Jay Z signs first-look deal with The Weinstein Company

30 Sep 2016 |

Rapper Jay Z is expanding his business empire by signing an exclusive first-look deal with bosses at The Weinstein Company.The 99 Problems hitmaker will help to develop movies and unscripted and scripted TV shows as part of the deal. "I'm excited to tell stories from real-life prophets, whom through their struggles have changed the world for the better, and others whose stories are filled with fantasy and delight," a statement from Jay Z reads. "Harvey and David (Weinstein) are visionaries both of whom have done this time and time again. I'm already passionate about what we currently have in the pipeline and I'm looking forward to discovering others."

"Having known Jay on a personal level for many years we are thrilled by the opportunity to expand our relationship," Movie mogul Harvey Weinstein adds. "Jay's ability to influence entertainment and pop culture has gone well beyond music for many years. He approaches every aspect of his career with both determination and effortlessness, making him one of the leading power players in entertainment history. We already have some exceptional projects in the works and are excited to see what more is to come."Jay Z, real name Shawn Carter, has been involved with many films over the years - he was the producer on several movies including Annie, Top Five, The Great Gatsby, Paid in Full, and documentary Fade to Black. His new projects will be announced in the near future. Jay Z founded entertainment company Roc Nation in 2008 and also manages athletes under his Roc Nation Sports banner. He is also part owner of streaming service Tidal, alongside wife Beyonce, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, and several other artists.