Kirk Franklin Expands Entertainment Company With Fo Yo Soul Film and Television

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International gospel superstar, Kirk Franklin has teamed with producer/writer Bobby Smith Jr. and producer/casting director Robi Reed to form Fo Yo Soul Film and Television, a new full service production company that will focus on inspirational film and television endeavors. Smith and Reed will serve as Co-Presidents, and Carla M. Williams is the Executive Vice-President.

Sold on a strong pitch by Smith to Lions Gate, the company’s first project will be Church Boy, which will be developed with a plan to distribute in late 2007. Franklin will star as himself in the feature length biopic that chronicles his rise from the mean streets of the inner city to finding Jesus and eventually becoming an international gospel superstar. The studio is actively looking for a writer.

The movie will be produced by Franklin, Smith and Reed, with Franklin creating original music for the soundtrack. Wil Young will co-produce. Additionally, Lions Gate has brought on Paul Hall (Pride) to produce as well. John Sacchi and Charisse Nesbit are overseeing the project for Lions Gate.

On the television side, the company is developing a Kirk Franklin concert television special, as well as a daytime talk show, which Franklin would host. “Since film and television are two of the most powerful mediums, it is my passion to use them to reach people for a greater purpose,” says Franklin. “Fo Yo Soul Film and Television seeks to leave a positive mark on both the film and television industries and teaming up with Bobby Smith and Robi Reed gives validity to that goal.”

“With Kirk Franklin’s Fo Yo Soul Film and Television, we intend to offer fare to the millions worldwide who are seeking entertainment rich with positive and inspirational messages -- messages that are akin to the spirit that embodies Franklin’s spectacular and unique brand of internationally recognized music,” says Smith. “We are actively seeking projects that can do just that.”