Soon, Ted Sarandos will step into an acting role — playing himself. The co-CEO of Netflix is set to appear in an episode of “The Studio,” a series by Seth Rogen that combines elements from “Entourage” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Sarandos, known for his intense work ethic and dislike for losing, adds an amusing twist to his cameo on a rival streaming platform. In his key scene, he attends the Golden Globes, where he has an encounter with Rogen’s junior movie executive facing the pressures of competing with Netflix.
“I agreed immediately,” Sarandos says. Contrary to the aloof executive he portrays, he appears friendly and laid-back during our conversation. He becomes animated discussing Hollywood matters, resembling more of an enthusiast than a corporate leader. “Seth shared it with me, and I found it hilarious. I kept asking, ‘Is this an exaggerated version of me?’”
Sarandos was determined to impress the professionals around him. “I was very aware of not messing up my lines,” he admits. “I just didn’t want to hinder the process and cost them money.”
This acknowledgment is uncommon from someone known simply as “Ted” in Hollywood. Sarandos, who doesn’t have a reputation for frugality, has played a pivotal role in transforming Netflix from a DVD rental service into a streaming titan over his 25-year tenure. Once an outsider crashing parties in an entrenched industry, he is now among its biggest power brokers, responsible for hits like “Stranger Things” and “Squid Game.”
During our meeting, Sarandos, now 60, is in an unexpected place: a movie theater. Despite Netflix’s impact on traditional cinema attendance, he remains a fan of the theatrical experience. He facilitated the acquisition of the historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, where Netflix showcases films for awards voters after its renovation.
Sitting in the theater’s green room, stocked with enticing snacks, Sarandos is candid for the next 90 minutes. He discusses a range of topics, including his partnership with the Obamas, encounters with Donald Trump, and his thoughts on Apple’s content strategy. Reflecting on his 25 years at Netflix, he recalls a time when he was tasked with managing a large inventory of DVDs before he even had his own office in the company.
With Netflix now boasting 300 million subscribers and investing $18 billion in content this year, Sarandos faces criticism from detractors who argue he has diminished the industry by promoting binge-watching trends. The absence of a Best Picture Oscar win for Netflix, despite multiple nominations, also indicates lingering animosity in the Academy.
