Dr. Guy Fisher is known as “The real Godfather of Harlem,” and is the former owner the world-famous Apollo Theater. Fisher became respected as the Robin-Hood for the people and was released October 28 from Yazoo Mississippi Federal Prison after serving 38 years for being involved in the heroin enterprise with the infamous drug lord Nicky Barnes’ The Council. Nicky betrayed him and Guy was sent to prison for life.
While in prison Guy earned a Master’s Degree and PHD. in Sociology. After being introduced by Gene Anthony Ray (Fame/Leroy) Debbie Allen took a real interest in his novel “VICIOUS CIRCLE,” and helped him start a writing program for a class of his fellow inmates Miss Allen has long believed that his true story is as gritty, and dynamic…as “American Gangster,” “The Godfather of Harlem” and “New Jack City” combined could become a symbol of possibility and change.
Dr. Fisher says “The one thing that took hold of me, and freed me from hatred, was when I started writing. I have known Debbie Allen Nixon for almost 35 years and I have been writing manuscripts and true stories but I wanted to start writing a screenplay and asked her to send me a few samples. Shortly thereafter, I received approval to open a Book and Screenplay writing Class while in prison. Because of Debbie Allen more than 100 men have published books and screenplays.”
Ms. Allen says “Guy has chosen education and creativity over hate. The fact that Dr. Fisher can be a real architect of change for so many young men who get lost every day in the criminal justice system is what interests me.”
Debbie Allen is currently serving as executive producer/director for “Grey’s Anatomy” and has directed more than 50 television and film productions. Remembered as Lydia Grant (Dance Teacher) in the musical drama TV series “Fame” she received a Golden Globe Award and two Emmy Awards Outstanding Choreography and was a 4-timeEmmy Award nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. As a Producer/Director her credits include “A Different World,” “Amistad,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “That’s So Raven,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Empire” and “Scandal” among many others.
In 2001, Allen opened The Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) where she currently teaches young dancers.
