A University graduate plays a major role in the first scripted Black Entertainment Television network series, premiering Tuesday.

Henry Cameron “Hadjii” Hand, an alumnus from Brunswick, created a half-hour comedy called “Somebodies” that was shot in Athens during the summer. Hadjii wrote, co-produced and stars in the show.

The series is based on the critically acclaimed film of the same name, which competed in the 2006 Sundance Film Festival.

“[The film festival] was a great experience, really a stepping stone to get my career off the ground,” Hadjii said.

Hadjii plays Scottie, a black student coming of age at a large university who has the help of a girlfriend, roommates, family members and a minister.

Many students can relate to “Somebodies” because it is about college in general, Hadjii said.

“The series is about the transition into the real world,” he said. “When you watch it, you’ll think about being in college again. You have to watch and see.”

Hadjii developed the idea during his senior year screenwriting class in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, taught by professor Nate Kohn.

The final project for the course was to write an episode for a sitcom.

Kohn, who has known his former student for 10 years, was one of many producers on the project.

Students and graduates also interned and worked in production for the 10-part series.

“I feel blessed because it is so rare to get material that is smart and funny,” said Kaira Akita, a University graduate from Atlanta. Akita portrays Diva, Scottie’s girlfriend in the series.

“This show is something people have never seen before,” Akita said. “Hadjii is a pioneer.”

The sitcom’s production supported local Athens businesses, teaming up with ABC Printing, Agora, Chastain’s, Potter’s House and other small business owners.

Some scenes were filmed at the Melting Point and Terrapin Brewery.

The comedy has been heavily promoted on urban television stations, Kohn said.

Hadjii and Akita will be guests on BET’s music television show “106 & Park” on Tuesday to endorse the show.

Two back-to-back episodes will debut Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. “Somebodies” will air regularly Tuesdays at 10:30 p.m.

Additionally, Hadjii wrote the book, “Don’t Let My Mama Read This: A Southern Fried Memoir.”

The book is in stores now and is based on Hadjii’s childhood.

There will be a book signing at Borders in the Colonial Beechwood Promenade Shopping Center on Sept. 16 at 8 p.m., followed by a “Somebodies” viewing party a few doors down at Buffalo’s from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Hadjii said he hopes “Somebodies” gets picked up for another season, but he said he is satisfied with his finished product.

“I approach one project at a time,” he said. “I’m involved in several projects.”

For more on Hadjii’s projects, visit www.myspace.com/hadjiilab.