Obamas sign deal to produce Netflix films

Washington: Former President Barack Obama formally announced on Monday a multiyear production deal with Netflix in which he and the former First Lady, Michelle Obama, will produce TV shows and films for the streaming service.

The deal will give Obama an international television platform during his post-presidency, allowing him to reach millions of people in the US and internationally. The couple has created "Higher Ground Productions," a company to produce content for Netflix.

The former President has told associates that he does not intend to use the new platform to wage a campaign against his successor in the Oval Office, or to fight against hardline outlets like Fox News.

Instead, a release from Netflix said the Obamas will produce "scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features" that highlight issues and themes the President pursued during his eight years in office.

"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," 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."

Obama has remained largely quiet since leaving office about a year-and-a-half ago, despite calls from some of his supporters to be more active in fighting back against Trump's assault on the Obama legacy.

The former President and his advisers have rejected that approach, believing that Obama would become a convenient political target for the current President. As a result, the Netflix deal is unlikely to be a vehicle for any sharp, partisan rhetoric by the former President, officials said.

NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE