One of the biggest names to come out of the Nashville-style hot chicken trend of the past decade actually started in a California parking lot. Now, the 8-year-old fast food chain is parlaying its early business acumen into a brand deal that could be worth a staggering $1 billion.

Jackson, former California first lady Maria Shriver, Boston Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner, and rapper Drake, and it consistently placed among the best hot chicken restaurants ( we ranked it #2 in L.A.) and among the most successful franchises.

The private equity firm is in advanced talks for the acquisition, according to the Wall Street Journal. Roark Capital also owns Subway, Arby's, Jimmy Johns, Baskin-Robbins and Car