In today's tv roundup, we've got the deets on Lee Daniels new FOX project and news about Uzo Aduba and Amber Riley joining the cast of NBC’s The Wiz Live!
Lee Daniels has the Midas touch when it comes to television. With one EXTREMELY successful season of "Empire" under his belt, the folks over at FOX are putting their trust in the critically-acclaimed director for a new music-themed vehicle. Is he about to become the SHonda Rhimes of Fox?
Deadline.com reports FOX has placed an order for a new Daniels project named "Star" and we love the concept.
Set in Atlanta, "Star" is a drama that centers on three girls who are coming together to form a band and all the drama and conflict they encounter on their rise to the top.
FOX spokeswoman Dana Walden spoke about "Star" saying,“The project features a lot of Lee’s own DNA and represents a new perspective, that of the artist. The setup lends to a great soap operatic storytelling machine.”
Lee will co-write and executive produce the series with "The Whole Truth" creator Tom Donaghy AND he'll also direct. "Star" is a part of an overall deal he signed 20th Century Fox TV.
Hmm....while we hear Lee has already tapped Mariah Carey for "Empire's" Season 2, we're hoping she makes an appearance on "Star" too.
In other tv news, it's been announced that "Orange is the New Black’s" Uzo Aduba and Glee’s Amber Riley have been added to the cast of NBC’s The Wiz LIVE.
Uzo, an Emmy winner and classically trained singer, will be playing Glinda, the Good Witch of the South. Meanwhile, "Glee" actress and "DWTS" winner Amber will play Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North.
Wiz executive producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron released a statement about the new additions saying,
“We look forward to showcasing the amazing musical talents of Amber, and we are eager to introduce Uzo’s remarkable singing voice for those who know her solely as an extraordinary dramatic actress,”
Uzo and Amber will join newcomer Shanice Williams, as Dorothy; Queen Latifah as the Wiz; Mary J. Blige as Evillene (the Wicked Witch of the West) Stephanie Mills as Auntie Em, and David Alan Grier, who will play the Cowardly Lion. Also, they've hired choreographer Fatima Robinson (“Dreamgirls,” “Ali”).
The Wiz LIVE! airs on Thursday, December 3rd at 8/9c on NBC. SO here for it!
Photos: Getty
