Jay Z has signed a television and film deal with The Weinstein Company (TWC).
TWC announced Thursday that the deal will allow the company to have first-look options with the rapper to produce both scripted and unscripted television projects and film projects. In the coming weeks, projects TWC and Jay Z already have in development will be formally announced. This is the second such deal for TWC, as the company announced a multi-year deal with director Antoine Fuqua earlier this year.
“I’m excited to tell stories from real life prophets, whom through their struggles have changed the world for the better, and others whose stories are filled with fantasy and delight,” Jay Z said in a statement. “Harvey and David are visionaries both of whom have done this time and time again. I’m already passionate about what we currently have in the pipeline and I’m looking forward to discovering others.”
His past film credits include the Jamie Foxx remake of Annie, on which he served as producer, Chris Rock‘s Top Five, which he co-produced, and Baz Luhrmann‘s The Great Gatsby, which he executive produced.
“Having known Jay on a personal level for many years we are thrilled by the opportunity to expand our relationship,” TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein said in the statement. “Jay’s ability to influence entertainment and pop culture has gone well beyond music for many years. He approaches every aspect of his career with both determination and effortlessness, making him one of the leading power players in entertainment history.”
The deal was negotiated by TWC president and COO David Glasser, and Sarah Sobel, TWC’s executive vice president of business and legal affairs.
In addition to his stellar rap career, Jay Z runs his own sports agency, Roc Nation Sports, which boasts top-flight clients such as Robinson Cano, Kevin Durant and CC Sabathia.
The Weinstein Company was created by filmmakers Bob and Harvey Weinstein and has produced films such as Django Unchained, The King’s Speech and Silver Linings Playbook.
