Justice to get own Nickelodeon show

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Nickelodeon announced Wednesday it has signed 15-year-old U.S. actress Victoria Justice to an overall talent and music deal.

The announcement was made by Paula Kaplan, Nickelodeon's executive vice president of talent and West Coast general manager.

As part of the new pact, Nickelodeon, in partnership with Sony BMG Music Entertainment, is developing a comedy series as a starring vehicle for Justice.

Created and directed by Dan Schneider, whose other shows include "iCarly," "Zoey 101" and "Drake & Josh," the new project will be set in a modern day school for the performing arts and feature original music.

The network also said it has tapped the former "Zoey 101" lead for a co-starring role in the upcoming Nickelodeon original television movie, "Spectacular," which is set in the competitive world of show choirs.

"Victoria is a rare kind of actress. She's beautiful, yet takes a fearless approach to acting," Kaplan said in a statement. "Kids loved her on 'Zoey 101' because she could boldly take a pie in the face or just as easily tackle a dramatic scene. It is this versatility combined with her musical talent and real-girl qualities that make her someone we are excited about."