{blackbabes} Kerry Washington to Star in Shonda Rhimes Pilot

Kerry Washington will headline Shonda Rhimes' new ABC drama pilot, Deadline reports.

Based on famous crisis management consultant Judy Smith, In Crisis follows the life and work of a professional fixer, Olivia Price, and her dysfunctional staff. Washington, who was most recently seen in For Colored Girls, will play Price, who's described as a formidable and fearless woman.

Actor-choreographer Columbus Short (Stomp the Yard) has also been cast as a lawyer on Price's team.

Rhimes, who wrote the script, will serve as executive producer, alongside fellow Grey's Anatomy executive producer Betsy Beers.

Smith, who has guided such public figures as Monica Lewinsky and Michael Vick, will co-executive-produce the project.