Barack and Michelle Obama in Talks with Netflix


Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are in advanced negotiations with Netflix to produce a series of high-profile shows that provide them a global platform after their departure from the White House. The NYT reports that terms of a proposed deal, which is not yet final, Netflix would pay the Obamas for exclusive content that would be available only on the streaming service. The number of episodes and the formats for the shows have not been decided. In one possible show idea, POTUS44 could moderate conversations on topics that dominated his presidency -- healthcare, voting rights, immigration, foreign policy, and climate change. Another program could feature FLOTUS44 on topics, like nutrition and empowering girls. The couple could also lend their brand to documentaries or fictional programming on Netflix that aligns with their beliefs and values. Sources say executives from Apple and Amazon, which have their own streaming services, have also expressed interest in talking with the Obamas about content deals. Obama has particularly close ties to Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer. Sarandos’ wife is Nicole A. Avant, who served as POTUS44’s Ambassador to the Bahamas. “President and Mrs. Obama have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire,” Eric Schultz, a Senior Advisor to the former president, said Thursday. “Throughout their lives, they have lifted up stories of people whose efforts to make a difference are quietly changing the world for the better. As they consider their future personal plans, they continue to explore new ways to help others tell and share their stories.” Netflix has nearly 118 million subscribers around the world. More here.

Tiffany D. Cross