J.J. Abrams Eyes WarnerMedia, Apple for Mega Overall Deal
J.J. Abrams is narrowing down the list of suitors to sign a mega overall deal for his production company, Bad Robot, that could be worth $500 million.
Abrams is responsible for directing some of the biggest movies in recent years, including "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and the upcoming "Rise of Skywalker," as well as creating and/or producing hit TV shows like "Lost" and "Alias."
Variety and Deadline report that WarnerMedia is the frontrunner to land Abrams, with Apple also a strong contender.
Disney and Comcast have also been in the mix.
The deal would encompass films, television, digital content, music, games, consumer products, and theme-park opportunities.
Abrams has a long history with WarnerMedia; Bad Robot was based at Warner Bros. TV for many years and resulted in many successful shows, including three at HBO ("Westworld," "Lovecraft," and "Demimonde"). WarnerMedia is also working to launch its own streaming service, which could be home to any number and kind of Bad Robot productions.
Abrams also has three shows in the works at Apple: the Stephen King adaptation "Lisey’s Story," Sara Bareilles’ "Little Voice," and "My Glory Was I Had Such Friends" starring Jennifer Garner.
Variety says the competition for Abrams' deal has been "intense" and likened by studio executives to "The Bachelor" — "with jokes made between competitors about who among them received the rose."