Barack Obama has shared his thoughts on the role of former political leaders in contemporary discourse, emphasizing that he avoids commenting on current events more frequently to avoid becoming a “commentator” like Jon Stewart. The former president has largely stayed out of the political spotlight since leaving office in 2017, only making public statements during significant moments such as midterms or major policy debates.
In a recent interview featured in The New Yorker, Obama explained that he made a deliberate choice to step back from active participation in political discussions. He stated, “For me to function like Jon Stewart, even once a week, just going off, just ripping what was happening — which, by the way, I’m glad Jon’s doing it — then I’m not a political leader, I’m a commentator.”
He added that the media landscape has become so complex that people often don’t fully understand the work he is doing. “And, I think, when they do see me, then the sense is Well, why isn’t he doing that every day instead of just during a midterm election, or during a referendum campaign around gerrymandering, or what have you?”
Obama also discussed his involvement with Higher Ground, his production company co-founded with his wife, Michelle. He revealed that he only dedicates about 10 percent of his time to the company. Last month, he announced that Higher Ground will transition into an independent operation after its deal with Netflix ended.
The Obamas launched Higher Ground in 2018 when they signed a deal with Netflix, which was later extended in 2024 to a multi-year first-look deal for all film and television projects. During this time, the company produced several notable films, including the 2023 apocalyptic thriller Leave the World Behind, starring Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke.
Obama expressed gratitude for the partnership with Netflix, stating that they are now in the process of transitioning to a more independent model where they can collaborate with various studios.
Higher Ground has been behind several acclaimed projects, including the Oscar-nominated films Rustin, American Symphony, and Crip Camp, as well as the Oscar- and Emmy-winning documentary American Factory. Other notable works include the limited series Bodkin, the NBA docu-series Starting Five, and the 2021 comedy Fatherhood featuring Kevin Hart.
Recently, the company has expanded beyond traditional film and television. The Obamas are co-producers for the Broadway revival of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play Proof, which opened on April 16. The production stars Ayo Edebiri, Don Cheadle, Jin Ha from Pachinko, and Samira Wiley from Orange Is the New Black. Directed by Tony-winner Thomas Kail, the 16-week run is also produced by Mike Bosner and the Obamas.
“To bring this landmark play back to Broadway with Ayo, Don, Tommy, and Mike at the helm is an extraordinary privilege, and we couldn’t be more proud to be part of this production,” the Obamas said in a previous statement.
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