Netflix CEO Stands Strong on Defense of Chappelle Special Amid News of Transgender Employee Walkout

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos stood strong on the network’s defense of Dave Chappelle following complaints from the company’s transgender employees. 

If you aren’t familiar with the story, Sarandos sent a memo to Netflix managers last week detailing the platform’s decision to air the special and instructing supervisors on how to handle employees who complained about the comedian’s content. 

Transgender Netflix employees in particular were upset about the special, which includes a bit about transgenders and biological reality. 

“Several of you have also asked where we draw the line on hate,” he said last week. “We don’t allow titles that are designed to incite hate or violence, and we don’t believe ‘The Closer’ crosses that line. I recognize, however, that distinguishing between commentary and harm is hard, especially with stand-up comedy which exists to push boundaries. Some people find the art of stand-up to be mean-spirited but our members enjoy it and it’s an important part of our content offering.”