Peter Friedlander, head of U.S. and Canada scripted series at Netflix, is leaving the streamer after 14 years. Jinny Howe will move up to take his place leading the division.
Friedlander is one of Netflix’s longest-serving creative executives, having joined the company in 2011. That was right around when Netflix announced its first foray into original series with House of Cards, which would premiere in 2013. The departure is amicable, as Friedlander will look to do something different after 14 years at Netflix.
“This has truly been the ride of a lifetime. Joining as the very first employee on the original series team and witnessing this company’s incredible journey — growing into one of the most beloved entertainment brands in the world — has been the thrill of my career,” Friedlander said in a statement. I’m deeply grateful to [co-CEOS] Ted [Sarandos], Greg [Peters], and [chief content officer] Bela [Bajaria] for the opportunity to work alongside them, and to all my colleagues and the incredible talent I’ve had the honor of working with, whose creativity and talent have inspired me every day. A special thanks to Jinny, my partner since she joined in 2018. Watching her rise has been a privilege, and I know I’m leaving the company in the best hands with her at the helm.”
Friedlander shepherded early Netflix breakouts including House of Cards and Orange Is the New Black, tentpoles including Stranger Things and Wednesday and acclaimed series Black Mirror, Mindhunter and The Queen’s Gambit, among many others.
Howe joined Netflix in 2018 and has been considered a rising star at the streamer. She played a key role in developing Shondaland’s Bridgerton and Inventing Anna as well as shows like Beef, The Night Agent, The Diplomat and Untamed. Howe was named head of drama series for the U.S. and Canada last year.
“Jinny brings an incredible energy and warmth to everything she does, and her creative instincts and deep industry relationships make her an inspiring leader for our scripted series team in the U.S. and Canada,” said Bajaria. “She has a knack for championing bold, distinctive storytelling and building genuine creative partnerships, which have led to some of our most beloved originals like Bridgerton, Beef and The Diplomat. Jinny is also genuinely fun to work with — spirited, quick-witted, and always ready with a food analogy for any occasion. (Everyone on the team knows and loves her for coining the term ‘gourmet cheeseburger’!) I can’t wait to see how she continues to shape our shows with her signature style and infectious enthusiasm.
“I want to thank Peter for his extraordinary contributions over the past 14 years — too many to count,” Bajaria added. “Peter played a foundational role in shaping Netflix’s original series strategy, working on iconic shows that have defined our brand and captivated audiences worldwide. He’s not only a remarkable executive and producer, but an even better friend. I have no doubt he’ll achieve great success in whatever he chooses to do next.”
Said Howe, “I’m incredibly honored to step into this role to lead our powerhouse series team, and to work with some of the most visionary storytellers and artists in the business, whose creativity and passion inspire me every day. My past seven years at Netflix have taught me the importance of leading with heart, integrity, and curiosity, and I’m constantly moved by how our shows can connect with so many people around the world. I’m so grateful to Bela for her unwavering support, and for always pushing us to be fearless and bold in all that we do. I’m excited to build on the strong foundation and momentum that Peter has established, and to continue the stellar work that is already underway with our amazing teams.”