In a significant move highlighting her growing influence as both an Oscar-winning actress and a powerhouse producer, Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon’s JuVee Productions have inked a first-look deal with Universal Global Television (UGT).

The partnership positions JuVee to develop and produce a slate of series for the studio, marking another milestone in Davis’ expansion into behind-the-camera storytelling.

The announcement, which broke on July 7, 2026, highlights JuVee’s commitment to bold, character-driven narratives that reflect diverse human experiences. Under the multi-year agreement, the company will have a dedicated home at UGT for its television projects, following a similar first-look deal JuVee previously secured with other partners like Entertainment One.

The first project greenlit under this new alliance is Pawn, a romantic drama series adapted from an original short story by bestselling author Kennedy Ryan, known for emotionally resonant works such as Before I Let Go and Score. Chantelle M. Wells, a writer and producer recognized for her work on acclaimed series including Yellowjackets, Echo, and Daredevil: Born Again, is attached to adapt the story for television.

Executive producers on Pawn include Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, Andrew Wang, Chantelle Wells, and Kennedy Ryan herself. While plot details remain under wraps, the project is described as a romantic drama, aligning with Ryan’s signature style of exploring complex relationships, resilience, and personal growth amid challenging circumstances.

This deal arrives at a pivotal moment for Davis, who has long championed stories centered on underrepresented voices. JuVee Productions, co-founded by Davis and Tennon, has built a reputation for producing high-quality content that challenges conventions and embraces authenticity.

Their film credits include the critically acclaimed The Woman King, which Davis also starred in, demonstrating the company’s ability to deliver both commercial and artistic success.

Davis, celebrated for her transformative performances in projects like Fences, The Help, and How to Get Away with Murder for which she became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series has increasingly focused on production. Her work behind the scenes amplifies narratives that Hollywood has historically overlooked, particularly those featuring Black women in nuanced, empowering roles.

Public Reactions

Industry insiders view the Universal partnership as a strategic fit. UGT, formed through the combination of Universal Content Productions and Universal International Studios, offers global reach and resources that complement JuVee’s artistic vision.

Beatrice Springborn, who oversees UGT, has emphasized creating a hub for innovative storytelling, making the collaboration a natural alignment of creative and commercial goals.

For Kennedy Ryan, the adaptation represents an exciting evolution of her work into television. Her novels often delve into themes of love, redemption, mental health, and second chances, resonating deeply with readers.

Transitioning Pawn to series format allows for expanded character development and serialized storytelling that could capture the emotional depth fans expect from her books.

Chantelle Wells brings substantial television expertise to the project. Her credits span prestige drama and genre work, including contributions to Marvel’s Echo and staff writing on Yellowjackets. Wells’ ability to craft compelling character arcs and handle intricate ensemble dynamics makes her an ideal choice for adapting Ryan’s intimate storytelling for the screen.

The deal also reflects broader industry trends. As streaming and traditional networks compete for premium content, partnerships with established talent like Davis provide a competitive edge. JuVee’s track record suggests Pawn will prioritize authenticity, strong female perspectives, and emotional intelligence qualities that have defined Davis’ career.

Beyond Pawn, the first-look agreement opens doors for additional series. JuVee has expressed interest in projects spanning various genres while maintaining a focus on humanity’s full spectrum. This could include adaptations of other literary works, original concepts, or stories drawn from real-life experiences that highlight resilience and cultural richness.

Davis and Tennon’s personal and professional partnership has been instrumental to JuVee’s success. Married for over two decades, they have built a company culture centered on collaboration, mentorship, and elevating diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera. Their approach has earned respect throughout the industry, positioning JuVee as a beacon for inclusive storytelling.

Reactions on social media and from industry observers have been overwhelmingly positive. Many celebrate Davis’ continued empire-building, noting how her production efforts create opportunities for other creators while delivering quality entertainment. Some highlight the potential for Pawn to become a standout romantic drama in an era hungry for meaningful relationship stories.

As development on Pawn progresses, anticipation builds around casting, tone, and how the series will translate Ryan’s prose to visual media. With Davis’ involvement, audiences can expect high production values, powerful performances, and a narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.

This partnership solidifies Viola Davis’ transition from acclaimed performer to multifaceted entertainment mogul. It also signals Universal’s commitment to backing talent-driven initiatives with global appeal.

For fans of thoughtful, character-focused television, the future looks promising as JuVee and UGT combine forces to bring fresh stories to screens worldwide.

Viola Davis , American actress and film producer

In an industry often criticized for lacking originality, deals like this rooted in literary adaptation, proven creative teams, and a dedication to excellence offer hope for compelling content ahead. Pawn and future JuVee projects under the Universal banner are poised to make significant waves.