Los Angeles, CA — Netflix is determined to minimize disruptions to its Los Angeles-based productions in the wake of the devastating wildfires that have ravaged areas like Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Malibu. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos emphasized the streaming giant’s commitment to supporting the city’s creative workforce during a turbulent time for Hollywood, following years of economic challenges.
“The hardest-hit areas of these fires are home to countless individuals we collaborate with daily, both above and below the line,” Sarandos said during Netflix’s Q4 2024 earnings call. “We’re doing everything we can to aid relief efforts while ensuring that those who can get back to work do so safely.”
Netflix remains optimistic, with Sarandos confirming there will be “no meaningful delays in project deliveries or cash flow impact this year.” The company’s focus, he said, is on keeping productions on track while maintaining safety for its crews.
A Challenging Road for Hollywood
The wildfires come after a series of challenges that have tested the resilience of the entertainment industry. From COVID-19 shutdowns to the dual Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes, and now the wildfires, the city’s production community has been hit hard. According to a recent FilmLA report, production in Los Angeles was down over 30% compared to five-year averages in 2024, highlighting the prolonged struggle to regain pre-pandemic momentum.
Despite these hurdles, there are glimmers of hope. FilmLA noted a 6.2% increase in shoot days across Greater Los Angeles in the last quarter of 2024, marking a positive shift after nearly three years of declines.
Netflix’s Role in Hollywood’s Recovery
Sarandos reiterated Netflix’s commitment to sustaining jobs and ensuring that LA remains a vibrant production hub. “This industry has endured a tough few years,” he said. “It’s vital that we avoid further delays, prioritize safety, and keep the lights on for those who rely on these jobs.”
The company is actively working to address the immediate challenges posed by the fires while maintaining its ambitious slate of productions. For Netflix, this means not only focusing on the projects themselves but also on supporting the broader ecosystem of local crew, talent, and vendors that power Hollywood.
A Call to Action for the Industry
As Hollywood braces for the aftermath of the fires, the entertainment community faces a pivotal moment. Netflix’s approach underscores the importance of leadership during crises—not just in maintaining production schedules, but also in ensuring the well-being of the workforce that makes the magic happen.
For the countless Angelenos who have built their lives and careers in the industry, the fires are yet another reminder of the precarious balance between economic opportunity and environmental vulnerability. As Sarandos highlighted, the stakes are higher than ever: “It’s about keeping the heart of this industry beating, even in the face of adversity.”
With production beginning to recover, the actions of companies like Netflix could set the tone for Hollywood’s resilience and its commitment to its home in Los Angeles.
