Hulu grants a straight-to-series order for Wu-Tang: An American Saga series

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Hulu has announced that they've got a new project in the works that ain't nuttin ta fuck wit. Earlier today, the streaming giant shared that they've given a straight-to-series order for a new drama titled WU-TANG: AN AMERICAN SAGA. Written by Alex Tse (SUPERFLY) and Wu-Tang Clan front man The RZA, the 10-episode series will be executive produced by Imagine’s Brian Grazer (EMPIRE, GENIUS) and Francie Calfo (EMPIRE, GENIUS), Wu-Tang Clan’s The RZA and Method Man, and Tse. Imagine Television creative executive James Seidman will oversee the project for Imagine.

When WU-TANG: AN AMERICAN SAGA kicks the proverbial door in, the series will explore and expand the world of the Wu-Tang clan, making the endeavor Hulu’s second project with Brian Grazer’s Imagine following the Emmy and Grammy Award winning documentary, THE BEATLES: EIGHT DAYS A WEEK – THE TOURING YEARS. Inspired by “The Wu-Tang Manual” and “Tao of Wu”, and based on the true story of the Wu-Tang Clan, the upcoming drama will take fans of the legendary rap ensemble back to an early '90s New York at the height of the crack cocaine epidemic. As the saga continues, viewers will experience the birth of the Wu-Tang Clan, a vision of Bobby Diggs aka The RZA, who strives to unite a dozen young, black men that are torn between music and crime but eventually rise to become the unlikeliest of American success stories.

Considered to be among one of the most influential rap outfits of all time, the Wu-Tang Clan has released five gold and platinum albums, selling 40 million records worldwide. Those who enjoy the group's infectious beats, biting rhymes, and enigmatic persona will know that their reach stretches beyond the music, by way of video game titles, clothing lines, top-shelf liquors, and much more.

“I’ve been a fan of Wu-Tang since the mid-90’s and recognized quickly how significant Wu-Tang and The RZA were to the world of hip-hop music and culture. Over the years I’ve gotten to know RZA and it’s clear that he is the soul and storyteller of Wu-Tang. Working with RZA and Alex Tse on this series has been a highlight of my career and Hulu is the perfect partner to bring this story to a global audience,” said Grazer in a statement.

“The Wu Tang clan has made an immeasurable contribution to music and our popular culture” Craig Erwich, Hulu’s SVP of Originals added. “Their unique musical form and authentic storytelling continues to speak to our times. This series is a conversation worthy event that will bring their history and music to life in a way that hasn’t been seen before.”

"I’m delighted to be partnering with Hulu and Imagine to explore the vast story of the Wuniverse. Wu-Tang through our music has always strove to inspire as we entertain. This opportunity to continue the Wu – Saga in a 10-episode series will exponentially increase our inspirational style of entertainment. In the immortal words of ODB “Wu-Tang is for the Children,” said The RZA.

Also looking to add his voice to the chorus was Wu's Method Man, who said “Imagine, Hulu and Wu-Tang – I’m thrilled with this collaboration. This is a major win for hip hop”

Tse then voiced his excitement for the gig by saying “Ever since I heard "Da Mystery of Chessboxing" on the B-side maxi-cassette single of "C.R.E.A.M." I've been a lifelong Wu fan.  I'll be celebrating this by buying a pair of Clarks Wallabys.”

In addition to seeing their origin story represented on the small screen, Wu-Tang Clan members Ghostface Killa, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa and GZA as well as the Estate of Ol’ Dirty Bastard, will serve as consulting producers on the project.

“Ayo u know what it is, Wu-Tang is forever. We're stepping into new chambers with Hulu and bringing our fans with us,” said Ghostface Killa.

“I look forward to collaborating with Hulu and Imagine for the production and filming of The Wu-Tang Series. This has been a long time request from fans and supporters for many years and it is long overdue. We now get to grant their wishes,” said GZA.

Heh. I love how there were almost as many quotes to post as there are members of the Wu-Tang Clan. It's rather apropos, don't you think?

Be sure to stay close as more information about WU-TANG: AN AMERICAN SAGA is bound to drop. In the meantime, be sure to check out the Wu-Tang album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) for a taste of the group's legendary skills.

 

Source: Hulu

About the Author

Born and raised in New York, then immigrated to Canada, Steve Seigh has been a JoBlo.com editor, columnist, and critic since 2012. He started with Ink & Pixel, a column celebrating the magic and evolution of animation, before launching the companion YouTube series Animation Movies Revisited. He's also the host of the Talking Comics Podcast, a personality-driven audio show focusing on comic books, film, music, and more. You'll rarely catch him without headphones on his head and pancakes on his breath.