Former President of the United States Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama are close to a deal with streaming giant, Netflix.
The deal would provide a platform for the Obamas to produce shows highlighting inspirational stories and topics close to their hearts, according to the New York Times.
Advisor to the Obamas, Eric Schultz, told the Times:
“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. As they consider their future personal plans, they continue to explore new ways to help others tell and share their stories.”
Barack Obama does not intend to use it to directly respond to current President Donald Trump or be a response to conservative news outlets like Fox News or Breitbart, but instead as a global platform.
Possible show ideas include Barack Obama moderating discussions on topics dividing America, Michelle Obama featuring topics that she championed during the White House, or documentaries or fictional programming.
Reportedly Amazon and Apple were also interested in striking a deal with the Obamas, but it looks like Netflix got the edge.
Since leaving the White House in January 2017, the Obamas have kept a low profile, but not completely silent. They are both currently writing memoirs which they are getting paid millions for. They recently unveiled their official portraits at the Smithsonian, and Barack Obama was the inaugural guest on David Letterman's new Netflix show.
In the show, Barack Obama expressed his concerns for the way media plays into our lives. "If you watch Fox News, you are living on a different planet than if you are listening to NPR."
This deal could be the Obamas' way of fighting against this new wave.
Netflix plans to spend $8 billion this year on programming.