NEW YORK, July 27 (UPI) -- Rapper-actor Common has been cast in one of the lead roles of the drama pilot "Hell on Wheels," AMC said Tuesday.

"Hell on Wheels" is a western about the building of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Common most recently starred in the 2010 movie "Just Wright," playing a basketball player who falls in love with his trainer, played by Queen Latifah. He also appeared in the hit comedy "Date Night" with Steve Carell and Tina Fey. His other film credits include "Terminator Salvation," "American Gangster" and "Smokin' Aces."

"Hell on Wheels" marks Common's first leading role on television.

"Common brings a layered intensity to a very complex role," Joel Stillerman, senior vice president of AMC's programming, production and digital content, said in a statement. "This part required someone who can transcend the stereotypes of the period and bring the character to life in a truly unique way, and he brings that. We are thrilled to have him join our cast."

Common will take on the role of Elam, a freed slave who goes west seeking work on the railroad, as well as his place in the world. As a half-black, half-white man, he does not completely belong to either world, the network said in a synopsis of the show.