May 28, 2023
BLM co-founder loses multi-platform Warner Brothers deal after delivering no content on contract
"The deal unfortunately did not result in any produced shows."
On Friday, a source familiar with the situation told the outlet, "The studio signed an overall deal with BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors at some point in 2020" but the "Deal expired at end of October 2022."
"The deal unfortunately did not result in any produced shows," the source added.
The agreement was a multi-year, multi-platform deal in which Cullors would produce original material, including scripted comedies and dramas, animated shows, and documentary series, that would focus on black stories. The content would go out on the distributor's broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms.
Variety first reported on the deal in 2020 but did not disclose its value.
Previously, Cullors said in an interview that she was working on material for Warner Bros, including documentaries focused on reparations and social mobility of black Americans as well as a scripted program on marijuana.
Patrisse Cullors, who helped found BLM in 2013, stepped down from the organization after a real-estate scandal emerged in May 2021 when it was revealed she spent $3.2 million on four different homes in Georgia and California. Soon after more reports started to emerge of Black Lives Matter leadership using company funds for personal luxury.
Upon stepping down, Cullors claimed she was doing so in order to focus on her book and TV deal.
In April 2022, Cullors said that 990 tax forms required for charities were "triggering" and that the forms were being "weaponized" against organizations like hers.
The IRS 990 is a routine document charities must fill out annually to disclose their financial activities.
