Report: Obama in Talks to Create Shows for Netflix
The former president's next move could take him to Netflix.
Barack Obama is reportedly in talks with Netflix.(Chesnot/Getty Images)
Former President Barack Obama is reportedly in talks with Netflix to produce a series of high-profile shows.
The talks, described by The New York Times as "advanced negotiations," are centered on providing Obama "a global platform after his departure from the White House," The Times reported Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Under the terms of a proposed deal, Netflix would pay Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama for exclusive content on the streaming service. The content would only be available on Netflix for its nearly 118 million global subscribers, according to The Times. The deal is not yet final, and the financial details surrounding the proposal have not been reported.
The Obamas have kept a relatively low profile since leaving the White House in January last year. Barack Obama has given speeches domestically and abroad and the couple has appeared at events – including the recent unveiling of their official portraits. They have also inked a deal with Penguin Random House to write highly anticipated memoirs.
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The former president will reportedly not use his Netflix shows to respond directly to President Donald Trump or to conservative critics. The programming could instead highlight inspirational stories or focus on topics that dominated Obama's presidency.
Per The Times, Apple and Amazon executives have also "expressed interest" in talking with Obama about content deals. The companies have their own streaming services in direct competition with Netflix.
Megan Trimble, Associate Editor, Social Media
Megan Trimble is an associate editor of social media for the News division at U.S. News & World... READ MORE »Megan Trimble is an associate editor of social media for the News division at U.S. News & World Report. You can follow her on Twitter, connect with her on LinkedIn or send her an email at mtrimble@usnews.com.
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