Actor Ruth Negga is set to play the lead role in a limited series based on the life of Josephine Baker, one of the most influential female entertainers of the 20th century.

Titled  Josephine, the drama series is in development at ABC Signature.

 According to reports, Negga also serves as executive producer on the project.

Millicent Shelton is directing the series from a script penned by Dee Harris-Lawrence.

Josephine is described as a "raw and unflinching look at the force of nature that was Josephine Baker, the biggest Black female artist of her time."     "From international superstar and decorated WWII spy, to civil rights activist and flawed mother, 'Josephine' delves into the raw talent, sexual fluidity, struggles and bold life of an icon," the logline reads.

Negga, Harris-Lawrence and Shelton executive produce with The Springhill Company.