Nia Long (ex-Kathryn Speakes, Guiding Light) is bringing the saga of power, race, and political intrigue from Goldie Taylor's 2018 bestseller Paper Gods to ABC.
Guiding Light fans will be happy to hear that Nia Long (ex-Kathryn Speakes) has partnered with John Legend's Get Lifted Film Co for a television adaption of the 2018 Goldie Taylor novel Paper Gods. The actress will both executive produce and star in the series, which has been picked up by ABC.
Paper Gods spotlights the personal and professional struggles and battles of Atlanta Mayor Victoria Dobb, who will be portrayed by Long in the series. The book also peels back the layers on the assassination in a church of Dobb's mentor, a much-venerated congressman.
"This project has been a passion of ours for a long time and Nia's commitment has never wavered," shares Sony Pictures TV VP Drama Development Lauren Stein. "When Tash [Gray] signed on [as showrunner], it completed this great team. We are so happy to be moving forward with it at ABC."
Shares Long, "Victoria Dobbs is a beautifully flawed and complicated character. 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. [Get Lifted co-founder Mike Jackson], John, and Tash are my dream team!"
Adds Gray, who wrote Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and Notorious B.I.G., "Nia and I came together in remembrance of our friend, and my mentor, John Singleton. From that friendship blossomed an opportunity to tell a profound story that's near to my heart. Both of us, girls from the hood, stand proud as strong Black women dedicated to telling the truth about our existence in a world that rarely champions or protects us. Yet, we continuously endeavor to save the world. I'm so happy and excited to work with amazing people to tell a layered story guaranteed to captivate audiences with Ms. Nia Long as our lead."
Paper Gods is currently in development and is expected to begin production later this year.
Long got her start in the entertainment industry playing GL's Kathryn from 1992 to 1993 before going on to land roles in shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Judging Amy, Third Watch, Dear White People, Empire, and NCIS: Los Angeles.
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