Barack and Michelle Obama Are Developing Their Own Netflix Series
Just when we thought Netflix couldn’t get any bigger, they really “go high.” Ex-President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are reportedly in talks to develop their own Netflix content that would provide “an unfiltered method of communication with the public.” You can already feel the tweetstorm brewing.
The New York Times reports that the as-yet-unfinished deal would allow the Obamas to craft “a series of high-profile shows,” and potentially feature Barack moderating conversations on topics such as health care, voting rights, immigration, foreign policy and climate change. Michelle Obama might similarly craft content around issues close to her own advocacy, while the deal could also see the pair endorsing “documentaries or fictional programming on Netflix that align with their beliefs and values.”
And while the report does refer to Barack Obama’s content addressing issues that “have continued to divide a polarized American electorate” during Donald Trump’s tenure, it adds “Mr. Obama does not intend to use his Netflix shows to directly respond to President Trump or conservative critics.” Said Obama’s senior adviser Eric Schultz of the news:
President and Mrs. Obama have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire. 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.
Amazon and Apple have also reportedly approached Barack Obama regarding content deals. Worth noting – Obama appeared as the first guest on David Letterman’s Netflix series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, in which the former President emphasized the danger of conservative media outlets misleading their audiences.
We’ll have more as Netflix finalizes the deal, so stay tuned.
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