---

Virgin Comics to create superhero character on Priyanka Chopra

Virgin Comics has teamed up with Priyanka Chopra to create a new superhero character based on the Bollywood actress.

'I love cartoons and animation, so being able to create my own original superhero with Virgin's amazing group of artists and storytellers is a dream come true. I hope it will capture the imagination of a new generation of Indian youth,' an excited Priyanka said of the venture.

The new content relationship makes Chopra the first Miss World winner to create a superhero property for comic books, animation and games."Priyanka Chopra is an ideal partner as we continue to seek out ways to work with leading creators and icons from around the world," said Virgin Comics CEO Sharad Devarajan.

"She is a real life hero who embodies both sophistication and beauty and together we plan on creating a new superhero character that captures this spirit and continues Virgin's mission of redefining the Indian character entertainment industry."

The new story which is still being developed and currently untitled, deals with an adopted girl who discovers she has a far greater role to play as she is the latest in a line of princesses with great mystical power and a sworn duty to take down evil wherever it lurks.

The story is expected to launch first as a comic book series in 2008. Virgin plans on aggressively working with Chopra to develop the story across numerous platforms including animation games and theatrical live-action film. Percept Talent Management COO Vinita Bangard, whose agency negotiated the relationship, said, "We are thrilled to bring together two strong iconic brands from their own domains (Priyanka Chopra and Virgin Comics). As entertainment continues to evolve and cater to various segments of the demographics, creating a superhero property with Priyanka will ensure reach to its target audience and creates a buzz amongst the readers."