Rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has signed a new four-year overall deal with Starz, which includes a three-series commitment from the pay cable network.
Under the new agreement, Jackson will continue to develop scripted and unscripted projects for the Lionsgate-owned company through his G-Unit Film & Television, Inc. banner. Jackson, who executive produces Starz’s drama “Power,” will also get a dedicated development executive and a discretionary fund for use in developing projects under G-Unit.
Starz declined to comment on the value of the deal.
Jackson’s on-camera role in “Power” recently ended with the death of his character, Kanan, in the fifth season. Jackson plans to direct an episode next season. The deal also keeps Jackson as executive producer for all future seasons, and the network may look to expand the “Power” universe on TV or the big screen via Lionsgate.
“When I sat down with Chris and walked him through my plans for G-Unit Film & Television going forward, he let me know I was essentially requesting the biggest deal in premium cable history. I am excited to announce that we’ve made that partnership between myself, G-Unit Film & Television and Starz/Lionsgate and we will continue our proven track record of breaking records and delivering unique content for audiences around the world…..Get The Strap,” said Jackson.
Jackson already has two projects in development at Starz: “Black Mafia Family” and “Vanguard.”
“Black Mafia Family” is inspired by the story of Demetrius ‘Big Meech’ Flenory, the leader of a drug trafficking organization in Detroit. The series looks at the intersection of the drug industry and the music industry, with Randy Huggins executive producing. “Vanguard,” which David Graziano is on board to executive produce, follows the story of Blake Megaton, a recent ex-Navy SEAL, who is forced to return home to Long Beach and face his gangster beginnings, in order to defend his family’s criminal trucking empire from the violent drug cartel who is now trying to wipe them out.