In a fierce bidding war, Netflix has emerged victorious in acquiring the rights to “The Fifth Wheel,” a comedy film starring Kim Kardashian. The streaming giant secured the film, overcoming competition from several major players, including theatrical distributors and other streaming platforms.
Key Players and Last-Minute Twists
Deadline reported that the bidding war was intense, involving multiple major players in the entertainment industry. Two out of the five companies that were initially in the running backed out at the last minute, paving the way for Netflix to secure the project. Kardashian, along with co-writers Paula Pell and Janine Brito, signed the deal with Netflix.
$ALE$ pic.twitter.com/vskqSWVcMB
— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) November 25, 2023
Synopsis and Cast
While the logline for “The Fifth Wheel” is currently under wraps, Kardashian is set to play the eponymous “fifth wheel” alongside a female ensemble cast. The specific co-stars for the film have not been announced.
Kim Kardashian, known for her role in “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” and her successful loungewear company SKIMS, is expanding her presence in scripted entertainment. She recently starred in the latest season of “American Horror Story” and will be actively involved in producing “The Fifth Wheel.” Leveraging her influential status, Kardashian plans to use her massive social media following, including 364 million Instagram followers, to promote the film.
Post-SAG-AFTRA Strike Landscape
The acquisition of “The Fifth Wheel” by Netflix is notable as one of the first major sales following the settlement of the historic SAG-AFTRA strike in November. Netflix continues to bolster its mid-budget film slate, including projects such as the romantic comedy “A Family Affair” featuring Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, and Joey King.
Notable Projects on Netflix’s Slate
Other films on Netflix’s lineup include the drama “Lonely Planet” starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth, and “Good Grief,” directed by Dan Levy of “Schitt’s Creek” fame, who also stars alongside Ruth Negga, Himesh Patel, and Luke Evans.
Paula Pell’s Background and Brito’s Debut
Paula Pell, a “Saturday Night Live” alum and producer of “Sisters,” is producing “The Fifth Wheel” with Kim Kardashian. The film also marks Janine Brito’s first major screenwriting credit. She has been a part of NBC’s sitcom “Mr. Mayor” and the Peacock series “Girls5Eva.”