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
Central Florida News
“Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker” Brings Diversity and Magic to Orlando’s Holiday Stage
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) – When you hear the word “disability,” it’s easy to imagine limits, restrictions, and barriers. But for Jeffery Lorenzo Williams, those words have no place in his vocabulary. Paralyzed at 13, Williams identifies as a person of determination — a term that reflects strength and capability, not limitation. His life has become a masterclass in turning adversity into empowerment, proving that the most powerful movement begins in the mind.
During an exclusive interview with FNN News, Williams reflected on the event that changed his life and the mindset that carried him forward.
“I never focused on what I couldn’t do,” Williams said. “I focused on what I could and I just kept moving forward.”
That perspective has shaped a career defined by reinvention. Today, Williams is an accomplished New York City real estate broker, motivational author, pilot, and footwear designer. Each title tells part of the same story — one of perseverance, creativity, and purpose.
Through his footwear brand JLorenzo’s, Williams designs adaptive sneakers that merge fashion with motivation. His collections feature empowering inscriptions such as “Be somebody nobody thought you could be.” He laughs as he recalls me being his first customer. “Each inscription represents walking not just physically, but walking in purpose,” he said.
His work has not only built a stylish, inclusive brand but has also redefined what representation in fashion can look like. Earlier this year, Williams brought that message to Daniel’s Leather’s Inclusive Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week 2025, joining nearly 40 wheelchair-using models, including Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, Latavia Sturdivant. The event was more than a showcase — it was a celebration of visibility and empowerment. “The energy was incredible,” Williams said. “It wasn’t about being different, it was about being seen.”
Kareen Kennedy wearing her JLorenzos in 2019
Beyond fashion, Williams takes his passion for breaking barriers to the skies. As a licensed pilot, he flies glider planes, something he calls the ultimate expression of freedom.
“Flying gives me freedom,” he said. “It’s proof that even when life grounds you, you can still soar.”
His memoir, “My Feet Are Off the Ground: Turning Tragedy Into Triumph,” chronicles his remarkable journey from paralysis to success. Proceeds from the book fund nursing scholarships, extending his lifelong commitment to giving back. Looking ahead, Williams plans to bring his story to new audiences through a documentary and a stage play, with his son, Jeff Jr., potentially portraying him on screen.
Photo Courtesy of Jeffery Williams
When asked if he would change his past, Williams paused thoughtfully before answering.
“Of course, I’d love to walk,” he said. “But if I hadn’t gone through what I did, I wouldn’t have been able to touch and change lives the way I have. That’s worth more than anything.”
Jeffery Lorenzo Williams doesn’t just live with determination — he embodies it. Through his work, his story, and his example, he continues to challenge the world’s perception of ability. His life is a vivid reminder that real barriers often exist only where others place them, and that courage, when paired with purpose, can truly move mountain.
In a world quick to define people by their obstacles, Jeffery Lorenzo Williams is a compelling reminder that true limitation exists only where we allow it.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
Business
Maria del Carmen Rodriguez Joins Florida National News as Spanish-Speaking Reporter and Co-Host
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) is proud to announce the addition of Maria del Carmen Rodriguez as a Spanish-speaking on-camera reporter and co-host, marking another major step in the network’s statewide expansion and celebration of its 11th anniversary.
Rodriguez joins the growing team at FNN News en Español, where she will bring her bilingual communication skills and cultural insight to the forefront of FNN’s Spanish-language news and lifestyle programming. Her arrival underscores FNN’s commitment to serving Florida’s rapidly growing Hispanic and Latino communities with trusted, relevant, and inspiring storytelling.
FNN President J. Willie David, III stated, “Maria del Carmen Rodriguez represents the next generation of diverse storytellers who connect authentically with our audiences. Her addition reflects FNN’s continued mission to expand across Florida while elevating Hispanic voices in broadcast journalism. We are proud to welcome her as part of our 11th anniversary and our vision for the next decade of growth.”
FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario shared, “Maria brings a natural warmth and professionalism to every story she tells. Her passion for community-driven journalism and ability to connect with Spanish-speaking viewers make her a valuable asset to our team. She will help us continue producing content that truly reflects Florida’s diversity and the stories that matter most.”
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos added, “We’re excited to have Maria join the newsroom and our on-camera team. Her bilingual storytelling ability and dedication to authentic, people-centered reporting will strengthen both our English and Spanish platforms. She embodies the spirit of connection and inclusion that defines Florida National News.”
As Florida National News moves into its next decade, the network is expanding its presence across Florida with enhanced on-camera reporting, bilingual programming, and original digital content through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español — continuing its mission to inform, inspire, and empower communities statewide.
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News@FloridaNationalNews.com
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