Outside the US the streaming service already carries How to Get Away with Murder, which will continue to air on ABC in the US, and today’s deal gives it access to all future Rhimes projects.
Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, said: “Shonda Rhimes is one of the greatest storytellers in the history of television. Her work is gripping, inventive, pulse-pounding, heart-stopping, taboo-breaking television at its best.
“I’ve gotten the chance to know Shonda and she’s a true Netflixer at heart — she loves TV and films, she cares passionately about her work, and she delivers for her audience. We’re so excited to welcome her to Netflix.”
Rhimes commented: “Shondaland’s move to Netflix is the result of a shared plan Ted Sarandos and I built based on my vision for myself as a storyteller and for the evolution of my company.
“Ted provides a clear, fearless space for creators at Netflix. He understood what I was looking for — the opportunity to build a vibrant new storytelling home for writers with the unique creative freedom and instantaneous global reach provided by Netflix’s singular sense of innovation.
”The future of Shondaland at Netflix has limitless possibilities.”
Longtime producing partner Betsy Beers, who is moving with Rhimes to Netflix, added: “I am a huge fan of the talented team and amazing programming at Netflix. The ability to create content for our new partners is an exciting challenge.
“I am grateful to everyone at ABC for their continued support and I look forward to beginning this next chapter at Netflix.”