Former "True Blood" star Rutina Wesley has landed a starring role in Ava DuVernay’s upcoming OWN series "Queen Sugar." The drama, based on a novel of the same name by Natalie Baszile, is written, directed and executive produced by DuVernay.
The "Selma" helmer tweeted her excitement about Wesley’s casting, calling the actress "talented [and] terrific."
Wesley, who recently appeared in a recurring role on "Hannibal," is the first "Queen Sugar" cast member to be announced. She will play Nova Bordelon, a New Orleans-based journalist and activist. Nova’s life is radically changed when her sister Charley — who has no prior farming experience — returns to Louisiana after living out of state to run the family’s business, a sugarcane farm.
DuVernay co-created "Queen Sugar" with Oprah Winfrey.
[via Deadline]
