Quite the superstar team-up…
Perhaps inspired by his recent Netflix experience as the debut interviewee on My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman, Barack Obama has signed a production deal with the streaming giant alongside his wife Michelle.
The pair have entered into a “multi-year agreement” to produce films and series for Netflix, potentially including scripted television shows, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and original feature films.
Back in March, the New York Times reported that the former President of the United States was in talks for such a move.
“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,” said Barack Obama following the announcement.
“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.”
Michelle Obama, meanwhile, praised Netflix’s “unparalleled service” when discussing details of the new partnership.
“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.” said Michelle Obama.
Together, the husband-and-wife team will oversee Higher Ground Productions, though exact details of what kind of material to expect has yet to be revealed.
Welcoming the superstar team-up, Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos hailed two of the world’s “most respected and highly-recognised public figures.”
“They 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,” said Sarandos.
“We are incredibly proud they have chosen to make Netflix the home for their formidable storytelling abilities.”
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