Doug Belgrad To Netflix As Dan Lin Restaffs After Layoffs

Doug Belgrad Sebastian Reuter/Getty Images

Doug Belgrad is joining Netflix as Vice President of Film. He’s Dan Lin‘s first hire after Lin replaced Scott Stuber and laid off a bunch of staff. Stuber courted top filmmakers for years with hopes Netflix would embrace theatrical releases. We’ve heard rumors of buyer regret as films like Knives Out: Glass Onion sacrificed chances for big international grosses and went straight to streaming. No one can feel sorry, given the size of that deal, but streaming strategies are changing. Netflix is moving forward with a clearer mandate to make its movie slates specifically for its vast streaming audience, with platform releases happening only for films Netflix wants to qualify for awards consideration.

Belgrad spent 25 years, and was co-president under Amy Pascal. Upon exiting, he formed 2.0 Entertainment, and produced Gran Turismo and Bad Boys: Ride Or Die.

Said Belgrad: “It will be a privilege to work with the incredible team at Netflix and take on the responsibility of supervising film production for the biggest provider of filmed entertainment in the world. I’m inspired by the chance to work alongside Dan, whose taste as a filmmaker and hitmaker is well proven. From the first time we met about this role, I felt we shared a vision about the future of film at Netflix. As an executive and producer, I’ve been fortunate to work with many of the world’s most talented filmmakers and performers. There is no better place to continue that work than Netflix, whose global reach and resources are unmatched. While it isn’t easy to leave 2.0 Entertainment, the company is in great hands with Sophie and Zack. I’ll watch proudly as they continue to turn out great entertainment.”

Lin said he was “thrilled to welcome Doug to our film team as Vice President of Film. He brings a wealth of experience to the role from his many years as a respected studio executive, producer and co-financier. We will be leaning on Doug’s great creative instincts, his eye for talent, and his deep relationships across the filmmaking and talent community. We can’t wait for him to get started and look forward to his many contributions as we pursue our mission to make best-in-class films across every genre.”