Emmy-nominated actress and comedian Yvonne Orji, known for her role as Molly on HBO's "Insecure," is bringing a powerful story to television. Orji has secured the rights to develop a series based on "Transcendent Kingdom," the acclaimed novel by Ghanaian-American author Yaa Gyasi.
"Transcendent Kingdom" follows Gifty, a Ghanaian-American neuroscience student at Stanford University. Gifty's research on addiction is deeply personal, mirroring the struggles of her brother who died from heroin addiction and her mother who descended into depression after his death. Raised in a devout household, Gifty now grapples with her faith as she confronts grief, alienation, and the search for meaning.
This project marks a new chapter for Orji, who leveraged her two-year first-look deal with Sony Pictures Television to develop scripted content. The deal allows her to create both dramas and comedies for streaming services and cable networks.
Orji expressed her passion for the project: "I've been chasing this story for four years and I won't stop until it's on screens worldwide! African stories deserve to be told, invested in, and seen by a global audience. Believe in us!"