Apple is raising the stakes for consumer attention by adding Oprah's expertise in content creation.
The deal comes amid a popular trend among entertainment giants, such as Netflix and Amazon, to collaborate with big names like Barack and Michelle Obama as well as Shonda Rhimes. In a statement released Friday, June 15, the company said "Winfrey's projects will be released as part of a lineup of original content from Apple" according to CNN Money.
The billion-dollar corporation disclosed to CNN its lack of knowledge when it comes to creating shows. This multi-year deal is not only Apple's attempt to keep current consumers hooked but also to acquire new fans through exceptional TV show production. Auntie Oprah has spent years producing quality content, which appealed to a multi-cultural viewership. Oprah's track record is no secret, and they've more than likely tapped the right one to bring their vision to fruition.
Variety reports her contract with Discovery Communications, which produces Ava DuVernay's Queen Sugar, was recently renewed until 2025. Aside from the OWN hit, Oprah's unmatched versatility from the small screen to big screen as a creator, director, producer and actress is well-established. She's contributed to the production of some of our mamas' long-time favorite daytime series, The Dr. Phil Show and The Dr. Oz Show. She also recently produced and starred in HBO’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, and who can ever forget her performance in the Academy Award-winning Selma?
Apple says there are no public details on whether the icon will make any show appearances, but she is set to have an on-screen role as a host and interviewer — because, duh.