Global streaming giant Netflix has fired its chief communications officer Jonathan Friedland, with reports indicating that his use of “insensitive” language around company staffers, specifically involving a racial slur, is to blame.
Netflix CEO Reed Hastings addressed the situation in a company-wide email earlier today, saying:
“I’ve made a decision to let go of Jonathan Friedland. Jonathan contributed greatly in many areas, but his descriptive use of the N-word on at least two occasions at work showed unacceptably low racial awareness and sensitivity, and is not in line with our values as a company.”
According to Hastings’ email, the first incident occurred several months ago, in a PR meeting about “sensitive words”, after which he apologised; the second occurred several days later during a meeting with human resources, but only came to light recently.
He continued:
“Jonathan has been a great contributor and he built a diverse global team creating awareness for Netflix, strengthening our reputation around the world, and helping make us into the successful company we are today. Many of us have worked closely with Jonathan for a long time, and have mixed emotions. Unfortunately, his lack of judgment in this area was too big for him to remain. We care deeply about our employees feeling safe and supported at Netflix.”
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter earlier today, Friedland himself said:
“I’m leaving Netflix after seven years. Leaders have to be beyond reproach in the example we set and unfortunately I fell short of that standard when I was insensitive in speaking to my team about words that offend in comedy. I feel awful about the distress this lapse caused to people at a company I love and where I want everyone to feel included and appreciated. I feel honored to have built a brilliant and diverse global team and to have been part of this collective adventure in building the world’s leading entertainment service.”
Jonathan Friedland joined Netflix in 2011, having previously worked in a senior corporate communications role at The Walt Disney Co, and before that, as a foreign correspondent at The Wall Street Journal. His replacement has yet to be announced.
