Obamas to produce shows for Netflix
Barack and Michelle Obama have maintained a relatively low profile since leaving the White House. But that could be changing now that they have agreed to produce original programming for Netflix.
The Los Gatos-based streaming giant announced Monday that the former president and first lady have entered a multiyear deal that covers a diverse mix of content, including the potential for scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features. The content will be produced by Higher Ground Productions, a company recently founded by the Obamas.
“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,” the former president said in a statement released by Netflix. “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.”
Obama has had a previous experience with Netflix, appearing on “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman.”
The former first lady added a statement about how she felt that Netflix was a good partner for the projects they have: “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,” she said.
Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement the Obamas “are uniquely positioned to discover and highlight stories of people who make a difference in their communities and strive to change the world for the better.”
The New York Times first reported in March that the Obamas were in talks to sign the streaming deal. The story said the Obama projects are not intended to address President Donald Trump or conservatives. Instead, it would focus on “inspirational content.”