Weinstein Co. Sets Exclusive Film and TV First-Look Deal With Jay Z

The Weinstein Co. has inked an exclusive film and TV first-look overall deal with Jay Z.

The pact is a two-year overall deal in which TWC will have first-look options with Shawn “Jay Z” Carter to produce television and film projects, both scripted and unscripted. Projects under this deal are already in development and will be announced in the coming weeks.

The rapper turned mogul’s past film credits include producing Will Gluck’s Annie remake, co-producing Chris Rock’s Top Five and executive-producing Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby.

“I’m excited to tell stories from real-life prophets who, through their struggles, have changed the world for the better and others whose stories are filled with fantasy and delight,” said Jay Z in a statement. “Harvey and David are visionaries, both of whom have done this time and time again. I’m already passionate about what we currently have in the pipeline, and I’m looking forward to discovering others.”

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“Having known Jay on a personal level for many years, we are thrilled by the opportunity to expand our relationship,” said TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein. “Jay’s ability to influence entertainment and pop culture has gone well beyond music for many years. He approaches every aspect of his career with both determination and effortlessness, making him one of the leading power players in entertainment history. We already have some exceptional projects in the works and are excited to see what more is to come.”

TWC president and COO David Glasser added, “Jay Z is an entertainment mogul with an unparalleled sense of the industry and limitless creativity. It’s an incredible opportunity to be able to collaborate with him as we continue to grow our TV division and look toward many more opportunities to create fresh content.”

The deal was negotiated by David Glasser and Sarah Sobel, executive vp business and legal affairs on behalf of TWC.