Hulu has today given a series order to the original drama series Wu-Tang: An American Saga based on one of hip-hop's most influential groups, the Wu-Tang Clan. The drama is also inspired by the philosophic books The Wu-Tang Manual and its sequel, Tao of Wu, both written by Wu-Tang Clan frontman RZA.
Based on the true story of the Wu-Tang Clan, the drama is set in New York in the 1990s at the height of the crack cocaine epidemic. The series will follow the Clan's formation, a vision of Bobby Digs (aka RZA), who strives to unite a dozen young, black men who are torn between music and crime but who eventually rise to become the unlikeliest of American success stories. The Clan has released five gold and platinum albums and has sold 40 million albums worldwide.
Alex Tse (SuperFly) and RZA created the drama. They will executive produce with Method Man, Brian Grazer and Francie Calfo. Additional Wu-Tang Clan members Ghostface Killa, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa, GZA and the Estate of Ol' Dirty Bastard will serve as consulting producers. Imagine Television will produce.
"I'm delighted to be partnering with Hulu and Imagine to explore the vast story of the Wuniverse. Wu-Tang through our music has always strove to inspire as we entertain. This opportunity to continue the Wu - Saga in a 10-episode series will exponentially increase our inspirational style of entertainment. In the immortal words of ODB, 'Wu-Tang is for the Childre,'" said RZA.
"The Wu-Tang Clan has made an immeasurable contribution to music and our popular culture," added Craig Erwich, Senior Vice President of Originals, Hulu. "Their unique musical form and authentic storytelling continues to speak to our times. This series is a conversation worthy event that will bring their history and music to life in a way that hasn't been seen before."
