Netflix renews first-look deal with Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground

Barack and Michelle Obama pictured during his presidency (photo: Madeleine Perry via <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/barackobamadotcom/7003288554/">CC</a>)

Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company Higher Ground has extended its multi-year first-look deal with streaming giant Netflix.

Under the terms of the agreement, Netflix will have first right of refusal on all TV and film projects developed by the former US president and First Lady’s prodco.

The creative partnership was originally inked in May 2018, with the Obamas signing up to provide a pipeline of scripted series, factual projects and feature films.

Higher Ground content has performed well on the platform recently, with crime drama series Bodkin debuting in the streamer’s weekly global top 10 list. Apocalyptic film Leave the World Behind, meanwhile, is the most watched Netflix film of all time.

Projects on the deck include crime thriller All the Sinners Bleed, developed with Amblin Entertainment, family drama Hello, Beautiful, and docuseries The Later Daters.

Higher Ground president Vinnie Malhotra said: “From the beginning, Netflix has championed our projects, helping them flourish and reach millions across the world.

“We’re thrilled to build on our stellar creative partnership and to deliver more ambitious films and series. From gripping thrillers to heartfelt comedies and profound documentaries, we have so much that we look forward to sharing.”

Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer, added: “If there’s one thing that’s defined President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s creative ambitions since we started our partnership with Higher Ground, it is their pursuit of an exceptional story that brings the human experience to light.

“We’re delighted to continue our relationship with Higher Ground as they continue to develop and produce more ambitious, compelling and entertaining stories.”