Mary J. Blige, under her new Blue Butterfly Productions banner, is officially set to be an executive producer of a drama series in development at USA Network, according to Variety.
The project is based on the life of Thelma Wright, who after the death of her husband was faced with two choices: take over the family business or let her family starve. In less than five years, Wright went from housewife to drug queenpin, forcing her way to the top of the international drug game and building one of the largest heroin and cocaine operations of the 1980s. And thus, “Philly Reign” is born.
The production of “Philly Reign” was announced only a few weeks after it was announced that Blige is set to appear on “Power Book 2: Ghost”, the spinoff of Starz’ “Power.” Luckily, Blige will be receiving help from “Empire” alums, JaSheika & JaNeika James, who will both write and executive produce as well. Other executive producers will include Drew Comins from Creative Engine Entertainment and Charles Murray. Ashaunna Ayars, Q. Nicole Jackson, Thelma and Jacky Wright will all serve as co-executive producers.
