Spartacus scribe DeKnight rises at Netflix

Global streaming giant Netflix has continued its recruitment of major TV writing talent by signing a multi-year deal with Spartacus writer Steven S DeKnight.

Steven S DeKnight

Having already linked up with Netflix for original series Marvel’s Daredevil through his DeKnight Productions banner, DeKnight will now work with the streamer to create series and other projects.

A prolific writer, producer and director, DeKnight was showrunner and exec producer on Daredevil and was creator, lead writer and exec producer on the Starz series Spartacus – also available on Netflix. He has previously worked on cult fantasy series Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel.

Cindy Holland, VP or original content at Netflix, said DeKnight’s track record in “visceral storytelling has left its mark.”

“Steven S DeKnight is a multifaceted writer, director, producer and showrunner whose daring visions have gripped audiences for years,” she added.

DeKnight’s agreement with Netflix is the latest in a series of high-profile overall deals the streamer is making to ensure it has the best writing and producing talent available.

Following seven-figure deals with Shonda Rhimes and Ryan Murphy, Netflix recently sealed a pact with the creators of their hit German series Dark and made an arrangement with former US president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle.

The influx of talent has been balanced in recent weeks by the departure of director of original programming Tara Duncan and development executive Layne Eskridge.

In related news, Netflix has renewed hit comedy series Dear White People for a third season. The TV adaptation of the indie movie was picked up by the SVoD service in 2016 but only began streaming last year. The Lionsgate-produced show was renewed for a second season less than a year ago.