Common and RZA Are Doing ‘Black Samurai’ TV Show Together

Common's acting resume continues to grow as the Chicago rapper is set to star as Robert Sand in the upcoming television adaption of Black Samurai. Variety reports that the show is currently in development with RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan attached as an executive producer.

Black Samurai is described as "the story of Robert Sand who is rescued by a Japanese samurai master and trained for seven years. After suffering from vicious racism in the military, and seeing his teacher and fellow samurai killed before his eyes by terrorists, Robert Sand becomes a killing machine, out to destroy the corrupt powers who had taken the lives of his friends."

Andre Gaines landed the rights to Marc Olden's 1974 book series, and the show will be Gaines' first developed under the Cinemation Studios banner. Producers are currently shopping the television series to networks. Once a network picks it up, producers will begin their search for the director and writer. Common's involvement in Black Samurai has reportedly helped it garner a lot of interest within the industry.

While speaking to Variety, Andre Gaines explained that RZA's involvement will add validity to the show due to the Wu-Tang Clan's longstanding connection to martial arts.

"There is a long tradition and storied relationship between hip-hop and martial arts," Gaines said. "Having RZA and the Wu-Tang brand on board to executive produce will validate the series even more and mobilize the fans."

RZA had previous success in bringing martial arts to the viewing audience as he directed and co-wrote the 2012 film The Man With the Iron Fists. He also co-wrote the movie's 2015 direct-to-video sequel.

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