MUMBAI: After signing a production deal with Lionsgate to develop big screen projects, songstress Janet Jackson is all set to become a film producer.

"She has a powerful onscreen presence, with a vast audience, and we believe she will be an equally powerful presence behind the scenes. We are honoured to be able to provide a home for her ideas, passion and immense talent," President of Lionsgate Mike Paseornek has been quoted as saying.

The 44-year-old singer-actress has a passion for storytelling. Said Jackson, "Many people forget that I started out as an actor. I have been fortunate to work in the film industry, though not as much as I would like. I have a passion for storytelling and have been doing it through my music for some time."

Jackson, incidentally, is not new at Lionsgate. She has starred in the studio‘s films like Why Did I Get Married, Why Did I Get Married Too and For Colored Girls.