As mentioned last week, Common landed his first re-occurring TV role in the upcoming AMC period-drama “Hell on Wheels.” The role is a bit controversial as Common plays a a newly freed slave who comes west seeking work on the railroad. The rapper-actor finally spoke about his role for the first time.

“The writing of the show was such quality and the character had so much depth to it. This is one of the best characters I’ve come across regarding reading any script in my life,” Common revealed to Beats, Boxing and Mayhem. “To play a freed slave to represent that time was a challenge to me as an actor. Whether it’s TV or not I just want to be a part of quality things. And being on AMC the season doesn’t last as long so I’ll still be able to do films and tour. That made it even a better situation.”

“Common brings a layered intensity to a very complex role,” said AMC programming representative Joel Stillerman. “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.”

The show is set to begin production in August in Alberta, Canada. No official air date has been announced yet. If the show does get picked up by AMC after the pilot episode, it would be Common’s first regularly appearing role in a TV show.