Barack and Michelle Obama sign Netflix deal to produce scripted series and documentaries

Barack and Michelle Obama have signed a major deal to make films and TV shows for Netflix.

The work could include scripted shows and films, the streaming service said.

The couple "have entered into a multi-year agreement to produce films and series for Netflix, potentially including scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries, and features", Netflix announced on Twitter.

They have created a company called Higher Ground Productions to produce the content.

The Obamas are not expected to use the new platform to attack Donald Trump or to take on the conservative outlets that have supported him. Barack has been quiet since he left office last year – despite pleas from supporters to help oppose Mr Trump, he has looked to avoid becoming a target for the current president – and is expected to take much the same approach with his new shows.

Instead, they will deal with the issues and themes the former president came into contact with while in office.

“One of the simple joys of our time in public service was getting to meet so many fascinating people from all walks of life, and to help them share their experiences with a wider audience,” Mr. Obama said in a statement.

“That’s why Michelle and I are so excited to partner with Netflix — we hope to cultivate and curate the talented, inspiring, creative voices who are able to promote greater empathy and understanding between peoples, and help them share their stories with the entire world.”

A statement from Ted Sarandos, the chief content officer for Netflix, appeared to confirm that the content would focus on communities and storytelling, rather than traditional political coverage.

“Barack and Michelle Obama are among the world’s most respected and highly-recognised public figures and are uniquely positioned to discover and highlight stories of people who make a difference in their communities and strive to change the world for the better,” he said, according to the New York Times. “We are incredibly proud they have chosen to make Netflix the home for their formidable storytelling abilities.”