Obamas to produce programs for Netflix
Netflix has secured a deal with former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama to produce series and movies for the streaming service. The former first couple will, according to an announcement Monday from the company, potentially work on scripted and unscripted series as well as docu-series, documentary films and features under the multiyear deal.
“One of the simple joys of our time in public service was getting to meet so many fascinating people from all walks of life, and to help them share their experiences with a wider audience,” President Barack Obama said in the news release. “That’s why Michelle and I are so excited to partner with Netflix — we hope to cultivate and curate the talented, inspiring, creative voices who are able to promote greater empathy and understanding between peoples, and help them share their stories with the entire world.”
“Barack and I have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire us, to make us think differently about the world around us, and to help us open our minds and hearts to others,” Michelle Obama said in the release. She said Netflix “is a natural fit for the kinds of stories we want to share, and we look forward to starting this exciting new partnership.”
It is unknown how much the Obamas’ Netflix agreement is worth. Word of a possible pact between the former U.S. president and first lady surfaced in March, when The New York Times first reported that the couple were in talks with the streaming service on a deal to produce several high-profile projects.