Dan Lin, the prolific producer behind successful franchises such as Sherlock Holmes, The Lego Movie, and It, has been appointed as the new head of film at Netflix. He replaces Scott Stuber, who announced his departure in January. Lin will begin his new role on 1 April 2024, reporting to Netflix’s chief content officer Bela Bajaria.
Lin’s appointment follows a period of speculation after Stuber’s announcement. Other names considered for the role included former Disney executive Sean Bailey and former Universal chief Stacey Snider.
Read more: Is ‘Beef’ Getting a Second Season Without Ali Wong and Steven Yeun? Star-Studded Cast Rumored
The producer already has a working relationship with Netflix, having produced the drama The Two Popes and the recently launched, highly successful Avatar: The Last Airbender series.
Lin founded his production company Rideback in 2008 and his films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide. He began his career at Warner Bros., working on films such as Martin Scorsese’s The Departed.
Lin will leave Rideback, handing over leadership to new co-CEOs Jonathan Eirich and Michael LoFaso. Lin commented on the transition:
“While I’ve been approached many times during my past 15 years at Rideback, I could truly never imagine leaving until Bela reached out with this incredible opportunity. Bela’s vision for the Netflix film division immediately interested me as it aligned so strongly with my own personal and professional values and what we have been building at Rideback. It’s always been my aspiration at Rideback to make movies with worldwide appeal and universal themes, and there is no better place to do that than at the company with the widest global audience.”
Read more: Netflix Announces 25 April 2024 Release for Live-Action ‘City Hunter’ Film
Bajaria also commented on the appointment:
“Dan’s experience as both an executive and a producer is marked by a consistent ability to draw in exceptional filmmakers. But what really got my attention was his creation of Rideback, a dynamic community for filmmakers, fostering collaborative and creative environments. His visionary approach has led to the establishment of incubators and residencies, propelling the careers of extraordinary talent, as well as a steady slate of blockbuster films. I can’t wait for Dan to infuse Netflix with his innovation and talent.”
