Our head of Netflix and Peter Friedlander, Canadian scripted television content, decided to close the post on the streaming service after nearly 14 years. Ginny Howe, the director of the drama series under Friedlander, is now being promoted to replace him.
Hau will report directly to Netflix TV Chief Bela Bajaria. Promoted to head of last year’s Uskan drama, Hau joined Netflix in 2018, overseeing the development and production of serialized dramatic content, and has worked on hit series such as Bridgeton, Maid, Beef, Anna of the Inventory, Agent of the Night, Diplomat, Siren, and Untame.
Friedlander joined Netflix in October 2011 as the first employee of Streamer’s original series team. He directed creatives in early Netflix hit series, including “House of Cards,” “Black Mirror,” “Mind Hunter,” “Daredevil of Marvel,” and “Queen’s Gambit.” At the time of his exit, Friedlander had directed top TV IPs such as “Stranger Things,” “Wednesday,” “Emily in Paris,” “Monster,” “One Piece,” and “No one wants this.”
Sources tell Variety that Friedlander’s farewell to Netflix was his choice and a friendly farewell. It is currently unclear what his next move will be, but his exit has also come as another high-level executive of Josh Simon, former director of consumer products.
“This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime ride,” Friedlander said in a statement Tuesday. “To join as the first employee of the original series team and witness the incredible journey of this company — growing into one of the world’s most beloved entertainment brands — was the thrill of my career. I am deeply grateful to Ted, Greg and Bella for the opportunity to work with them. 2018. It’s a privilege to see her rise and I know I’ll leave the company with the best hands at the helm.”
“Ginny brings incredible energy and warmth to everything she does, and her creative instincts and deep industry relationships make her an emotional leader in screenwrited series teams in the US and Canada,” Baharia said. “She has the knack for bold and distinctive storytelling and building authentic, creative partnerships. This has led to some of our most beloved originals, like Bridgeton, Beef, and Diplomats, to see how she continues to shape our show with her distinctive style and infectious enthusiasm.”
She added: “I would like to thank Peter for his extraordinary contributions over the past 14 years. Many are important. Peter is working on iconic shows that have shaped Netflix’s original series strategy, defined brands around the world and captivated audiences.
