LL Cool J Signs Multi-picture Deal

Lions Gate Films has signed a multi-picture deal with LL Cool J, whose first project will be an urban version of "Fatal Attraction.

The projects -- budgeted at less than $10 million, similar to Lions Gate's deal with actor/playwright Tyler Perry ("Diary of a Mad Black Woman") -- are looking to serve the black female market, which Lions Gate thinks is an underserved and often ignored segment.

In “Fatal Attraction,” LL - born James Todd Smith - will play a man who gets into serious trouble when he engages in an extramarital affair.

Lions Gate's President of Production, Michael Paseornek, told the Hollywood Reporter: "What we are looking to do with LL is to get high-quality material that will attract talent. We are not looking to develop gimmicks but make real movies. LL has a huge following and is very credible with women."

Lions Gate plans to develop two other projects at the same time as "Fatal Attraction." Under the multiyear deal, LL will receive production credit on each film. "This is the perfect transition for me as I can now pour all my energy and creative juices into this fresh and exciting producing venture," LL Cool J says.