*Houston’s once-thriving Turkey Leg Hut is headed to the small screen in a new documentary that promises to unpack the explosive story behind its rise and fall. The film, spearheaded by Hillionaire Productions, will explore the turbulent journey of the restaurant that began in a Houston rodeo parking lot and ended in federal investigations and shuttered doors.
According to The Houston Chronicle, “The Rise and Fall of The Turkey Leg Hut” is set to begin filming next week. The production is being led by Jami McCoy-Lankford, a Houston-based producer whose work has appeared on BET, Lifetime, and AMC. McCoy-Lankford says she first encountered the Turkey Leg Hut story while looking into the restaurant’s former building for her own culinary venture. That initial curiosity evolved into a full-fledged documentary effort following the indictment of co-founder Lynn Price on arson charges.
“If I don’t do it, somebody else will,” McCoy-Lankford explained. “We have the opportunity to set the record straight here. This is what happened, no matter who’s at fault.”
While the documentary has attracted attention, it has also sparked controversy. Nakia Holmes, who co-founded the Turkey Leg Hut alongside Price, has publicly denied any involvement in the production. “I have not signed any agreements, nor have I given permission for my name or story to be used,” Holmes said in a statement. “My story is mine to tell… I just want peace, healing, and to be left out of anything that I did not authorize.”
McCoy-Lankford, however, insists Holmes had originally agreed to participate, citing text messages as evidence. A spokesperson for Holmes shared alternative messages in response, underscoring the tension surrounding the project.
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“This has been an incredibly emotional and personal chapter for me, and seeing my name attached to something I do not want to be a part of has been deeply hurtful,” said Holmes.
“Unfortunately, some people see your pain as an opportunity for profit. That’s not integrity, that’s exploitation,” she added.
Despite Holmes’ withdrawal, McCoy-Lankford is pressing on. The film will feature insights from ex-staff members, initial backers such as gospel artist James Fortune, and notable local figures and celebrities who were regulars at the restaurant. She has also arranged to interview Price, who remains in federal custody awaiting trial.
Founded in 2015, Turkey Leg Hut transformed from a food stall into a major fixture in Houston’s Third Ward. It became known for long lines, celebrity visits, and oversized turkey legs. But the success was accompanied by controversy: public scrutiny over dress codes, lawsuits, health code violations, and criminal charges.
By 2023, Holmes had announced her divorce from Price. The following year, a fire ravaged the business, which soon after failed a health inspection and filed for bankruptcy. The restaurant officially closed in November 2024. Price’s legal troubles escalated, with authorities alleging he sold marijuana through the restaurant, further tarnishing the brand’s reputation.
For McCoy-Lankford, the story goes beyond scandal. “This is more of a teachable moment than putting anyone on blast,” she said. “They really put Almeda on the map. That legacy deserves to be acknowledged, even alongside the mistakes.”
Hillionaire Productions is currently in discussions with major streaming platforms, aiming for an August release.
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