Tyler Perry enters White House for BET

US cabler BET Networks is starting work on a new White House-set drama from Tyler Perry as parent Viacom’s multi-year deal with the actor-writer gets underway.

Tyler Perry

The Oval marks the first fruits of the pact between the pair agreed two years ago and follows the expiration of Perry’s former arrangement with OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.

Starring Ed Quinn, Kron Moore, Paige Hurd and Daniel Croix Henderson, The Oval will begin principal photography this summer at Tyler Perry Studios.

“I’ve set out to create a show that tells the story of a family placed in the White House by people of power while also highlighting the personal side and everyday lives of the staff who run the inner workings of the nation’s most iconic residence,” said Perry.

He is writer, director and executive produced of the series, with Michelle Sneed also serving as exec producer.

The Oval is one among a number of projects Perry has lined up for BET, with one other drama series, two comedies and a live holiday-themed production in the works.

Perry has been behind seven TV series including scripted shows Love Thy Neighbor and The Haves & The Have Nots, as well as 16 feature films, 20 plays and a best-selling book.