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Cinema and literature are two mediums that have always been very closely connected, so it makes sense why many actors would dip their toes into both worlds. Actors are rarely just actors anymore. People are less likely to fully dedicate themselves to only one craft these days, and why would they when there are so many different avenues to explore? From directing to producing to singing, dancing or even screenwriting, the opportunities for growth are endless.
The market can often be saturated with much of the same content though, which is why many actors have also branched out in the commissioning side of things – be that Reese Witherspoon with her production company, Hello Sunshine, or Minda Kaling with her new publishing imprint.
Announcing the exciting news on Instagram last night, The US Office star revealed that she’s teamed up with Amazon to helm Mindy’s Book Studio which will be “a new home for dynamic storytelling”. Not due to launch until late 2022, Kahling promises that it will be worth the wait, assuring fans that her very own imprint will feature all manner of different genres – including, but not limited to: romantic comedies, suspenseful dramas, and coming-of-age stories by a diverse range of emerging and established voices. All personally selected by Mindy herself.
Proving my point about actors being multi-hyphenate, Kaling is already a well-established actor, screenwriter and producer… but she’s also a best-selling author too, so clearly knows what’s good when it comes to the book world. “I’m passionate about bringing unique stories to readers and viewers, and I can’t wait to help discover and support talented new voices through Mindy’s Book Studio,” the actress said in a statement.
Much like Reese Witherspoon’s company, Mindy’s Book Studio will also adapt published material as feature motion pictures which will then exclusively stream on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. Kaling holds first-producer option on adaptations and has signed her debut novel and new essay collection for publication with Amazon Publishing.
Kaling’s deal with Amazon Publishing and Amazon Studios comes after her partnership with the companies on her best-selling essay collection Nothing Like I Imagined (Except for Sometimes) and Late Night, the hit film that she co-wrote, produced and starred in.
Equally excited at the prospect of continuing their ongoing relationship with Kaling, head of Amazon Studios, Jennifer Salke, described her as “a relentless innovator in the creative community”. “She is a pioneering artist, remarkable role model, and philanthropist who continues to tap into global and cultural zeitgeists as a source for her refreshingly authentic storytelling. We could not be more thrilled to expand our collaboration with her across Amazon to not only showcase her incredible talents but also introduce new, dynamic storytellers to our global customers.