From Rideback to Netflix…
Dan Lin will join Netflix as head of film, according to exclusive information from The Hollywood Reporter.
In addition to The Lego Movie, Lin produced the streaming platform’s latest hit, the live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender. He will replace Scott Stuber, who announced his retirement in January.
Former Disney executive Sean Bailey, Twilight producer Wyck Godfrey and Lin were the frontrunners for the role. Bailey was a top candidate until recent personnel changes at Disney, which led to him leaving the studio after 15 years.
Dan Lin’s Rideback to Netflix
For Lin, going to Netflix wasn’t a clear path. He had strong ties to his own production company Rideback and its non-profit organization Rideback Rise. The film executive was selected for several executive positions, but these never materialized due to his ties to the company. He was in negotiations to buy Warner Boles. DC’s film and television divisions were involved, but questions about the rideback prevented it from happening.
As a result of Lin’s Netflix deal, he will leave Rideback and Jonathan Eirich and Rideback COO Michael Lofaso will become co-CEOs. Lin will be active on the streaming platform on April 1st.
Lin’s previous involvement with Netflix includes the 2017 horror film Death Note and the Oscar-nominated 2019 film The Two Popes. Most recently, as of January 2023, she produced The Last Airbender for Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix.
In a statement, Lynn said, “I have been approached many times over the past 15 years at Rideback, but I could never have imagined retiring until Bella reached out to me with this amazing opportunity.” I was immediately interested because the vision for the Netflix film division aligned so strongly with my own personal and professional values and what we have built at Rideback.”
“Netflix’s film division already has a very strong foundation in place, and we are excited to take it to the next level as we continue to grow this creative community to make Netflix the number one home for filmmakers. ” his statement continued. .
Bajaria further added, “Dan’s experience as an executive and producer has been marked by a consistent ability to attract great filmmakers. But what really caught my attention was the collaborative and creative He founded Rideback, a dynamic community for filmmakers that fosters an inclusive environment.”
“His visionary approach has led to the creation of incubators and residencies, propelled the careers of extraordinary talent, and produced a steady stream of blockbuster films. I can’t wait to inject it into Netflix,” she said.
Lin’s announcement comes on the heels of Netflix’s decision to increase prices due to its large subscription base and overall growth strategy.
About the author
Alexandra Virtucio is a big fan of stories and doesn’t stick to any platform: books, movie series (both TV and streaming, as times have certainly changed), and real life. She spends most of her time reading and watching stories, which she sometimes writes about.
