Netflix names former Disney executive Rice as new content chief as Bajaria departs
Netflix has appointed former Disney executive Peter Rice as its new chief content officer, replacing Bela Bajaria. The move coincides with a major restructuring that includes laying off 6% of the company's workforce.
Why it matters
This leadership change and workforce reduction signal a significant strategic pivot for the streaming giant as it navigates a competitive entertainment market.
Netflix names former Disney executive Rice as new content chief as Bajaria departs left FILE PHOTO: A man stands next to a logo of Netflix during an event in Mumbai, India, February 29, 2024. REUTERS/Francis Mascarenhas/File Photo FRANCIS MASCARENHAS REUTERS https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/qk92hp/article71590959.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/2026-10-14T133503Z_405461333_RC27C6A0RDQJ_RTRMADP_3_NETFLIX-LAYOFFS.JPG FRANCIS MASCARENHAS FILE PHOTO: A man stands next to a logo of Netflix during an event in Mumbai, India, February 29, 2024. REUTERS/Francis Mascarenhas/File Photo Mr. Rice will oversee Netflix's content strategy from October 26, including series, films and live events across regions Netflix said on Thursday (October 15, 2026) it appointed former Disney executive Peter Rice as chief content officer, succeeding Bela Bajaria, who is leaving after nearly a decade at the streaming platform. Mr.
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8 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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