Netflix, also known as “The Trillest Acquisition Company In The Industry,” is now setting its sights on Africa.
According to South African publication IOL Entertainment, the streaming juggernaut will be developing Queen Sono, a dramedy starring Pearl Thusi (Quantico) about a top-level spy on a mission to improve the lives of South Africa’s citizens. While tackling her most dangerous mission, she must also deal with her personal relationships.
Netflix wants Queen Sono to join the ranks of their other iconic heroines.
“Taking talent like this and telling stories to the rest of the world puts Pearl in the same category as other strong female characters like Claire Underwood in “House of Cards” and Jessica Jones,” noted Netflix’s Vice President of International Originals Erik Barmack.
“We love the team behind the show, [and] we’re passionate about coming in and doing something that feels fresh and different,” exclaimed Netflix VP of International Originals for Europe and Africa, Kelly Luegenbiehl. “Their point of view and creating a strong female character was really something that also really drew us to it.”
The new project will come from director Kagiso Lediga and executive producer Tamsin Andersson, who also worked with Thusi in the South African romantic drama Catching Feelings, The Hollywood Reporter reports.
“It’s going to change the game for every artist on this continent,” said Thusi on her Twitter account Monday, as she started to tear up.
Netflix won’t be about that “one and done” life in Africa, either. The streaming platform plans to develop more projects set within the continent, as well.
“Over time our roots will get deeper in Africa and South Africa, and we’re moving pretty quickly to that now, and plan to invest more in local content,” Barmack continued.
Queen Sono will debut in 2019 and is set to be available for streaming in 190 countries.
I just have one question: We getting a crossover with The Crown or nah? Let’s hope Queen Elizabeth II doesn’t take this, too. Huzzah.