Jennifer Lopez is set to star in an HBO movie based on the life of a notorious real-life cocaine smuggler, TheWrap has learned.
The film will trace the rise and fall of Griselda Blanco, the drug lord known as “The Cocaine Godmother” who revolutionized the U.S. drug trade during the 1970s and 1980s and became the most powerful female cartel member of all time.
“I’ve been fascinated by the life of this corrupt and complicated woman for many years,” Lopez said. “The idea of teaming with HBO felt like the perfect fit for finally bringing Griselda’s story to life.”
Lopez will also executive produce the series through her Nuyorican Productions banner. Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, also of Nuyorican, will also executive produce.
Benny Medina is also executive producing the film, along with Julie and Rick Yorn for LBI Entertainment. Alex Pettyfer, Priscilla Porianda, and Patrick Walmsley will co-executive produce. Nuyorican Productions and LBI Entertainment will produce for HBO.
Lopez is an international music and film star who currently stars on and produces the hit NBC police drama “Shades of Blue” alongside Ray Liotta, Drea de Matteo, and Dayo Okeniyi.
She also recently landed a series order for a new dance competition series on NBC, which she will executive produce.