Mo’Nique is set to film her first comedy special for Netflix, following the news last month that she settled a discrimination suit against the streaming giant.
In a video released, she said, “Hey y’all it’s your girl Mo’Nique and I’m excited to say that I’ll be shooting my first Netflix special; in addition to reuniting with my friend, Director Lee Daniels on the Netflix film The Deliverance. You won’t want to miss either of them, so stay tuned! Thank you all and I love y’all to life!”
Thrilled to announce that Netflix is the home for the next original stand-up special from the groundbreaking, trailblazing, and iconic Mo’Nique! pic.twitter.com/VzBJ1H92RH
— Netflix (@netflix) July 19, 2022
The special is set to film in Atlanta later this year.
Netflix and Mo’Nique reportedly came to a settlement after she filed a complaint, alleging that they lowballed her in an offer for a standup special. According to her legal team, all things have been resolved.
It all started in 2017 when Netflix approached Mo’Nique about a comedy special. Negotiations fell flat because the Oscar-winning actress did not agree to a $500,000 one-hour show. She alleged Netflix would have creative control. Moreso, she revealed the contract deals negotiated with other comedians, such as Amy Schumer and Dave Chappelle, both of whom received millions in their deals.
As a result, she called on fans to boycott the service, citing “gender bias and color bias.”
She also went on a media tour regarding the incident. Mo’Nique eventually filed a lawsuit. But Netflix stood by their offer, saying negotiations could have continued, but it was Mo’Nique who backed out fully. Netflix submitted their response explaining such. But, a judge sided with Mo’Nique. The lawsuit has since been settled.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, Michael Parks, who represents Mo’Nique, said that, “The matter has been amicably resolved.” Per various reports, both parties have agreed to dismiss the suit.
Mo'Nique and Lee Daniels have also settled their years-long feud following 'Precious'
She will star in Daniels’ The Deliverance, a long-gestating passion project for Netflix.
The film also sees Daniels reunite with his The United States vs Billie Holiday star Andra Day, who will lead the film as character based on Ammons alongside Mo’Nique, Glenn Close, Rob Morgan, Caleb McLaughlin and Aunjanue Ellis.
The film focuses a mother’s encounter with evil spirits. According to the logline: “Inspired by a terrifying true story, a mother fights for her life, her faith, and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.”
