Netflix Preps Animated Musical About Wyclef Jean

Netflix is working on an animated feature film based on the life of Grammy-winning musician Wyclef Jean, who is serving as a producer.

Greg Silverman’s Stampede is collaborating with Jean to produce the musical, which will be penned by Justin Marks (The Jungle Book). The CGI movie will reimagine the story of Jean’s childhood in Haiti. Madeline Nelson and Nick Lewin are co-producing, with Cara Fano overseeing the project for Stampede.

Jean said: “I grew up in extreme poverty but I was rich with imagination. Now to see that imagination turn into reality with Netflix and my producing partners makes me want to tell the kids from the slums around the world to never stop dreaming.”

“When Wyclef first came to us with the rich story idea for an animated film about his personal journey and the evolution of his music from when he was a young boy in Haiti to finding his voice in New York City—we were hooked,” noted Melissa Cobb, Netflix’s VP of kids and family. “Animation is a medium that travels the globe exceptionally well, and we cannot wait to share Wyclef’s unique perspective and voice with family audiences around the world.”

Marks remarked: “When I was 17 years old, two things had a huge impact on my life: the music of Wyclef Jean and the spirit of his home country, Haiti. I’ve been lucky enough to have visited Haiti and worked alongside its people several times over the years, and I’ve long wanted to tell a story about its vibrant and resilient culture. If you’d have told Teenage Me that one day I’d get to work with Wyclef on a movie like this, I’d have never believed you. This movie is an honor and a thrill, and I’m grateful to Greg, Stampede and Netflix for making it a reality.”

Silverman added: “Haiti holds a special place in my heart, and Wyclef and Justin’s film will showcase this magical country in their unique and signature style. We’ve been delighted to partner with them and Netflix on this astounding film.”