EPIX Orders Godfather of Harlem with Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is on board to star in and executive produce Godfather of Harlem, a new drama that was ordered straight to series by EPIX.

The ABC Signature Studios-produced drama tells the true story of infamous crime boss Bumpy Johnson (Whitaker), who in the early 1960s returned from ten years in prison to find the neighborhood he once ruled in shambles. He forms an alliance with radical preacher Malcolm X.

Written and executive produced by Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein, the ten-episode series will see Whitaker executive produce through his company Significant Productions. Production will begin later this year, for a potential 2019 premiere on EPIX.

“We read the script, and met with Chris, Paul and Forest, and knew immediately that this show was perfect for EPIX,” said Michael Wright, the president of EPIX. “It’s an exciting and relevant story, brought to life by passionate, extraordinary talent and a great studio in ABC Signature. It’s exactly the kind of series we want to put on EPIX as we build awareness and expand the network’s distribution across the country.”

Patrick Moran, the president of ABC Studios, added, “EPIX is the perfect home for the fascinating and timeless story of Bumpy Johnson. We’re so appreciative of the unwavering enthusiasm and passion that Michael and his team have brought to the project. Chris and Paul’s script is phenomenal and we’re thrilled to have Oscar winner Forest Whitaker on board to produce and star.”

Whitaker commented, “Godfather of Harlem is a show with powerful relevance to the issues we face today—gang violence, police brutality, opioid addiction and racial politics in a divided country. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to bring this character to life and to work with Michael Wright, the EPIX team and ABC Signature, alongside excellent writers and producers.”