Do you need more Michael B. Jordan in your life? I’m not even going to wait around for your answer, because it’s definitely a loud and confident “Yes!” After taking the television and movie universes by storm, the actor is officially joining on to an upcoming new Netflix project. The streaming service has ordered a 10-episode superhero sci-fi drama titled Raising Dion, based on a comic book and short film by Dennis Liu. Michael is set to be a part of the show as an actor and executive producer.
“The series revolves around a young, recently widowed African-American mother who discovers her son has magical powers,” according to Variety. “Her struggle with being a single mother is compounded by her need to teach Dion how to handle his supernatural skills and her search for answers about the source of his abilities, with help from her late husband’s best friend.”
Michael’s onscreen role will be that of young Dion’s late father Mark — and his presence in the show is sure to get it the recognition it deserves.
“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, creator Dennis Liu shared. “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.”
Netflix VP of Original Content Cindy Holland is already looking forward to seeing how the team will come together on this project, which tackles a story we have never encountered on the screen before.
“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,” she shared in a statement. “Michael B. Jordan is an exciting and dynamic talent, and I’m excited to see him, Macro, Carol [Barbee] and the team translate Dennis’ unique vision to television.”
We’re all here for creators putting exciting, original, and thought-provoking content out there, and this series will definitely be added to our must-watch list!
In preparation for the series, you can watch Dennis Liu’s short film of the same name here: