Jinny Howe to take up role of veteran exec, who is stepping down after 14 years with the streamer
Netflix has reorganised its North American scripted team, with long-standing exec Peter Friedlander departing and Jinny Howe promoted.
Howe becomes head of scripted series in the US and Canada, with a vast remit across the streamer’s development and current programming line-up.
She will also work across shows coming out of Netflix’s overall deals and reports into chief content officer Bela Bajaria.
Howe was most recently head of drama in the region and worked on tentpoles including Bridgerton, having joined the streamer in 2018.
Before that she spent more than a decade at John Wells Productions. Howe had been reporting into Friedlander, who is stepping down after 14 years at the company.
Friedlander was Netflix’s first staff member to focus purely on originals for the SVoD giant after joining in 2011, taking up his most recent North American remit in 2020.
He has overseen a raft of Netflix hits ranging from House of Cards and Black Mirror to Stranger Things, Emily in Paris and Wednesday.
Bajaria said: “Jinny brings an incredible energy and warmth to everything she does, and her creative instincts and deep industry relationships make her an inspiring leader for our scripted series team in the US and Canada.
“She has a knack for championing bold, distinctive storytelling and building genuine creative partnerships, which have led to some of our most beloved originals like Bridgerton, Beef, and The Diplomat.
“Jinny is also genuinely fun to work with — spirited, quick-witted, and always ready with a food analogy for any occasion. (Everyone on the team knows and loves her for coining the term ‘gourmet cheeseburger!’)
“I can’t wait to see how she continues to shape our shows with her signature style and infectious enthusiasm.”
Howe said: “I’m incredibly honoured to step into this role to lead our powerhouse series team, and to work with some of the most visionary storytellers and artists in the business, whose creativity and passion inspire me everyday.
“My past seven years at Netflix have taught me the importance of leading with heart, integrity, and curiosity, and I’m constantly moved by how our shows can connect with so many people around the world.
“I’m so grateful to Bela for her unwavering support, and for always pushing us to be fearless and bold in all that we do.
“I’m excited to build on the strong foundation and momentum that Peter has established, and to continue the stellar work that is already underway with our amazing teams.”
Friedlander added: “This has truly been the ride of a lifetime. Joining as the very first employee on the original series team and witnessing this company’s incredible journey — growing into one of the most beloved entertainment brands in the world — has been the thrill of my career.”
Friedlander gave “special thanks” to Howe. “Watching her rise has been a privilege, and I know I’m leaving the company in the best hands with her at the helm.”
US trade Deadline broke the news.
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