Netflix Layoffs: 15 Film Division Employees Lose Jobs in Genre-Based Restructuring

Netflix Revamps Film Division, Cuts Announced

Streaming Giant Streamlines with Genre-Focused Leadership

Netflix is shaking things up in its film department, with a new leadership structure and reports of layoffs. According to Deadline, roughly 15 employees will be let go as the company divides its film division by genre. Specific names of those impacted haven’t been released, and Netflix may potentially hire new talent, but sources report new film chief Dan Lin delivered the news this week.

This restructuring follows the appointment of Lin, announced last month, who replaces Scott Stuber as the head of film. Stuber announced his departure earlier this year, prompting a swift search for his successor.

Genre Gurus Take the Helm

The new structure assigns genre-specific leaders: Ori Marmur will oversee action, fantasy, horror, and sci-fi; Kira Goldberg takes the reins for thrillers, dramas, and family films; Niija Kuykendall focuses on faith-based, young adult, and holiday offerings; and Jason Young leads comedies and rom-coms. Insiders suggest this genre-based reorganization has been in development for the past month.

Impact on Workforce

While the specific reasons for the layoffs remain unclear, the move signals a shift in Netflix’s approach to film production. The streamlining suggests a focus on genre-specific expertise and potentially a tighter control on project selection. The impact on the workforce, however, raises questions about Netflix’s commitment to employee well-being and its strategy for navigating a competitive content landscape.

This development comes amidst ongoing discussions about subscriber growth and content quality at Netflix. It remains to be seen how the genre-focused structure will impact the company’s film output and its ability to attract and retain top talent.