Michelle Obama to cook up and host Netflix kids series

Netflix is working on a new children’s cookery show, produced by Barack and Michelle Obama’s US-based Higher Ground Productions and to be fronted by the former first lady alongside a pair of puppet co-hosts.

The 10-episode series, titled Waffles + Mochi, is set to debut on 16 March and comes as part of the streamer’s multi-year production deal with Higher Ground.

The former US first lady will be executive producing alongside husband Barack and described the series as a “hilarious, heartwarming, and simply magical show.”

Obama will help puppet duo Waffles and Mochi cook, eat and learn about food from around the world, guided by a magical flying shopping trolley as they pursue their dream of becoming chefs.

“I only wish Waffles + Mochi had been around when my daughters were growing up, because it’s the kind of programme that’s fun to watch together as a family, and gives parents the peace of mind to know that their little ones are learning something, too,” said Obama.

The news follows an announcement earlier this week of an upcoming slate of multi-genre programming from Higher Ground for Netflix, including Firekeeper’s Daughter, a scripted drama based on the debut novel by Angeline Boulley, and natural history docuseries Great National Parks.

Waffles & Mochi will meanwhile join the previously announced kids offering, the animated preschool series Ada Twist Scientist, that the prodco has in the works for Netflix.

The 40 x 12-minute show is based on the books of the same name by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts and tells the story of a young black scientist who helps people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship.