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As his mega-pastor comedy series Collect & Praise readies for a December launch, influencer comedian Druski is doubling down on his relationship with Netflix.
The streamer has struck a multi-year deal with Druski and his 4Lifers Entertainment shingle to develop and produce original series.
Deadline understands that the deal includes a certain number of projects rather than a traditional overall or first-look deal.
It’s a circuitous route into a partnership with Netflix for the rising entertainer. His semi-scripted comedy series Collect & Praise, which premieres on December 1, was self-funded before being acquired by Netflix.
On The Diary of a CEO podcast, Druski, born Drew Desbordes, said that Netflix turned down “multiple different projects” of his over the years. “Now, it’s a whole different story. Now they want to purchase these shows that we’ve made and do more in the future. Now, it’s a bidding war,” he added.
Collect & Praise, which began life as the Mega Church Pastors Love Money sketch (see below), stars Druski as a money-hungry megachurch pastor and his unpredictable deacon, played by Mike Epps, as they scheme their way through scandal, chaos and controversy.
Additionally, Netflix will license select content from Druski’s existing catalog, including Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy and Coulda Been Records Auditions.
Next up for Druski, who is set to host SNL on November 7, is The Catch, a baseball rom-com starring Emma Stone and Chris Pine.
“I’ve built my platform by creating characters and comedy that resonate with people,” Druski said. “This partnership with Netflix will give me the resources to build on that comedy foundation and bring my work to a new global audience. It’s a tremendous opportunity for our team at 4Lifers Entertainment to expand our reach, develop original programming for the masses and take our creativity to new heights.”
“Druski has a gift for building characters that people can’t stop talking about,” added John Derderian, VP, who oversees Next Gen Content at Netflix. “We want the best talent in the world to bring us their most ambitious work, reach new audiences and build their brands. Collect & Praise is just the beginning, and we welcome Druski to Netflix.”