According to Deadline, Nas is in talks to develop a new series. The show will revolve around Maurice Ashley, who became the first Black Chess Grandmaster in 1999.
The Queensbridge rapper is collaborating with producer Mark Canton. Canton has worked on a slew of projects, including 50 Cent’s Power. In a recent statement, Nas expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to bring Ashley’s remarkable life to the screen.
“His story is one of greatness and his perseverance will continue to inspire the next generation of thinkers,” he said in a recent statement.
Not only did Ashely — a native of Brooklyn— make history as the first Black Grandmaster, but he’s also responsible for various community efforts, including founding the Harlem Chess Center and offering coaching to national champion collectives. Ashely is also the author of Chess For Success (2005). In 2016, he was inducted into the United States Chess Hall of Fame for his accomplishments.
In other news, the Illmatic rapper plans to expand his business portfolio and bring a casino to Queens, NY.