Curry Barker Inks Eight-Figure Deal with Universal and Blumhouse Following 'Obsession' Breakout

Riding high on the momentum of his recent box office success with Obsession, 26-year-old filmmaker Curry Barker has secured a major deal with Universal and Blumhouse.

The YouTuber-turned-director has signed an eight-figure agreement to write, direct, and produce the untitled project, which represents his third film with the studio partnership. His previous collaborations include the hit Obsession and the forthcoming Anything But Ghosts, in which he also serves as writer, director, and star. Anything But Ghosts has already completed filming.

The new project centers on an original horror concept that Barker pitched directly to Universal executives. Story details remain under wraps at this stage.

"Curry Barker has an exceptional ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist, pairing an innate instinct for what resonates with audiences with extraordinary filmmaking prowess. Barker's talent is redefining what's possible and we're thrilled to continue our partnership with him," NBCUniversal Entertainment chairman Donna Langley said in a statement.

Barker expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting: "This film is something I've been excited to make for a while, and I'm thrilled to be reteaming with Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal Film Group for it. They've built the kind of home for bold, original storytelling that every filmmaker dreams of, and I couldn't imagine better collaborators for this film."

The deal comes months after reports surfaced that Barker received a preemptive $10 million offer sight unseen for his next project from an undisclosed studio. Universal and Blumhouse had negotiation rights for his subsequent work following the terms of their Obsession agreement.

Beyond this project, Barker has also closed a separate deal with A24 to write and direct a new Texas Chainsaw Massacre film.

When discussing his recent success, Barker has hinted at having "a cool idea" for an Obsession sequel.