Variety reports that 50 Cent has signed a four-year overall deal with Starz.
Sources with knowledge of the deal tell Variety it could be worth up to $150 million. The deal includes a three-series commitment, the addition of a dedicated development executive, and a discretionary fund for use in developing G-Unit projects.
"When I sat down with Chris [Albrecht, Starz CEO] and walked him through my plans for G-Unit Film & Television going forward, he let me know I was essentially requesting the biggest deal in premium cable history,” said 50 Cent. “I am excited to announce that we’ve made that partnership between myself, G-Unit Film & Television and Starz/Lionsgate and we will continue our proven track record of breaking records and delivering unique content for audiences around the world … Get The Strap.”
Included in the deal is the drama Power, which is the highest rated original series in Starz history.
50 has two other projects in active development at Starz: Black Mafia Family, about the notorious drug trafficking organization, and Vanguard, which is about a Navy SEAL who comes home and to defend his family against a drug cartel.
A Starz rep wouldn't comment on the deal's reported value, suggesting that 50 and his people may be exaggerating its largesse.
But even if there is a little fake flexing with the numbers, it seems Fif has recovered nicely from his bankruptcy.