Audio Video News

President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama have entered into a unique multi-year agreement with Netflix to produce a “diverse mix of content, including the potential for scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features.”

The deal is the first-of-its-kind for a former U.S. president.

“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,” President Obama said in a statement. “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.”

The Obamas have established Higher Ground Productions as the entity under which they will produce content. Under the deal the former President and First Lady will appear on camera as hosts or moderators and work behind the camera on projects, according to a CNN report.

Content from the new venture is expected to launch in 2019 and will be available to all 125 million member Netflix households in 190 countries.

“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,” Mrs. Obama said in a statement. “Netflix’s unparalleled service is a natural fit for the kinds of stories we want to share, and we look forward to starting this exciting new partnership.”

When talks between the Obama’s and Netflix were first reported on earlier this year, The New York Times described potential shows with Mr. Obama “moderating conversations on topics that dominated his presidency" and “Mrs. Obama on topics, like nutrition, that she championed in the White House."

“Barack and Michelle Obama are among the world’s most respected and highly-recognized public figures and 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 Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos. “We are incredibly proud they have chosen to make Netflix the home for their formidable storytelling abilities.”