Wearing a different hat: Netflix is frontrunner to co-produce content with Obama

When reports of former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle venturing into the video streaming sphere first emerged, the first question that came up was what would be the nature of the content they produce.

Well, it’s unlikely that the former Democratic Party leader would come up with the kind of popular themes trending on various channels. When the charismatic politician takes up a career after leading the world’s most happening country, it should be something different and socially relevant.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that Obama is in talks with video streamer Netflix to create a series of premium shows, a venture that would provide him a platform to address various global issues.

It’s natural that when a person of Obama’s caliber enters the corporate world the who’s who of the industry would seek to take part in it. With Netflix’s rivals Apple and Amazon entering the scene, the former POTUS and first lady have more options to weigh. For Apple and Amazon, partnerships in their original content platforms are an integral part of the business model.

Meanwhile, under the terms of the potential deal with Netflix, Obama and Michelle will receive payments for their video content to be made available to the 118 million subscribers of Netflix exclusively.

Speculations are rife that the programs might assume a political color in the long run, considering the nation’s divided stance on Presidents Trump’s controversial policies. However, sources close to the latest development say the tone of Obama’s shows would be educational and informative.

Barack Obama is reportedly in talks with video streamer Netflix to create a series of premium shows

It is worth noting that hitherto Obama has wisely stayed away from directly commenting on Trump’s conservative policies, despite having a huge fan following in the social media. He has pointed out the ill-effects of manipulative journalism on the country’s democracy, often in veiled reference to news channels like Fox News.

A senior adviser to the former President in an interview said the other day, “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.”

It is likely that the shows would go a long way in taking Obama’s thoughts and ideas to a much larger audience than those who follow his social media posts, in a more effective way.

The commercial details of the deal are yet to be disclosed as the discussions are currently in their nascent stage.