Netflix buys second Ricky Gervais stand-up special ‘for $20m’

SVOD giant Netflix has acquired another stand-up special from Ricky Gervais, with the comedian claiming the deal hands him US$20 million.

In October, Netflix dished out for Humanity, the current stand-up show Gervais is touring, and has now acquired its successor.

The comic, known for co-creating sitcoms such as The Office and Derek, tweeted that he had not yet thought up a concept or a title for the second show.

He also responded affirmatively to tweets claiming the deal was worth US$20 million.

Netflix has spent heavily on stand-up originals from the likes of Russell Howard, Chris Rock and Russell Peters, and made a splash last year when it forked out millions for Jerry Seinfeld’s back catalogue and new stand-up specials.

Humanity will debut on Netflix this quarter.

As you may have read, Netflix have bought two stand up specials. The first, Humanity, which I have toured and filmed. And the second, which I haven’t even thought about yet. Any suggestions for a theme or title? pic.twitter.com/8PqKQyUQtT

— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) January 2, 2018