Obama in talks with Netflix to produce exclusive shows

World
Europe

Former US president Barack Obama is in talks with the US-based streaming service magnate Netflix to produce a series of exclusive shows along with his wife Michelle, the New York Times reported citing sources familiar with the discussions.

Former US president Barack Obama at an unveiling ceremony for portraits of him and his wife Michelle at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, February 12, 2018. /VCG Photo

According to the paper, instead of taking to the stage to directly respond to his successor Donald Trump, Obama would appear on-camera as a moderator on topics that once dominated his eight years in the White House, including health care, immigration and climate change. He could also potentially serve as a producer for the program highlighting inspirational American stories.

Michelle Obama honors the 2018 School Counselor of Year at a special celebration at the Kennedy Center on February 2. /VCG Photo

The show might also feature Michelle Obama elaborating on the same issues she focused on during her time as the first lady, such as nutrition.

“President and Mrs. Obama have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire,” Eric Schultz, a senior adviser to the former president told the New York Times, adding “throughout their lives, they have lifted up stories of people whose efforts to make a difference are quietly changing the world for the better.”

Obama and Michelle at an unveiling ceremony for their portraits at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, February 12, 2018. /VCG Photo

While giving no direct comments on the television production deal, Schultz indicated that the Obamas would continue to “explore new ways to help others tell and share their stories” as part of their future plans.

Obama appears in Netflix's new interview series "My Next Guest Needs no Introduction." /Netflix Photo

The numbers and format of the episodes have not yet been finalized as “advanced negotiations” are still underway, according the NYT, and it also remains unclear how much money the Obamas would be paid for the exclusive content on the major streaming site known for its hit politically-themed drama series "House of Cards" and "The Crown."

Netflix has not responded to the possible deal so far.

The signing, though still yet to be accomplished, has already caused a stir among netizens with some looking forward to the former president’s new role in the TV broadcast industry, while others are calling for a boycott of Netflix for what they call political propaganda.

Twitter screenshot.

“I'd be happy to watch this show. I did see his interview with Letterman on Netflix, and I realized how much I missed such a calm, thoughtful, and engaging exchange of ideas between two sane, articulate people,” Twitter user @Octobertraveler noted.

Twitter screenshot.

“If Obama is colluding with Netflix to create a propaganda Machine, it is time for EVERYONE to boycott Netflix,” another user @Jesus1stUSA2nd claimed.

The establishment of a partnership with Obama, is seen by many media outlets as a major coup on Netflix’s efforts in competing for original content amid stiff competition with its rivals, including Apple and Amazon, whose streaming services also reportedly expressed interest in reaching out to the former president, the NYT reported.

Obama now has over 101 million followers on Twitter. /Twitter screenshot

(With inputs from agencies)