Netflix lays off 1,000 workers as reports surface of tensions between Hollywood and tech teams
The streaming company cut roughly 6% of its workforce in October 2026 while replacing its chief content officer.
Netflix laid off about 1,000 workers globally on October 14, 2026, cutting roughly 6% of its workforce. The reductions primarily affected product, technology, legal and human resources staff according to an internal memo.
The company replaced chief content officer Bela Bajaria with Peter Rice on October 15. Rice, previously a senior Disney executive, took up the role on October 26. Film executives Dan Lin and Doug Belgrad and television executive Carolina Garcia also departed.
A Los Angeles Times investigation described tensions between Netflix's Hollywood executives and Silicon Valley technology teams. Former employees and industry insiders cited disagreements over how to expand the business and promote content on the platform.
Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters have jointly led Netflix as co-chief executives since Reed Hastings stepped down in January 2023. Sarandos oversees entertainment while Peters brings a technology and operations background. One former executive told the Los Angeles Times the dual structure creates challenges, saying 'With two CEOs, it's hard to have a singular vision.'
Netflix declined to comment on the investigation. An unnamed company source disputed the suggestion of a Hollywood-Silicon Valley power struggle, saying Sarandos and Peters debate competing views and make decisions together.
Source: ibtimes.co.uk
