Netflix’s Ted Sarandos Brushes Off Speculation About Disney CEO Role
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently made it clear that he is not considering the top job at Disney as the company looks for a successor to Bob Iger. Speaking at the WSJ Tech Live conference, Sarandos mentioned that the idea of taking on the role at Disney is not something he is currently contemplating. When asked if he would entertain a call from James Gorman, who is set to become the chair of the Disney board and head of the succession planning committee, Sarandos responded that it is not on his mind.
Having been part of Netflix for approximately 25 years, Sarandos expressed his enthusiasm for the work they are doing. He highlighted the remarkable journey of Netflix, from its early days of mailing out physical DVDs to its current position as a leading streaming platform with nearly 300 million subscribers worldwide. Sarandos reflected on the company’s growth and potential for further expansion, emphasizing the continuous evolution of consumer engagement and the exciting prospects ahead.
The succession planning at Disney has garnered attention from both Hollywood and Wall Street, with speculation surrounding potential internal candidates. While no formal announcement has been made yet, the anticipation is high for the reveal of Bob Iger’s successor in early 2026, coinciding with the end of his contract.
As the co-CEO of Netflix alongside Greg Peters, Sarandos praised the collaborative dynamic between them. He highlighted the effectiveness of their partnership, with Peters focusing on technological aspects while Sarandos oversees content creation. Sarandos emphasized the importance of fostering a company culture where both tech and creative employees feel empowered and valued.
Discussing Netflix’s expanding ventures, Sarandos touched upon their foray into live sports, including upcoming NFL games and a partnership with WWE for weekly shows. He emphasized the unique value proposition that Netflix brings to sports leagues and expressed confidence in the potential success of these collaborations.
Sarandos also hinted at the possibility of more immersive experiential installations globally, building on the popularity of temporary live experiences like the Stranger Things drive-in and the Bridgerton Ball. He acknowledged the consumer appeal of such events and the opportunity to scale them for broader engagement.
When asked about series he wished Netflix had produced, Sarandos mentioned shows like The Bear on FX and Ted Lasso, acknowledging their success and impact on viewers. He expressed admiration for the storytelling and resonance of these series, reflecting on the diverse content landscape in the streaming industry.
In conclusion, Sarandos provided insights into Netflix’s strategic direction, collaborative leadership model, and innovative ventures, underscoring the company’s commitment to delivering compelling content and immersive experiences to a global audience.
