David Farnor | On 20, Nov 2018

Maya Rudolph and Natasha Lyonne have signed a first-look deal with Amazon Studios.

The Emmy-nominated duo will produce original TV shows exclusively for Amazon Prime Video, as part of a pact via their Animal Pictures shingle.

The multi-year agreement follows the release of Forever, a new Amazon original series starring Rudolph, who produced the project. The Saturday Night Live is a familiar face for audiences too, with roles in Amy Poehler’s upcoming Wine Country, hits such as Bridesmaids and indie favourites including Maggie’s Plan and Away We Go.

“I’ve had an incredible experience working with the team at Amazon Studios on Forever, where they have given us true creative freedom,” says Rudolph. “I’m excited to extend this relationship and to have the opportunity for Natasha and myself to continue to develop new shows for a global audience.”

Lyonne is more well-known for relationship with Netflix, having appeared in multiple seasons of Orange is the New Black as Nicky, a role that earned her an Emmy nomination. Lyonne has since stepped behind the camera, co-creating Netflix series Russian Doll with Amy Poehler, helming an episode of OITNB’s upcoming season and recently directing her first feature, Cabiria, Charity, Chastity, which stars Rudolph.

“I am thrilled to extend the creative partnership I have with my lifelong and brilliant friend Maya, under our new shingle.” Lyonne says. “Amazon Studios has galvanized Animal Pictures and we can’t wait to bring to life our ideas and support emerging and original voices.”

“Maya and Natasha are proven talents in front of and behind the camera, and we are so excited to tap into this powerful creative brain trust and be in business with these fiercely funny and phenomenally smart women,” comments Jennifer Salke, Head of Amazon Studios.

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