The Obamas May Return to Us Via Netflix Deal

Barack and Michelle Obama, the adults in the room we never fully appreciated until they were gone, are in “advanced negotiations” with Netflix to produce a series of shows that, as near as I can tell, will provide soothing background noise as we pack dirt around the walls of our nuclear fallout shelters.

According to the New York Times, the series will not be a reality show starring Michelle and Barack as they jet ski around the Caribbean or learn to skywrite the words “Bet You Miss Us Now, Ya Dicks.” Instead, it will provide the former president “a global platform after his departure from the White House.” From the Times:

Under terms of a proposed deal, which is not yet final, Netflix would pay Mr. Obama and his wife, Michelle, for exclusive content that would be available only on the streaming service, which has nearly 118 million subscribers around the world. The number of episodes and the formats for the shows have not been decided.

Mr. Obama does not intend to use his Netflix shows to directly respond to President Trump or conservative critics, according to people familiar with discussions about the programming. They said the Obamas had talked about producing shows that highlight inspirational stories.

One idea that’s been pitched would see Barack moderating discussions on issues like health care, climate change and immigration. Another might find Michelle addressing nutrition. They also might put their stamp of approval on certain documentaries or other programs that align with their beliefs. Nothing is certain, except that it promises to make the current president positively livid. Which is not the best part of this news, but it doesn’t hurt.