Where will the Obama’s Go – Netflix, Amazon or Apple?

We reported that Barack and Michelle Obama are currently in talks with Netflix which would see them produce a series that showcases inspirational stories.  Now, the big question is – will it be a deal with Netflix, Amazon or Apple? It’s being reported that the Obamas are in “advanced” negotiations with Netflix, but Apple is saying that they’re waiting in line if that deal falls through.  We also reported about what this series is thought to be about.  The Obamas intend to bring to light some pretty incredible and inspirational stories.  As I mentioned in my last post, I would love to see an Obama-reality series, but that’s just me.  Although, I’m sure there are a lot of people out there who would support that as well.

Regardless of which streaming service that the show will air on, I think this is great news for the American people.  Especially those of us who are missing the Obamas.  The show will not be a platform to respond to President Trump.  Instead, Obama wants to use the platform to showcase topics that dominated his presidency – like healthcare, voting rights, immigration, foreign policy and climate change.  So maybe it is an indirect way to respond to President Trump? Perhaps Michelle could use one (or more) of the episodes to teach people about nutrition?  This is in line with a lot of her work in the White House.

As I said, we know that they are in talks with Netflix.  But does that mean they will get the show?  All signs point in this direction.  It’s really hard to know.  Especially because no one is really talking about what this is or who it’s with.  That said, Obama has maintained close ties to Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer.  Obama knows Sarandos because he is married to Nicole A. Avant, who is an activist that served as Obama’s ambassador to the Bahamas.  Reed Hastings, the Chief Executive of Netflix was also close to Obama while he was president.  He also attended state dinners.  So there does seem to be a connection between the Obamas and Netflix.

Last year, Michelle attended WWDC to talk climate change and education with Tim Cook and Lisa Jackson.  But that doesn’t suggest anything other than a speaking engagement and the fact that they’ve met.  The problem with Apple is that they’ve been kind of slow at securing original content for their streaming service.  But they do have at least 10 shows in the early stages of development – including an untitled morning show drama starring Jennifer Anniston and Reese Witherspoon.  As well as the Amazing Stories reboot from Steven Spielberg.

Amazon is doing well for themselves without this series, but this could give them a big boost.  My guess, however, is that they are going to go with Netflix given their connection to the company.  There is a saying (at least in my industry) that it doesn’t matter what you know, but it matters who you know, and that kind of nepotism seems apparent in this deal as well.  Where ever this lands, it’s going to be a great show, and a lot of people are going to tune in to watch it.