By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices
Say what you want about her, but Tyra Banks is about her money.
The former supermodel turned television personality has signed a long-term deal with Warner Bros. Television, in which she will develop scripted shows, reality fare, movies, and straight to DVD projects.
The Inglewood, Los Angeles native is also said to be hiring a new executive team to run her production company Bankable Productions – producers of the wildly popular reality series 'America's Next Top Model' (currently producing its 10th cycle) and her daily talk show 'The Tyra Banks Show.'
"My new deal with Warner Bros. represents the growth of an already successful relationship we have with the Warner Bros. family," she said. "Clearly Warner Bros. understands my brand and the reach and demand of our audience. As we move forward, we'll be able to provide entertaining content that is both fun and compelling for film and TV."
The first direct-to-DVD project under the deal would be an adaptation of the best-selling 'Clique' series of teen novels -- from Alloy Entertainment and publisher Little, Brown & Company that has sold over millions of copies.
Production on the first two films in the series is expected to begin in January 2008.
"Tyra has established herself as one of television's most versatile talents, speaking to young women in a relatable way through her highly successful talk show and 'Top Model,'" said Warner Bros. Television President Peter Roth. "We are thrilled to continue the Studio's relationship with her, and we look forward to translating her vision to the scripted arena."
Apparently, the legendary Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition cover girl said that she was looking to create shows "that attract [her] core audience" and that are "aspirational and empowering."
"But we're going to have a lot of fun with those messages, too," she pointed out.
THATS GOOD FOR HER SHE IS DOING HER THING!!!
-- Edited by One and only at 12:57, 2007-11-04
