Josephine Baker Drama Series in Development

STUDIOCANAL is working with CPB Films (Savages, A Prophet) and Leyland Films (Murder in Provence) to develop an English-language drama series about Josephine Baker.

The series will focus on the celebrated entertainer and civil rights activist, who became the first Black global star performer. The venture comes with the approval and support of Baker’s family, particularly Jean-Claude Bouillon Baker, one of her sons.

Bouillon Baker commented, “STUDIOCANAL, CPB Films and Leyland Films are the best possible collaborators to tell Josephine’s incredible story. They have the full support of our family to bring this revealing project to life. I am extremely pleased to be consulting on the development and to share my in-depth, personal knowledge of my mother’s story, her values, her struggles and her unique influence throughout the world.”

Marco Cherqui at CPB Films and Jérôme Vignac at Leyland Films added, “We are delighted to be working with Studiocanal and Jean-Claude Bouillon Baker on this fascinating project. We plan to produce an ambitious and creatively inspiring TV series that will tell the captivating story of a true African-American icon.”

Anna Marsh, CEO of STUDIOCANAL, said, “Josephine Baker was a groundbreaking pioneer of her time and her multi-faceted, brilliant life story will have strong appeal to audiences both young and old around the world. We are confident that personal insights from family members, combined with exceptional producers and Studiocanal’s expertise in exporting high-end content will mean this series is destined for global success.”