Obamas’ Higher Ground Goes Independent Post-Netflix Deal
Barack and Michelle Obama have announced that their production company, Higher Ground, is moving towards independent operations after eight years with Netflix. The announcement was made during a Saturday event in Philadelphia, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Transition to Independence
At the event, Barack Obama expressed gratitude for their time with Netflix but noted the desire for a more independent approach. He stated that Higher Ground will collaborate with various studios, allowing for greater creative freedom.
Partnership with Netflix
- Higher Ground signed a producing deal with Netflix in 2018.
- The partnership was extended in 2024 to a multiyear first-look deal for film and TV projects.
- Notable projects included:
- Oscar-nominated films: Rustin, American Symphony, and Crip Camp.
- Oscar and Emmy-winning film: American Factory.
- Series: Bodkin and Leave the World Behind.
Upcoming Projects
Higher Ground is already exploring projects outside of Netflix. Notably, they have the HBO sketch comedy series Life Larry and the upcoming show The Pursuit of Unhappiness, created by Larry David and Jeff Schaffer, set to premiere in June. This project was initially announced at SXSW last month.
Event Highlights
The Philadelphia event featured various notable figures, including:
- Joe and Dr. Jill Biden
- Bill and Hillary Clinton
- George W. Bush
- Nicole Kidman
- Tina Fey
- Colin Jost
- Garth Brooks
- Tom Brady
- Ted Danson
- Kate McKinnon
- Jason Kelce
- Jenna Bush Hager
- Hoda Kotb
This shift marks a pivotal moment in the Obamas’ entertainment journey, as they transition into a broader creative landscape beyond their established partnership with Netflix.
