Sony, John Legend adapt novel for ABC

US network ABC has ordered an original drama series from Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and Get Lifted Film Co, the prodco owned by music star John Legend.

Nia Long (photo: MingleMediaTVNetwork via CC)

Paper Gods is based on the Goldie Taylor novel of the same name and follows a complicated girl next door who becomes the mayor of Atlanta. Set in the world of politics and power, the show will confront issues of race, wealth and humanity.

The series will star Nia Long (Boyz n the Hood), who will also exec produce alongside SPT and Get Lifted Film Co’s Mike Jackson, Legend and Ty Stiklorius. Jackson is spearheading the project on behalf of Get Lifted. Taylor will also serve as producer, with Tasha Gray on board as showrunner.

Lauren Stein, exec VP of drama development at SPT, said: “This project has been a passion of ours for a long time and Nia’s commitment has never wavered. When Tasha signed on, it completed this great team. We are so happy to be moving forward with it at ABC.”

Get Lifted’s forthcoming projects include David E Talbert’s holiday film Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey and documentary Giving Voice, both for Netflix, and sports drama Signing Day, made in partnership with basketball star Steph Curry’s Unanimous Media for Sony Pictures.