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Storms a brewin': First look at the CW's new superhero series Black Lightning starring Cress Williams

Published: 13:28 EDT, 30 March 2017 | Updated: 19:52 EDT, 30 March 2017

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The CW has released the first photo of Cress Williams as the title character in the superhero drama Black Lightning.

The image shows Williams, 46, suited up as Jefferson Pierce, the reluctant hero who is pulled back into action following his daughter's recent illegal activities.

The character dates back to 1977 and is largely considered the first African-American superhero.

Power up: On Wednesday, The CW released the first photo of Cress Williams as the title character in the superhero drama Black Lightning

The reveal comes as production is underway on the pilot in Atlanta from writer and director Sam Akil.

'Comics were a great way for me to escape,' Akil said.

'I was about 13 when Black Lightning was created, and finally there was a Black Super Hero that gave a damn about our neighborhood and our lives,' he continued.

'I was no stranger to violence, death, hopelessness or the feeling that no one cared about what was happening in my life,' Akil added.

Secret identity: The image shows Williams, 46, suited up as Jefferson Pierce, the reluctant hero who is pulled back into action following his daughter's recent illegal activities

'Resurrecting him at a time in our society when a sense of hope is lacking…Black Lightning will be that hope,' Akil said.

'And in updating the suit, it will signal to a new generation that it’s time to harness and release our power, and become our own Super Heroes,' he continued.

The new costume was designed by Laura Jean Shannon, whose credits include the upcoming Jumanji sequel, The Jungle Book, Blade: Trinity, and Iron Man.

Movin' up: Cress recently starred in another CW drama, Hart of Dixie

Black Lightning also counts Arrow helmer Greg Berlanti and his producing partner Sarah Schechter as executive producers.

The show would become the CW's fifth superhero series, joining Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl and DC's Legends of Tomorrow.

Black Lightning was created by Tony Isabella and Trevor Von Eeden, and first appeared in the comic book Black Lightning #1.

Legends: The show would become the CW's fifth superhero series, joining Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl and DC's Legends of Tomorrow. Stephen Amell, 35, plays the Flash; Pictured 2016