Rapper K'naan wants to tell Somali-American tale in HBO show

In this Oct. 12, 2016 photo, Somali actors and film crew wait outside a home in Minneapolis for their role in filming of the proposed HBO series "Mogadishu, Minnesota." Somali-Canadian rapper, K'naan, who is directing and writing the proposed series, wants to tell a story of an immigrant coming to America and trying to adjust. (AP Photo/Jim Mone) (The Associated Press)

prev next

In this Oct. 12, 2016 photo, a movie crew gathers outside a home in Minneapolis for filming of the proposed HBO series "Mogadishu, Minnesota." Somali-Canadian rapper, K'naan, who is directing and writing the proposed series, wants to tell a story of an immigrant coming to America and trying to adjust. (AP Photo/Jim Mone) (The Associated Press)

In this Oct. 22, 2016 photo, K'naan poses in Minneapolis. The Somali-Canadian rapper, who is directing and writing the proposed HBO series "Mogadishu, Minnesota, wants to tell the story of an immigrant coming to America and trying to adjust. (AP Photo/Jeff Baenen) (The Associated Press)

MINNEAPOLIS – Somali-Canadian rapper K'naan (kay-NAHN') wants to tell a story he's familiar with in his proposed HBO series "Mogadishu, Minnesota."

K'naan wants to set and film the show in Minneapolis, home to the largest Somali community in the United States. But he has run into opposition from fellow Somalis who worry the series will focus on young men who have gone overseas to join terrorist groups.

The 39-year-old Somali immigrant says he came up with the idea of the family drama about three years ago.

But opponents have raised concerns about the series' original title "The Recruiters" and the involvement of Academy Award-winning director Kathryn Bigelow as executive producer.

Filming of the show's pilot recently wrapped in Minneapolis. A decision on whether HBO will greenlight the series is expected next year.