POWER MOVES: Kerry Washington Inks Overall Deal With ABC Studios

Kerry Washington Inks Overall Deal With ABC Studios

Kerry Washington is making major power moves and spreading her black girl magic at the same dang time!

The “Scandal” star has inked an overall two-year deal with ABC Studios to develop broadcast, cable and digital projects through her Simpson Street production company.

Here’s more scoop via Deadline:

As part of the deal, Washington has brought in Sharla Sumpter Bridgett as development executive/producing partner at Simpson Street.

Kerry Washington ConfirmationSimpson Street’s first project, which preceded the overall deal, was the Anita Hill/Clarence Thomas HBO movie Confirmation, which the company produced with ABC Signature as well as Groundswell Productions and HBO Films. The movie, in which Washington starred alongside Greg Kinnear and Wendell Pierce, premiered this month to strong reviews.

“I believe strongly in the importance of having a seat at the table, which makes starting this production company thrilling for me,” Washington said. “It’s an honor to be at a point in my career when I can help generate projects that that are exciting, necessary and truly reflect the world around us. I’m grateful to be on this journey with ABC, a network that remains unparalleled in its commitment to inclusive storytelling.”

scandalS5Washington became the first black woman in nearly four decades to headline a network TV drama when Scandal premiered on ABC in 2012. It was followed by How to Get Away With Murder, toplined by Viola Davis, and other ABC series praised for their diverse casts and authentic storytelling including drama American Crime and comedies Black-ish and Fresh Off the Boat.

“Kerry Washington is not only a great actress but a smart, creative producer, and we’re thrilled to have her new production company Simpson Street as part of ABC Studios,” said Patrick Moran, EVP of ABC Studios. “We’re looking forward to making great television with Kerry both in front of and behind the camera.”

Congratulations to Kerry Washington!

Scoop