John Cena inks development deal with Leftfield Entertainment

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Cena, who will host the ESPYS Wednesday, will co-create and produce unscripted projects for TV and digital platforms.

John Cena is ready to expand his TV portfolio.

The wrestler and host of Fox’s American Grit has signed a development deal with Leftfield Entertainment, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.

Through the pact, Cena and Leftfield will co-create and produce unscripted projects for TV and digital platforms. The deal expands Cena’s relationship with Leftfield, which produces his Fox reality show that debuted in April. In addition to hosting the military-inspired competition series, Cena also executive produces the series.

Cena and Leftfield are also already in development on several projects, including series set in the worlds of real estate and construction. Cena will exec produce through his Hard Nocks South production banner.

“Whether I’m in the ring for WWE or on a TV or film set, I approach all of my work the same way – with focus, authenticity and total commitment,” Cena said. “I’m eager to bring that same work ethic to the team at Leftfield, and to create new kinds of programming that can inspire and push people to be their best. I’m living proof of what you can accomplish when that happens.”

Added Leftfield Entertainment CEO David George, “There’s nowhere you can go with John Cena without eliciting respect, pure joy and excitement from everyone he meets. Beyond his physical strength and presence, his humor, strength of character and genuine desire to give back always comes through. That’s an inspiring place from which to create entertainment content, so we’re extremely proud and happy to be in business with John.”

The news comes hours ahead of Cena’s inaugural turn as ESPYS host. The 15-time WWE World Heavyweight Champion is coming off a breakout 2015 that included film roles in Trainwreck, Sisters and Daddy’s Home. Cena, who is repped by ICM Partners, is next set to host the Teen Choice Awards on Fox in August.

Cena is the latest name to sign a deal with Leftfield Entertainment. Bethenny Frankel signed an overall deal with Leftfield last year, and Good Morning America’s Lara Spencer inked a producing partnership with Leftfield in June.

Fully acquired by ITV last year, Leftfield Entertainment’s group produces various unscripted projects such asPawn Stars, The Real Housewives of New Jersey and Killing Fields, among others.

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