Netflix sacks communications head over the use of N-word
What's the story
On-demand video streaming platform Netflix has fired its head of communications over his use of the 'N-word'. In an internal memo, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings apologized for not acting earlier. Meanwhile, the guilty party, Jonathan Friedland himself took to Twitter to apologize for his use of the offensive word. Notably, Friedland had been in Netflix since 2011. Here are the details.
The incidents
Friedland had failed to heed the first warning
Hastings said that Friedland had used the offensive word on at least two occasions. Friedland's first use of the word came at a public relations meeting about the use of sensitive words, following which several people warned of him of impropriety. Although Friedland apologized then, he used the word a few days later again, this time at a meeting of black employees in Netflix.
Twitter Post
Jonathan Friedland apologizes over Twitter
I feel awful about the distress this lapse caused to people at a company I love and where I want everyone to feel included and appreciated. I feel honored to have built a brilliant and diverse global team and to have been part of our collective adventure.
— jonathan friedland (@jsf33) June 22, 2018
Acknowledgement
Despite being sacked, Friedland got his due credit
Friedland's contribution to Netflix, however, was acknowledged by Hastings. "Jonathan has been a great contributor and he built a diverse global team creating awareness for Netflix, strengthening our reputation around the world, and helping make us into the successful company we are today...Unfortunately, his lack of judgment in this area was too big for him to remain," wrote Hastings in an internal memo.