USHER - USHER TO MAKE MOVE-STARRING DEBUT

USHER is set to make his feature-starring debut in a movie described as an R+B version of EMINEM's gritty hit 8 MILE.

The 25-year-old YEAH! singer, who will also executive produce the movie, will play a young man from the streets who goes through a period of self-discovery through his music.

MIRAMAX co-chairman and DIMENSION head BOB WEINSTEIN says in a statement, "Usher has clearly proven himself as a musical superstar. We have a longstanding relationship and know this film will showcase all of his talents in his first starring role."

Usher has previously taken on small roles in THE FACULTY and SHE'S ALL THAT, as well as TV series SOUL FOOD.