Punk-funk artist and onetime Toronto resident Rick James is set to be the subject of a new true crime biopic.
The series — tentatively titled Super Freak after James' biggest hit — is being written and executive produced by Randy McKinnon and Channel Zero's Nick Antosca and cosigned by James' daughter Ty James.
The series has yet to be picked up by a streamer, but as per Deadline, the show is in development by Universal Content Productions. The story is said to be a mix of true crime and music biopic, covering James' comeback attempt in the 1990s after going to prison on kidnapping and assault charges.
"We are truly ecstatic about this new project with UCP and extremely excited to work with the writer Randy McKinnon," his daughter said in a statement.
She added: "We are confident he can give the fans exactly what they have been waiting on, plus some. This will be a magic carpet ride, with ups and downs, joys and pain — a story of perseverance and tenacity, with the music being the greatest navigation system. Get ready for the ride of your lives — the story of James A. Johnson, AKA Rick James!"
Ty James is also on board to executive produce, alongside award-winning journalist Mike Sager.
So far, few other details about the project — including casting, release schedule or much else — have been announced.
The series — tentatively titled Super Freak after James' biggest hit — is being written and executive produced by Randy McKinnon and Channel Zero's Nick Antosca and cosigned by James' daughter Ty James.
The series has yet to be picked up by a streamer, but as per Deadline, the show is in development by Universal Content Productions. The story is said to be a mix of true crime and music biopic, covering James' comeback attempt in the 1990s after going to prison on kidnapping and assault charges.
"We are truly ecstatic about this new project with UCP and extremely excited to work with the writer Randy McKinnon," his daughter said in a statement.
She added: "We are confident he can give the fans exactly what they have been waiting on, plus some. This will be a magic carpet ride, with ups and downs, joys and pain — a story of perseverance and tenacity, with the music being the greatest navigation system. Get ready for the ride of your lives — the story of James A. Johnson, AKA Rick James!"
Ty James is also on board to executive produce, alongside award-winning journalist Mike Sager.
So far, few other details about the project — including casting, release schedule or much else — have been announced.
