Recently it was announced that Chicago hip hop veteran Common will be starring in a TV show called Black Samurai based around a series of books written in 1974 by Marc Olden. A blaxploitation movie of the same name inspired by the novels was released in 1977 with Jim Webb in the leading role.
The show is still currently in development with RZA named as an executive producer of the show. The Wu-Tang producer and rapper was previously behind the soundtrack of the animated series Afro Samurai and its subsequent film Samurai Resurrection.
At this point the show is currently in the development stages with the aim of landing a spot on a major television network. Common is set to play the protagonist – Robert Sand, an ex-military officer out for vengeance who is saved by a Japanese Samurai master and trained for seven years. After watching his teacher get killed right in front of his eyes and being subjected to intense racism he sets out on a path to destroy the corrupt powers that ruined his life.
“Robert Sand is like black Jason Bourne. Black Samurai is one of the most unique, timely and fun experiences I’ve ever read, while at the same time tackling some serious subjects around race and diversity,” said producer Andre Gaines. “With ‘John Wick 2’ and ‘Suicide Squad’ coming up, Common was an obvious choice for the role, and I’m thrilled to have him on board. I believe he’s the next great American actor.”