Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have signed a multi-year deal with Netflix to produce films and TV shows. Their content will reach more than 190 countries.
A global deal
A global production deal like this was almost unimaginable just 10 years ago when the TV market was regionally divided and controlled by strong gatekeepers. Netflix continues to redefine TV distribution, which has helped secure a deal with Barack and Michelle Obama. Their content will be available in over 190 countries from day 1.
The partnership has been brewing for some time. Apple was rumored to also be interested in signing with the Obama couple to add to the pool of content that the company is currently creating.
The Obama couple has signed a “multi-year agreement” to produce a “diverse mix of content, including the potential for scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features” under a newly established company called Higher Ground Productions that will sell the content exclusively to Netflix.
- “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. “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.”
Netflix has 125 million subscribers across 190 countries and is estimated to have more than 310 viewers worldwide.
- Source: Netflix
