Touchstone gets first look at Bythewoods

Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood

Disney Television Studios’ Touchstone Television has signed a first-look TV deal with married filmmakers Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood.

Touchstone Television is the new name for Fox 21 Television Studios, which was renamed as part of Disney’s rebranding activities earlier this week.

Under the multi-year deal, the couple will develop TV projects for broadcast and streaming platforms via their Undisputed Cinema production banner, which aims to tell stories that show humanity on screen and create empathy between the characters and viewers.

The pair previously worked with 20th Century Fox Television, now 20th Television, on Fox’s 2017 drama series Shots Fired.

Prince-Bythewood, who made her directorial debut with romantic sports drama film Love & Basketball in 2000, recently directed superhero film The Old Guard for Netflix and is set to direct historical epic feature The Woman King.

Bythewood, meanwhile, is writing and directing Apple TV+ series Swagger, which is inspired by NBA star Kevin Durant’s experiences as a youth basketball player.

“We are dedicated to telling stories that show the breadth of our humanity, entertain and say something to the world, and we are incredibly excited to work with Touchstone to expand our reach,” the duo said in a joint statement.

Touchstone’s president Bert Salke added: “We have wanted to be in business with Reggie and Gina for a very long time, as it’s hard to think of any two multi-hyphenates who are as forward-thinking and talented as this gifted duo.

“Starting years ago, from New York Undercover to Love & Basketball to Shots Fired, through Gina’s recent feature The Old Guard, their body of work is beyond impressive. Perhaps most importantly, they’re awesome people who have built a reputation of kindness and intelligence.”