UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Actor and filmmaker Vin Diesel's One Race Television is partnering with Universal Television on a multi-year, first-look production deal.
One of their first collaborations will be a small-screen series complement to Diesel and writer/director David Twohy's successful sci-fi Riddick franchise.
"In addition to being a huge star for our feature division, Vin is a true creative force as a producer. After sitting down with him and his team at One Race Television, it's clear he will now also be an incredible asset to both the network and our television studio," Jennifer Salke, President of NBC Entertainment, said in a statement Wednesday. "We feel really fortunate to be in business with, not only an international powerhouse, but a truly thoughtful and passionate producer."
Diesel has hired industry veteran Shana C. Waterman as head of television. Waterman will oversee development and production under the pact.
"I have dreamt about expanding the One Race brand into television and now we've found the perfect creative partners... at Universal Television," added Diesel. "Shana is an incredible addition to this team."
"I'm incredibly excited to join the exceptionally smart, innovative team Vin's built at One Race," Waterman said. "Both he and fellow producer Samantha Vincent, alongside their partners at Universal, have grown a formidable global brand ready-made for this diverse and highly creative time in the world of television."
Diesel is the star of Universal Pictures' Fast film franchise.
