Michael B. Jordan Joins Legal Drama

Michael B. Jordan (Fruitvale Station, Chronicle) has signed on to star in the film adaptation of Bryan Stevenson's memoir, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, directed by Destin Cretton (Short Term 12), who will co-write the screenplay with Andrew Lanham (The Glass Castle), Variety reports. The film will tell the story of one of Stevenson's first cases, the defense of Walter McMillian, a black man who served six years on death row for a crime he didn't commit, due to evidence suppression by the prosecution.

“We are privileged to bring Bryan’s memoir to the world as a major motion picture,” said Gabriel and Daniel Hammond, Broad Green Pictures CEO and chief creative officer. “Destin is such a collaborative, thoughtful and talented filmmaker, he is going to inspire the world with this powerful true story. He’s part of an amazing team alongside Gil, Michael and Andrew, and together they will make a historic film.”

Cretton (pictured above) said, “Bryan’s story hit me harder than anything I’ve read in a long time. I’m humbled and honored to have the opportunity to bring his story to the screen. With Michael B., Gil [Netter], Andrew and the Broad Green team on board, I’m confident we’re going to make something very special.” Gil Netter (The Blind Side, Life of Pi) is set to produce. Jordan will be starring in Fox's The Fantastic Four and the Rocky spinoff Creed, which come out this August and November, respectively.