paisley Art
Avor + Pazniak
Entertainment:
K.She’ – Singer/Songwriter
London Simone – Contortionist
OIFW kicks off opening night at CityArts, bringing together the best of Orlando’s visual and fashion arts scene in a creative fusion of color, texture, and performance.
Saturday, November 15, 2025 – Rooftop Fashion Experience
Location: Altira Rooftop Pool + Lounge, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Event Host:
Christina Carmona – Award-Winning Actress and Filmmaker
Fashion Designers:
Betta Novais Designs
Sim Allure
Event Highlights:
Guests will enjoy a luxurious rooftop day party and fashion showcase, complete with live music, curated runway presentations, and the city’s trendsetters mingling under Orlando’s skyline. Drinks and food will be available for purchase.
Sunday, November 16, 2025 – Family and Finale Fashion Events
Location: Eola View, Downtown Orlando
Times: 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
3:00 PM Event Host:
Mimi Mala – Radio Personality, Model, and Host
Fashion Designers:
My Little Matilda
Dillard’s Children
Davenport Fashion Lab
Dillard’s Youth
Celebrity Style Showcase Models:
Pao Pati | Mayra Uribe | Azela Santana | Julia Goolia | Kairy Lopez
Entertainment:
Alyssa Herrera – Singer/Songwriter
Moova Dance – Dance Studio Performance
6:00 PM Event Host:
Sierra Rainge – Media Powerhouse and Brand Strategist
Fashion Designers:
Roszuar | Culture Trees | Artelio | Constella Designs | Dillard’s | Jezra | BAmoryProductions | Sim Allure
Celebrity Style Showcase Models:
Bethany Worley | Mimi Mala | Azela Santana | Daniela Droz | Anntwan Fredrick
Entertainment:
Zaycuatro – Singer/Songwriter
Scott Barnhill – Singer/Songwriter
These closing events at Eola View highlight both family-oriented fashion and Orlando’s rising stars in music, art, and design, offering a grand finale to an unforgettable fashion week.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Entertainment
Mayors Buddy Dyer and Jerry Demings Join Tribute to James H. Pugh’s Legacy at Dr. Phillips Center
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts unveiled a stunning new bronze relief sculpture honoring Chairman Emeritus James H. Pugh, Jr., the visionary leader whose commitment and leadership helped turn the dream of a world-class performing arts center into reality. The piece, created by world-renowned sculptor Paul Day, was revealed during a heartfelt ceremony attended by community leaders, including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, both of whom shared remarks celebrating Pugh’s remarkable contributions.
A Visionary Who Shaped Orlando’s Cultural Landscape
From 2003 to 2022, James H. Pugh, Jr. served nearly two decades as chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center, guiding the project from concept to completion. His leadership, expertise, and steadfast vision were instrumental in creating one of Orlando’s most iconic cultural institutions.
Alongside his wife, Alexis Pugh, he became the first donor to the project, helping establish the 294-seat Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, a beloved venue that has hosted thousands of regional artists and performances. Under his direction, the Center also opened the 2,700-seat Walt Disney Theater and the acoustically acclaimed Steinmetz Hall, which Architectural Digest named one of the 11 most beautiful theaters in the world.
A Masterpiece by Renowned Artist Paul Day
Commissioned by longtime friend and arts center donor Neal Dempsey, the bronze relief sculpture was crafted by internationally recognized artist Paul Day, whose works include The Meeting Place at St. Pancras Station in London and A Beautiful Day for a Neighbor at Rollins College.
This new artwork captures the essence of Pugh’s leadership, perseverance, and dedication to the arts, symbolizing the collective effort that brought the Dr. Phillips Center to life. “Jim has been instrumental in bringing this dream and our promise of Arts for Every Life to the region,” said Kathy Ramsberger, President & CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center. “His vision and generosity shaped every step of our journey. This sculpture ensures he will always remain part of our story.”
A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations
During the unveiling, Ed Timberlake, Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of Pugh’s contributions: “Today, we celebrated three powerful forces—transformative vision, unwavering perseverance, and the magic that happens when a community rallies behind a dream. Jim proved that with enough determination and heart, you can turn an ambitious dream into a living, breathing cultural cornerstone.”
Ticketed guests can now view the sculpture on the first tier of the Della Phillips Lobby. The installation was made possible through generous support from Jan & Neal Dempsey, with additional contributions from Valeria & Jim Shapiro and Bill Forness.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
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