Ava DuVernay has just signed a multi-year, multi-genre $100 million deal with Warner Brothers that starts in January 2019. It's her first deal with any studio, and it essentially means that she'll be able to branch out and create all kinds of of new content for the entertainment company.
As reported by Deadline, the deal includes "drama and comedy series, documentaries, digital content, event projects and longer-form projects for broadcast and cable, premium cable, streaming services and other platforms."
This is a huge move for DuVernay, because thus far she's primarily been known as a director. DuVernay has already been breaking barriers in Hollywood, making history when she became the first woman of color to direct a movie with more than $100 million budget—last year's A Wrinkle in Time.
She just released a short film, August 28, which is just the latest example of how much range she has. Her recent projects have included the Oscar-nominated Selma (2014), the Netflix documentary 13th about incarceration in the U.S., and the TV drama Queen Sugars that's now in its fourth season.
DuVernay hinted at some of the things that might be coming, noting that while Warner Bros. is a more traditional studio, it's "stirring with untraditional energy and fresh protocols for intentional, inclusive image-making. Warner Bros is a terrific partner about matters of visibility and belonging for all kinds and cultures of people."
Even better, the deal won't prevent DuVernay from working on other projects, including her new indie film distribution company ARRAY.
On her Instagram, DuVernay added: “Couldn’t be happier to call Warner Bros TV my production home.”
This is huge news for DuVernay, and it's a sign of big things to come.
For more celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
-
You Can Shop Two of Blake Lively’s ‘70s-Inspired Looks from This Week and Dip into the Trend YourselfKeeping it retro.
-
Love Them or Not, We Might Have Erin Andrews to Thank for the Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce Love Story
“I owe you big time!!” Kelce wrote about Andrews’ successful manifestation.
-
Meghan Markle Has Two Vital Assets That Could Equal a Successful Political Future, Royal Historian Says
“Polling suggests many Democrats agree Meghan is the right fit for them.”
-
Sarah Hyland and Adam Devine Play 'How Well Do You Know Your Co-Star?'
The 'Modern Family' stars reunited for the 'Pitch Perfect' spinoff series.
-
The 78 Best Celebrity Couple Halloween Costumes of All Time
Honestly, we're impressed.
-
Super Rare Photos of Queen Elizabeth as a Young Woman
From childhood snapshots to portraits as a young princess, beautiful and rare photos of the late Queen Elizabeth as a young woman.
-
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's Relationship: A Timeline
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles has ascended to the throne as king.
-
Who Is Next in Line for the British Throne, Explained
And yes—Harry and Archie are still in the line of succession.
-
Who Is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Fiancé Riley Roberts?
AOC's husband-to-be is an "easygoing redhead" who lives with her in D.C.
-
68 Times the Kardashians Posed Fully Nude and Owned It
And we mean fully nude—as in, not a shred of clothing.
-
Who Is Jonathan Owens, Simone Biles's Fiancé and NFL Player?
"The easiest yes!" Simone wrote about the couple's engagement.
