Ricky Martin to star in NBC show, specials

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., July 30 (UPI) -- Universal Television says it has signed a deal with U.S. singer-actor Ricky Martin to develop his first network television series and specials.

The announcement was made Monday by Bela Bajaria, executive vice president of Universal Television.

"Ricky is an iconic superstar who is as talented as he is popular," Bajaria said in a statement. "Whether he's performing before sold-out concert crowds, or starring on Broadway, where he is currently playing to standing-room only in 'Evita,' Ricky connects with his audience in a very palpable way -- and we are thrilled that he will be adding TV star to his incredible resume."

The Grammy Award winner is a former member of the Latino pop group Menudo and successful solo artist who has acted on TV's "General Hospital" and in Broadway's "Les Miserables."