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‘Married to Real Estate’: Building Dreams Together

The success of “Married to Real Estate” involves family, business, celebrity, industry, and many moving parts. At the core of their endeavors is a commitment to purpose. “Success isn’t just about what you have—it’s about who you can bring along the way,” Egypt concludes. Through their work, they aim to help others build lives rooted in purpose, proving that love, legacy, and community can indeed flourish together.

Published

6 months ago

May 21, 2025

Nsenga K. Burton Ph.D.

By Nsenga K. Burton, Ph.D, BlackPressUSA Newswire’s Culture and Entertainment Editor

In the realm of real estate and television, few duos embody the spirit of collaboration and love quite like Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson, the hosts of HGTV’s “Married to Real Estate.” Their journey is not just about flipping houses; it’s about flipping narratives and creating a legacy that resonates deeply with their audience.

Egypt’s path to real estate was somewhat circuitous. Initially starting her career in radio, she was always surrounded by the world of real estate, thanks to her uncles, who were brokers and investors. “It was in my DNA,” she reflects. After experiencing the empowerment of flipping homes, Egypt realized that real estate was her true calling.

Mike’s path to real estate was also in his DNA. “I’ve always been drawn to building and creating,” says Mike. “As a kid, if I wasn’t on the road touring and homing in on my DJ chops, I was on a construction job site with my grandfather and uncle, sharpening my builder skills, which later in my life turned into a career in construction and renovation.” Mike became a successful general contractor, securing his future in construction. Initially, not sure of a career in real estate, he decided to give it a try after Egypt made it more intriguing with the possibility of working together. “Watching my wife flip homes and seeing the impact she had on people’s lives made me want to be a part of it,” Mike explains. “She encouraged me to get my license so we could keep everything in-house, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. ‘Married to Real Estate’ came from us living this life every day—we just invited the cameras in.”

The invitation was productive, with the power couple building a following and reputation for great work and great television. “Married to Real Estate” is a show that aims to inspire others by showcasing the beauty of homeownership and the collaborative journey of building a life together as a couple and family.

In its fourth season, viewers tune in on Wednesdays to see Egypt and Mike hard at work making real estate dreams come true. Complementary strengths make Egypt and Mike’s on-screen chemistry compelling. Egypt brings a creative vision and emotional storytelling, while Mike provides structure and calm craftsmanship. Their genuine respect for one another shines through, making their interactions relatable and authentic. “We bicker, we laugh, we get the job done—but most importantly, we respect each other,” Egypt shares.

Balancing business, marriage, and parenting has not been without its challenges. The couple emphasizes the importance of faith, grace, and mutual support. “We remind ourselves often: this is bigger than us. We’re building a legacy, not just a brand,” Mike adds. Their journey is a testament to the idea that love and business can coexist beautifully, even amidst the chaos of life. “Egypt’s the visionary—she sees the finished product before we even start. I’m more technical. I make sure the structure is sound, the permits are in place, and everything meets code without compromising design,” he offers. “That’s the balance we bring. And being a couple, there’s a trust that runs deeper than business. We know how to push each other and also when to pull back. Our relationship sets the tone for how we show up on set and with our clients.”

Through “Married to Real Estate,” Egypt and Mike aim to convey that wealth, love, and legacy can be built while having fun. They want their audience to understand that a home is more than just a transaction; it’s a place where stories unfold. “We hope everyone sees themselves in us,” says Egypt, highlighting the importance of representation, particularly for Black families who have historically been underrepresented in media.

For couples considering working together, it’s not for the faint of heart. Egypt offers sage advice: “Know your lane and respect each other’s gifts,” she advises. “Clear communication and defined roles are crucial but so is making time for each other outside of work to maintain a healthy relationship,” she adds. Finding balance in their busy lives involves setting boundaries and being intentional about family time. “Our kids keep us grounded,” Egypt explains, emphasizing the importance of emotional check-ins alongside logistical ones. “Marriage takes work, and so does self-care.” Mike agrees. “We’ve had to be intentional about checking in, communicating openly, and protecting our peace,” he explains. “The wins are great, but the real triumph is still liking each other at the end of it all. That takes work.”

Looking ahead, Egypt is excited about launching her Indigo Road home collection in JCPenney stores and continuing to support women entrepreneurs through her nonprofit, 1000 Women Owned. Meanwhile, Mike is focused on expanding his renovation company and mentorship programs. “I’m focused on growing Jackson Draper Renovations and creating a space where I can mentor young men in construction,” says Mike. “I want to create more apprenticeships, more opportunities, and more representation behind the walls—not just on camera. I also have a few projects in development that highlight skilled trades in a way that’s never been done before,” he adds. Together, the entrepreneurs and community servants are committed to building meaningful projects, both on and off the screen.

Being part of HGTV has provided Egypt and Mike a platform to inspire others. “It’s one thing to renovate homes—it’s another to inspire people to see what’s possible for their own lives,” Egypt states, highlighting the responsibility they feel as role models. “We hope ‘Married to Real Estate’ continues to inspire people around the world through the streaming platforms for years to come,” adds Mike.

As “Married to Real Estate” continues to inspire viewers, Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson remind us that home is not just a place; it’s a journey filled with love, laughter, and limitless possibilities.

“Married to Real Estate” airs Wednesdays at 9/8c p.m. on HGTV and MAX.

This article was written by Nsenga K. Burton, Ph.D., editor-at-large for NNPA and founder & editor-in-chief of The Burton Wire.

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Michael: The King of Pop’s Story Returns to the Big Screen

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — The curtain has finally lifted on one of Hollywood’s most anticipated films. Lionsgate has unveiled the official trailer and release date for “Michael,” the sweeping biopic about Michael Jackson that has been years in the making.

Published

1 day ago

November 6, 2025

Stacy M. Brown

By Stacy M. Brown
Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent

The curtain has finally lifted on one of Hollywood’s most anticipated films. Lionsgate has unveiled the official trailer and release date for “Michael,” the sweeping biopic about Michael Jackson that has been years in the making. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film will arrive in theaters on April 24, 2026, with the singer’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, stepping into the spotlight to portray his legendary uncle.

The trailer wastes no time rekindling the aura of Jackson’s genius. Opening with a studio scene between Jackson and his longtime producer Quincy Jones, played by Kendrick Sampson, the clip builds from a quiet, familiar rhythm to the electrifying pulse of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’.” Viewers catch glimpses of the singer’s childhood, flashes of “Thriller,” and the silhouette that redefined pop culture. Each frame reminds fans of why Jackson remains unmatched in artistry and influence. The cast surrounding the late pop king’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, reads like a who’s who of Black entertainment and music history. Colman Domingo plays Joe Jackson, Nia Long portrays Katherine Jackson, and Larenz Tate takes on the role of Motown founder Berry Gordy. Laura Harrier portrays music executive Suzanne de Passe, while Kat Graham embodies Diana Ross. Miles Teller plays attorney John Branca, a towering entertainment lawyer and longtime Jackson confidant who later became co-executor of his estate. The film’s journey to release has been as complicated as the icon it portrays. Production wrapped in 2024, but legal hurdles over depictions of past controversies forced extensive reshoots and editing delays. Even so, Fuqua’s film now appears ready to reclaim the narrative, focusing on Jackson’s creative ambition and humanity beyond tabloid noise. IndieWire reported that the film had faced “a massive legal snafu” over a disputed storyline but was retooled to center the music and legacy that defined generations.

Maven. Photo Credit: Glen Wilson

“Michael” promises more than a chronological retelling. It aims to explore how a child star from Gary, Indiana, became the world’s most influential entertainer. The script, written by Oscar-nominated John Logan, traces Jackson’s early years with the Jackson 5 through the triumphs and isolation of global superstardom. With Fuqua’s cinematic eye and producer Graham King—who brought “Bohemian Rhapsody” to life—joining forces with estate executors Branca and John McClain, the film is positioned as both a tribute and a restoration of Jackson’s cultural truth. Branca’s work behind the scenes has long shaped Jackson’s posthumous success. After the singer died in 2009, Branca and McClain took control of the estate burdened by debt and turned it into a global powerhouse worth billions. Under their stewardship, Jackson’s projects have generated more than $3 billion in worldwide ticket sales and landmark deals, including a $600 million joint venture with Sony earlier this year. At its heart, though, “Michael” is a story about artistry that transcends scandal. It offers a reminder that, despite the noise surrounding his life, Jackson’s music still bridges continents and generations. The trailer’s closing moments capture that spirit. As the beat of “Billie Jean” swells and Jaafar Jackson moonwalks into a spotlight, audiences are left with a familiar feeling—the awe of witnessing something timeless return home.

“Michael” opens worldwide in theaters April 24, 2026. See the official trailer here.

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Donald Trump Is the Biggest Loser

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — The Trump Brand took a significant hit as it was swept up in the Democratic blue wave of the election last night.

Published

2 days ago

November 5, 2025

Oakland Post

By April Ryan

The Trump Brand took a significant hit as it was swept up in the Democratic blue wave of the election last night.

Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for U.S. House of Representatives (AR-02), says, “Last night was electric, and it was unquestionably a wave.” Democrats won big in what is widely considered a repudiation of Trump’s 9 months at the White House in his second term.

In the state of Virginia, which produced the first big election night win and saw the election of the first woman governor, Democrat Abigail Spanberger, 56% of Virginia’s residents disapprove of President Trump. In New Jersey, 55% of state residents disapprove of the president; in New York, 69% disapprove; and in California, 63% disapprove of the president. The Trump brand or his support for any candidates did nothing to benefit those he endorsed in this election. They actually lost in each race he publicly put his name behind. Trump endorsed former New York Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who lost the New York mayor’s race in his run as an independent. And New Jersey Republican Jack Ciattarelli, who ran for governor with the presidential endorsement, also lost his prospective race.

The next question is, will the democratic momentum be sustainable? Jones further explained, “This can become a 2026 tsunami, but turning a wave into a tsunami takes energy. A lot of energy. It doesn’t just happen. The conditions are there. Now we have to work!”

Some Democrats would argue that the work is already underway. The pushback against Trump’s national redistricting efforts received a thumb in the eye from California voters. Prop 50, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s counterbalance to President Trump’s redistricting efforts, passed in California last night. Although Trump’s name was not on the ballot last night, his Republican policies were. The United States has now entered the longest government shutdown in its history. Forty-two million Americans are not getting SNAP benefits. Economists are acknowledging that the government shutdown is contributing to the rise in delinquent debt in the student loan, automotive, and credit card industries. These items are among the negatives Americans are protesting against.

Compounding Trump’s political problems is a tariff battle that’s directly impacting pocketbooks. The day after the elections, the Trump administration was arguing before the US Supreme Court in favor of the president’s tariff powers. Meanwhile, President Trump‘s poll numbers are underwater, standing at a 37% national disapproval rate

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Historic Beatdown: Democrats Sweep Virginia as Speaker Don Scott and Jay Jones Make History

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — In a clear rejection of the policies of President Donald Trump, history repeated itself in Virginia.

Published

2 days ago

November 5, 2025

Oakland Post

By Lauren Burke

In a clear rejection of the policies of President Donald Trump, history repeated itself in Virginia. Democrats once again swept all three statewide offices as they did in 2017 during Trump’s first term. Abigail Spanberger easily won the office of Governor, and State Senator Ghazala Hashmi won her race over John Reid to be the next Lieutenant Governor. The victories occurred against the backdrop of a historic win in Virginia by Spanberger that will give Virginia its first woman Governor.

Spanberger’s widely predicted win over Republican gubernatorial nominee Winsome Earle-Sears was called 17 minutes after the polls closed in Virginia at 7 pm. Former Delegate Jay Jones won his race against incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares. His victory means Jones will be the first Black Attorney General in Virginia’s history. Jones’ win was particularly noteworthy since the last month of his campaign was consumed by the issue of private text messages from 2022 to Republican Delegate Carrie Coyner. Republicans ran a non-stop barrage of negative ads against Jones for a month.

Del. Coyner lost her bid for re-election to Delegate-elect Lindsey Dougherty. The Dougherty race was the number one target for House Speaker Don Scott and his campaign lieutenant, Delegate Dan Helmer. Coyner’s defeat was one of at least 13 victories for Democrats who have now added to their ranks in the Virginia House to historic margins. When the Virginia General Assembly returns to session in January, there will be at least 64 Democrats in the chamber. The widespread Republican defeat is a testament to a combination of historic fundraising, Democrats running in all 100 seats, dislike of President Trump’s policies, and an ineffective top of the ticket featuring Lt. Gov. Earle Sears.

+13: Speaker Scott and Del. Helmer Hit Historic Numbers in Fundraising and Power

As the evening ended, a glaring historic fact became clearer: The Virginia House of Delegates will expand to a historic number. The change means the largest Democratic House chamber in the modern era. There were several notable wins by Democrats running for the Virginia House. They include Virgil Thornton, Lilly Franklin, and Kim Pope Adams. Speaker Don Scott and his campaign chair, Dan Helmer, undertook a record fundraising effort never before seen in Virginia’s history. The moment of success for Virginia Democrats will be viewed as a positive signal for Democrats moving into the 2026 elections.