Viola Davis Circling New HBO Drama Series

Viola Davis is reported to be circling the lead role in a new untitled HBO series. Dee Rees and writer-producer Margaret Nagle are in negotiations to write the story which Rees may also direct, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

The show focuses on the corruption of a city seen through the eyes of the headmaster of a prep school. Most of the principal deals are not yet final, but John Lesher seems to be set to executive produce with Davis and Nagle.Viola Davis was awarded the 2001 Tony Award for her work in King Hedley II, and the 2010 Tony Award for Fences. She has also received two Drama Desk Awards, for King Headley II and, in 2004, for her work in an off-Broadway production of Intimate Apparel.

Davis has also had roles in numerous films, including three films by Steven Soderbergh (Out of Sight, Solaris, and Traffic). Her television work includes a recurring role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit; a starring role in the short-lived Traveler; and a special guest appearance in "Badge", a Law & Order: Criminal Intent episode.

Davis can currently be seen in theatre's in 'The Help.'

Rees wrote and directed Pariah, which premiered at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. Focus Features picked up worldwide rights to the drama, which will now play the Toronto film festival program before being release in late fall. Rees is also writing the 'Bolo' for Focus.

Nagle has been a writer and producer on 'Boardwalk Empire' and 'Side Order of Life.' She also wrote the Emmy-winning HBO movie 'Warm Springs.'

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