Hulu Orders New Scripted Show Based on Wu-Tang Clan

Hulu has placed a straight-to-series order for Wu-Tang: An American Saga, an upcoming drama inspired by the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.

Wu-Tang: An American Saga is created and written by Alex Tse (SuperFly) and Wu-Tang Clan front man The RZA. Set in New York during the 1990s, the 10-part show is based on the true story of the musical group. It is being executive produced by Imagine Television’s Brian Grazer (Empire, Genius) and Francie Calfo (Empire, Genius), The RZA, Method Man and Tse.

Grazer remarked: “I’ve been a fan of Wu-Tang since the mid-’90s and recognized quickly how significant Wu-Tang and The RZA were to the world of hip-hop music and culture. Over the years I’ve gotten to know RZA, and it’s clear that he is the soul and storyteller of Wu-Tang. Working with RZA and Alex Tse on this series has been a highlight of my career, and Hulu is the perfect partner to bring this story to a global audience.”

“The Wu-Tang Clan has made an immeasurable contribution to music and our popular culture,” noted Craig Erwich, Hulu’s senior VP of originals. “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.”

Calfo stated: “It is fitting that Wu-Tang: An American Saga is our first series to launch this new chapter as an independent production company/studio as it embodies all of the elements we look for in a story: ambition, vision, imagination, community and the power of music to transcend our lives.”

The RZA commented: “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 Children.’”

Method Man said: “Imagine, Hulu and Wu-Tang—I’m thrilled with this collaboration. This is a major win for hip-hop.”

Tse noted: “Ever since I heard ‘Da Mystery of Chessboxing’ on the B-side maxi-cassette single of ‘C.R.E.A.M.,’ I’ve been a lifelong Wu fan. I’ll be celebrating this by buying a pair of Clarks Wallabys.”

Wu-Tang Clan’s Ghostface Killa, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa and GZA, as well as the Estate of Ol’ Dirty Bastard (ODB), will serve as consulting producers.

Ghostface Killa remarked: “Ayo u know what it is, Wu-Tang is forever. We’re stepping into new chambers with Hulu and bringing our fans with us.”

GZA added: “I look forward to collaborating with Hulu and Imagine for the production and filming of the Wu-Tang series. This has been a long time request from fans and supporters for many years and it is long overdue. We now get to grant their wishes.”