Disney General Entertainment’s Onyx Collective will feature a curated collection of projects from creatives of color and marginalized voices. The brand will be presented on Hulu.
Freeform president Tara Duncan is set to lead Onyx Collective. “We’re building a home where creators of color are inspired, empowered and have unparalleled access to reach audiences around the world,” Duncan told Variety. “This artist-first approach will make Onyx Collective synonymous with entertaining, brave and bold ideas told from a distinct point of view. I’m humbled by the opportunity and all of the possibilities.”
The first project under the brand is the Award-winning Sundance documentary Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised). It will be released on Hulu on July 2nd in America, and internationally at an undefined date through Star’s Disney Plus. Produced by Oprah and Lionsgate, The 1619 Project will also launch as part of the Onyx Collective. It is based on the New York Times Magazine, and details the legacy of slavery in America.
“Our industry is immeasurably enriched by the incredible talents of emerging and established creators of color. Launching Onyx Collective allows us to be the best partners to those creators, providing them with the support they need to do their best work,” said Dana Walden, the chairman of entertainment for Walt Disney TV.
Creators such as Natasha Rothwell (SNL, Insecure) will work with Onyx Collective. Black Panther director Ryan Coogler will also collaborate with the brand.
Below, watch the teaser trailer for Summer of Soul, which marks the beginning of Onyx’s curated collection: