MTV Entertainment Studios is reportedly developing a series examining one of the most harrowing events in American history, the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The series will look at the events that led up to the massacre, the violence that ensued and its lasting effecting on the city. Details regarding the series are still few and far between, but early reports suggest Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance will star in the series.
"Angela and I have always had a deep appreciation for history, especially when it comes to stories that are rooted in the Black community," Vance said.
"We look forward to working on this series with MTV Entertainment Studios that will explore an important slice of American history as we look to reflect on events that changed the lives of countless Black families in Tulsa, Oklahoma one hundred years ago."
Behind the scenes, Nathan Alan Davis is set to write the series. Davis new to MTV Entertainment Studios, but he is best known as a playwright and author. In his career, he has won both the Lorraine Hansberry Award and the Blue Ink Playwriting Award. Adding on the team, Amal Baggar, Dwayne Johnson-Cochran and Lynnette Ramirez will produce the show.
"Exploring the history of Tulsa's Greenwood District as a limited dramatic series affords us a precious opportunity and a deep responsibility. I greatly look forward to creating a story that will not only shed light on the people of Black Wall Street, but give fresh life to the spirit, ideas, hopes, fears, and dreams that motivated them," Davis added.
The announcement comes the city of Tulsa prepares to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre. Marches, conferences and vigils have all been played for Memorial Day Weekend. All events will culminate with the "Remember & Rise" celebration featuring Hill Harper, John Legend and Stacey Abrams. It will be live-streamed nationally by the Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission.
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