Netflix’s decision to remove Bela Bajaria from her role as Chief Content Officer has raised questions about the reasons behind the sudden leadership change. A new report suggests that the move came amid increasing pressure over the streaming giant’s business performance. It also explores the criticism surrounding the decision and why some insiders believe Bajaria has become a “scapegoat.”
New report suggests Bela Bajaria became Netflix’s ‘scapegoat’
Netflix’s decision to remove Bela Bajaria as Chief Content Officer has raised questions about whether she was held responsible for problems beyond the company’s programming division. According to a report by Variety, several insiders described her as a potential “scapegoat” amid concerns about slowing user engagement, investor pressure, and layoffs. Netflix announced Peter Rice, the former chairman of general entertainment at the Walt Disney Company, as her successor.
Bajaria’s departure follows a major reorganization of Netflix’s content leadership in 2020. That year, Cindy Holland, who had overseen successful series including House of Cards, Stranger Things and The Crown, exited the company. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos subsequently placed English-language and international programming under Bajaria, expanding her responsibilities.
During her tenure, Bajaria helped expand Netflix’s international operations, including the opening of nearly two dozen overseas offices. She also backed local-language productions and the company’s move into live entertainment through deals involving WWE and the NFL. Sources cited by Variety said these live offerings had become important attractions for subscribers on Netflix’s ad-supported plan.
However, some insiders questioned whether she could fairly be held accountable for Netflix’s financial challenges. One source argued, “People always blame the content,” before adding that laying off 1,000 employees suggested a deeper problem with Netflix’s business model. Another source challenged the focus on engagement, saying, “It’s that the only lever to pull for revenue growth is raising the subscriber price. How’s that Bela’s problem? Where’s the CFO and the CEO?”
The company’s awards performance has also weakened. Netflix won 16 Primetime Emmy Awards this year, down from 30 in 2025 and its lowest total since 2016.
