Grammy and Oscar Award-winning rapper Common continues to make moves in the world of film and television.
On the heels of announcing landing a role in the upcoming Keanu Reeves film, John Wick 2, the 43-year-old Chicago native has just signed a two-year deal with HBO that grants the cable giant first dibs on projects developed through his Freedom Road production company.
“I don’t know if words can express (and you know I love to write and talk) how Grateful and Blessed I feel to be a part of the @HBO family. I don’t take this blessing lightly and we (Freedom Road) will do ALL within are our strengths, vision and capacity to create some of the GREATEST stories EVER!,” Common wrote in a Instagram post announcing the deal. “Giving TV the art, integrity, social awareness, imagination, ingenuity and entertainment aspects that we have envisioned for a long time. Our stories will utilize all ethnicities as writers, actors, directors, show runners, costume designers, directors of photography, camera operators, make-up artists, grips, lighting directors, PA’s and caterers.”
Prior to the HBO deal, the “Glory” rapper was tapped by rival network Showtime to produce an as-of-yet untitled coming of age drama to be set in his hometown.
“We’re showing the world what it is to be a young person growing up in Chicago,” Common said about the project, “the good and the tough parts. The humanity.”
Up next for Common will be a role as the gatekeeper in the upcoming NBC production of The Wiz Live! set to air on Dec. 3.
