Checkmate Chronicles: Nas and Maurice Ashley Set to Rock TV Screens with Epic Chess Series

(L-R) Nas, Maurice Ashley John Nacion/Karjean Levine/Getty Images

Hold onto your pawns and brace yourselves, folks, because the rap maestro Nas is about to make moves on your TV screens! Yep, you heard it right – the iconic hip-hop heavyweight, now seasoned at a cool 50 years old, is stepping into the world of television. And guess what? He's not just dabbling; he's bringing the thunder with a brand new series that's bound to have you on the edge of your seat.

So, what's Nas cooking up for us this time? Well, hold onto your chess pieces, because he's teaming up with the powerhouse production duo of Mark Canton from "Power" fame and Green Hummingbird Entertainment to bring us a binge-worthy eight-episode series. And what's it about, you ask? None other than the incredible saga of Maurice Ashley, the trailblazing chess maestro who smashed barriers and made history as the first Black International Grandmaster.

But wait, it gets even better! Nas himself spilled the beans to Deadline, expressing his gratitude for being part of this epic project. He's all about bringing Maurice Ashley's awe-inspiring journey to life on the small screen. And you know what? We're here for it!

And it's not just Nas who's hyped about this. Maurice Ashley, the man of the hour, chimed in too, sharing his excitement about seeing his life story unfold for the masses. From his Jamaican roots to the streets of Brooklyn, Ashley's tale is a testament to grit, determination, and the power of chasing your dreams against all odds.

But hold up – this isn't just a solo act. Ashley's quick to point out that his story isn't just about him; it's about the entire community that helped shape him into the chess prodigy he is today. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good underdog story? Maurice Ashley's journey from underdog to grandmaster is the stuff of legends, folks.

And speaking of legends, let's not forget Ashley's accolades. The man became a Grandmaster in '99 – talk about leveling up! But he didn't stop there; he went on to found the Harlem Chess Center, mentoring champions left and right, from Harlem's Raging Rooks to the formidable Dark Knights.

So, why does this story matter? Well, for one, it's a reminder that greatness knows no bounds. Maurice Ashley's triumph is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the occasional unexpected move. And with Nas throwing his weight behind this project, you can bet your last rook that it's going to be a game-changer.

So, folks, get ready to witness history in the making. Nas and Maurice Ashley are about to take us on a journey that's as thrilling as it is inspiring. Buckle up, because this is one ride

you won't want to miss!

"Rapper Nas graces the opening night of 'X: The Life and Times Of Malcolm X' at The Metropolitan Opera in New York City, November 03, 2023." Credit: John Nacion/Getty Images

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