Ron Artest to get own reality series

TORONTO -- Controversial Los Angeles Lakers forward Ron Artest is back in the headlines, only this time to star in his own reality series.

Related Topics

•Asia Movies, Entertainmen...

The bad boy NBA player is to develop and produce the "They Call Me Crazy" show with E1 Entertainment and Tijuana Entertainment.

The series will document the ups and downs of Artest's life, allowing him to "make amends for past transgressions," according to E1 Entertainment, and help develop aspiring musicians through his hip-hop label, Tru Warier, to be supported by E1 Music.

E1 is also looking to leverage its music division with a new studio album and reality show for hip-hop artist Faith Evans and a half-hour children's television series with KISS co-founders and frontmen Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

"I'm really excited to have the opportunity to invite people into my world to see the real me, and show them there are many more sides to the Ron Artest they see on the basketball court," Artest said in a statement.

Artest in 2004 gained notoriety when he attacked a fan in the stands during a Pacers–Pistons player brawl and has also stirred headlines for his off-court behavior.

"This show will allow me to share my experiences with others, and hopefully people can learn from the mistakes I've made," he added.

Artest and his Tru Warier Enterprises will share the executive producer credits with E1 Entertainment's John Morayniss and Tara Long, along with Tijuana's Troy Searer and John Foy.

E1 will distribute the series worldwide.