Thread by @Variety

Netflix’s Ted Sarandos is defending Dave Chappelle’s controversial stand-up special: “As with our other talent, we work hard to support their creative freedom — even though this means there will always be content on Netflix some people believe is harmful.” bit.ly/3v2tUb4

In a memo to Netflix staffers, co-CEO Sarandos says, “You should also be aware that some talent may join third parties in asking us to remove the show in the coming days, which we are not going to do.” bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

The firebrand comedian has drawn criticism from the LGBTQ+ community in recent days over several jokes, specifically around the “thin skin” of trans people and the effects of so-called “cancel culture.” bit.ly/3v2tUb4

In the memo sent after Netflix’s quarterly business review, a two-day gathering of the top 500 employees at the company, Sarandos offered guidance on how managers should handle upset employees and angry talent speaking out against Chappelle. bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

“Chapelle is one of the most popular stand-up comedians today, and we have a long standing deal with him. His last special “Sticks & Stones,” also controversial, is our most watched, stickiest & most award winning stand-up special to date,” Sarandos wrote. bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

As examples, Sarandos referenced Netflix content, including “Cuties,” the film meant to comment on the “hypersexualization of children,” which in turn was accused of promoting lewd images of minors; “13 Reasons Why;” and “My Unorthodox Life.” bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

Seeming to address industry rumors that many Netflix employees were incensed by the company’s silence over Chappelle’s remarks about the trans community, Sarandos said, “Several of you have also asked where we draw the line on hate...” bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

“We don’t allow titles on Netflix that are designed to incite hate or violence, and we don’t believe ‘The Closer’ crosses that line,” the co-CEO said of Chappelle’s new special. bit.ly/3Bwu7FO

“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.” bit.ly/3v2tUb4

“In terms of our commitment to inclusion, we’re working hard to ensure more people see their lives reflected on screen,” Sarandos said before referencing Netflix titles “Sex Education,” “Young Royals,” “Control Z” and “Disclosure.” bit.ly/3v2tUb4

“Particularly in stand-up comedy, artistic freedom is obviously a very different standard of speech than we allow internally as the goals are different: entertaining people versus maintaining a respectful, productive workplace,” Sarandos said. bit.ly/3v2tUb4

Read the Netflix co-CEO's full remarks bit.ly/3Bwu7FO