Nia Long is going into politics.
Not in real life, but for a show that’s currently in development for ABC called “Paper Gods,” where she’ll play Atlanta Mayor Victoria Dobb, Deadline reports. The series is based on the 2018 book of the same name, written by former political strategist and Daily Beast’s editor-at-large Goldie Taylor. Long will be an executive producer on the series, along with John Legend’s Get Lifted Film Co. and Sony Pictures TV.
The show will surround the personal and professional challenges that Mayor Dobb faces, after someone is killed in a church that a highly respected congressman attends. The congressman is Dobb’s mentor and over time secrets are revealed about the murder.
“Victoria Dobbs is a beautifully flawed and complicated character,” said Long in a statement. “I look forward to exploring her journey as a wife, mother and politician. ‘Paper Gods’ highlights the profound impact Black women have on American politics and the world.”
Long also shared news of “Paper Gods” on her Instagram page, Tuesday, Aug. 11.
“Thank you @mike___jackson @johnlegend @tashmanian @goldietaylor and the rest of the team who worked so hard on the early stages of development,” she wrote. “Much love to #sonypicturesTV @abcnetwork Let’s Goooo! 🖤🖤🖤.”
As for Legend, he’s become a major player in the TV and film space since launching his Get Lifted Film Co. in 2012.
He co-owns it with Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius, and the trio inked a first-look deal with Sony Pictures TV some years ago. From there, they signed an exclusive three-year overall deal with ABC Studios, announced in 2019.
Some of the company’s projects so far include the WGN series “Underground” and “La La Land,” an Oscar-winning 2016 musical film that Get Lifted helped executive produce.
Legend hasn’t made a personal statement about “Paper Gods” yet, but Taylor did and she expressed thankfulness. She’ll reportedly be a producer on the show.
“I am so GRATEFUL and honored to share this news!” wrote Taylor, Monday, Aug. 10 on Twitter. “Thank you @johnlegend @NiaLong @mikejackson @sony and @ABCNetwork for bringing my story to life!”
