Mary J Blige to topline 'Power Book II: Ghost'

Actor-singer Mary J Blige will headline the cast of "Power Book II: Ghost" series on Starz. The new show is a spin-off to the network's hit critically acclaimed series "Power", according to The Hollywood Reporter.

At Television Critics Association summit, series creator and co-showrunner Courtney A Kemp revealed that the "Power Book II: Ghost" is the "first of several" prequel series. The show will "continue the journey of some of 'Power's' most controversial characters," Kemp added.

Blige, 48, later joined Kemp, executive producer Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson and the cast onstage after the announcement. The actor said she has been a fan of the original show since the beginning.

"Power", set in New York City, follows James St Patrick (Omari Hardwick), a ruthless drug-dealer under the nickname "Ghost", who wishes to leave the criminal world in order to support his legitimate business interests as a nightclub owner. James aims to balance these two lives, while avoiding police capture, and looks to resolve his personal life as his marriage crumbles.

The show also features Naturi Naughton, Michael Rainey Jr, Donesha Hopkins, Joseph Sikora, Lela Loren, and Jackson. It's sixth and final season is set to premiere on August 25 on Starz.