Curtis Nichouls 

By Aziatikk Blakk

JA Contributing Writer 

The sudden death of Curtis Nichouls, a friend first and filmmaker who helped bring revenue, jobs and A-List movie production to Mississippi, is being felt across all spectrums of community development. Curtis died August 22, 2026, at his Jackson home from natural causes. He was 51. 

Among his projects were “A Day to Die” starring Bruce Willis in 2021, “God’s Prayer” (2007), “Premium Rush” (2012), “Black Site Delta” (2017), “River Runs Red” (2018), “Atone” (2019), “Hell on the Border” (2019) and “Grace Wins” (2023). 

Beyond his individual film credits, Nichouls was a vital force in the Jackson community. In 2024, he spearheaded a major initiative to revitalize the area by purchasing the former Dillard’s building at the old Metrocenter Mall. He was actively transforming the space into a permanent film studio, training center, and headquarters for Sweet Unknown South Studios to create technical jobs for local youth and film students. He was also deeply involved with his community fraternity chapter, the EKK Omega Men, where he served as an executive team member and photographer.

In his memory, several organizations, businesses and individuals, including his significant other, Kyla Lindsey, have pledged to continue his push to expand Mississippi’s film industry, mentor local film students, and create opportunities for filmmakers and workers in the city and state.

“When I think of Curtis, I don’t want to remember only the sadness of losing him. I want to remember his passion, his laughter, his ideas, his love for his community, and the way he poured himself into the people and things that mattered to him,” said Lindsey. 

“Curtis was passionate about everything he did. He cared deeply about people and about Jackson, Mississippi, and he spent so much of his time thinking about ways to make Jackson a better place,” she said, adding, “We spent many hours discussing the plans for the show that he was working on, ‘The Warrant Unit’ as well as other projects, such as his plans with the film studio and his plans on improving the Jackson Zoo.”

Funeral services were held August 27, 2026, at Liberty MBC in Canton, MS.