Druski Signs Deal With Netflix, Sets Church Comedy ‘Collect & Praise’

Druski, who has built a huge online following for his comedy sketches and self-produced shows, has signed a multi-year deal with the streamer. Under the deal, Druski and his 4LIFERS Entertainment will develop original content exclusively for Netflix. First up is a “semi-scripted” comedy series called Collect & Praise, starring Druski and Mike Epps and based on a megachurch pastor character Druski has played in a video that collected millions of social media views (and which he reprised while hosting the BET Awards earlier this year).

“I’ve built my platform by creating characters and comedy that resonate with people,” Druski said in a statement. “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.”

The deal comes as Druski, the stage name of Drew Desbordes, has cemented himself as one of the biggest crossover stars of the creator economy, having appeared in commercials and acting roles (Grown-ish, Praise This) along with hosting gigs. On Nov. 7, he’ll become the first online creator to host Saturday Night Live.

“Druski has a gift for building characters that people can’t stop talking about,” said John Derderian, the Netflix vp who oversees next gen content. “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.”

Collect & Praise will star Druski as a money-hungry megachurch pastor and Epps as his deacon, who “scheme their way through scandal, chaos and controversy.”

As part of the deal, Netflix is also licensing some of Druski’s existing material, including the shows Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy and Coulda Been Records Auditions.