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Universal Pictures has greenlit a groundbreaking biopic about the extraordinary life of Martin Luther King Jr.
The studio has acquired the rights to adapt Jonathan Eig’s highly acclaimed biography, “King: A Life.”
Chris Rock is set to direct and produce a major movie, with the legendary Steven Spielberg as executive producer. Produced by Amblin Partners, the film will be a collaboration between Rock and Kristen Macosko Krieger.
“King: A Life” has captivated readers with its gripping narrative and has even been nominated for the National Book Award. This definitive biography sheds light on Dr. King’s courage and constant battle against a hostile government, all while striving for peaceful protests in an era of segregation.
The book’s groundbreaking use of previously classified FBI information unveils a side of Dr. King overlooked by history.
Rock, known for his comedic prowess, will also star in the upcoming film “Rustin” directed by George C. Wolfe.
In “Rustin,” Rock plays a pivotal role as Roy Wilkins, the NAACP leader who reluctantly supported the iconic 1963 march on Washington organized by Bayard Rustin, culminating in Dr. King’s legendary “I Have a Dream” speech.
With his success as a director and writer of “Top Five,” Rock has proven his talent behind the camera.
Rock is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry as a four-time Emmy and three-time Grammy winner.
His recent Netflix stand-up special, “Chris Rock: Selective Outrage,” became the first global live-streaming event.
Additionally, his animated series “Everybody Still Hates Chris” will soon be available for streaming worldwide on Paramount+ and Comedy Central.
Under the guidance of Universal’s Senior Vice President of Production Development, Ryan Jones, this biopic promises to be a remarkable portrayal of an influential figure in American history.
The book deal for “King: A Life” was brokered by Lucy Stille at Lucy Stille Literary on behalf of the David Black Agency.
Jonathan Eig, the acclaimed author, has multiple book-to-film adaptations in the works, including “The Birth of The Pill,” “Ali: A Life,” and “Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig.” He has also worked as a consulting producer on the PBS series “Muhammad Ali.”
With an all-star team assembled, Universal Pictures is ready to bring the inspiring story of Martin Luther King Jr. to the big screen like never before. Get ready for a biopic that will undoubtedly captivate audiences worldwide.