Netflix is expanding its superhero output beyond its Marvel shows, with the streaming service tapping Michael B. Jordan (Fantastic Four, Black Panther) to star in and produce a new ten-part superhero drama series entitled Raising Dion.
The series will be based upon a 2015 short from music video director Dennis Liu and comic book of the same name, which focusses on a mother raising her young, super-powered son. Take a look at the short here…
The series will follow “the story of a woman named Nicole Reese, who raises her son Dion after the death of her husband Mark (Jordan). The normal dramas of raising a son as a single mom are amplified when Dion starts to manifest several magical, superhero-like abilities. Nicole must now keep her son’s gifts secret with the help of Mark’s best friend Pat, and protect Dion from antagonists out to exploit him while figuring out the origin of his abilities.”
“I started this project many years ago because I wanted to see more diverse representation on film and television and I’m excited to partner with Netflix, who I know shares that commitment,” said Liu. “More than ever, we need more stories told from different points of view and my hope with Raising Dion is to create a cinematic experience for all families that will lift your spirits and make you laugh and cry.”
“We haven’t seen this type of superhero story before — an origin myth full of imagination, wonder and adventure, all grounded in the experiences of a modern single mother,” added Cindy Holland, VP, Original Content for Netflix. “Michael B. Jordan is an exciting and dynamic talent, and I’m excited to see him, MACRO, Carol and the team translate Dennis’ unique vision to television.”
Jordan and Liu will produce the series with Michael Green (American Gods), Charles D. King (Fences) and showrunner Carol Barber (UnReal).