Netflix inks development, production pact with US comedian Druski

Netflix has struck a multi-year deal with American comedian and actor Druski and his 4LIFERS Entertainment banner to develop original content exclusively for the streamer.

The agreement will see Druski, whose real name is Drew Desbordes, produce a slate of projects for Netflix.

The first of those is the semi-scripted comedy series Collect & Praise, which premieres December 1. The series stars Druski as a money-hungry megachurch pastor and Mike Epps as his unpredictable deacon, as the pair navigate scandals and controversy.

The show expands on Druski’s viral megachurch pastor character, one of several comedy personas that have helped build his online following. It marks the first of several projects he and 4LIFERS Entertainment will produce under the deal.

Netflix will also license select titles from Druski’s existing catalogue, including sketch comedies Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy and Coulda Been Records Auditions, alongside a selection of his comedy skits.

John Derderian, VP of next-gen content at Netflix, said Druski had a “gift for building characters that people can’t stop talking about.”

“We want the best talent in the world to bring us their most ambitious work, reach new audiences and build their brands,” he said.

Druski added: “It’s a tremendous opportunity for our team at 4LIFERS Entertainment to expand our reach, develop original programming for the masses and take our creativity to new heights.”