Netflix is reportedly preparing to cut approximately 5% of its global workforce, potentially eliminating around 800 jobs in one of its largest rounds of layoffs since 2022. According to a report published by Puck on October 9, 2026, the streaming giant is planning a significant restructuring that could be announced as early as next week. Netflix has declined to comment, meaning the reductions have not yet been officially confirmed.
The proposed cuts come as Netflix faces growing pressure to increase viewer engagement while continuing to invest heavily in original programming, advertising and live entertainment. Although the company remains one of the world’s leading streaming platforms, investors have raised questions about whether its audience growth can keep pace with rising content expenditure.
How Many Netflix Employees Could Lose Their Jobs?
Netflix reported approximately 16,000 full-time employees at the end of 2025. A 5% reduction based on that figure would affect roughly 800 workers, although Puck estimated approximately 850 potential job losses using a higher workforce estimate.
The exact number remains uncertain, and Netflix has not announced which departments or regions would be affected. The Los Angeles Times reported that creative teams, including employees working on feature films, could be among those impacted.
If implemented, the restructuring would represent Netflix’s biggest workforce reduction since 2022, when the company eliminated approximately 450 positions across two major rounds of layoffs following slowing subscriber growth.
Why Is Netflix Considering Layoffs?
The reported restructuring follows concerns about Netflix’s slowing audience engagement.
Viewing hours increased by only 2% during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. While that still represents growth, the relatively modest increase has attracted attention as Netflix continues investing substantial amounts in content.
Speaking at Bloomberg’s Screentime conference earlier this month, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos acknowledged the challenge.
“Overall, we’re not growing as fast as I want us to, and we’re working on making that move faster,” Sarandos said.
Netflix is also expanding beyond traditional films and television series through live sporting events, advertising, video podcasts and gaming. These investments are intended to attract subscribers and create additional revenue opportunities, but they also place new demands on the company’s resources.
However, Netflix has not officially explained the reported layoffs or linked them to any particular business division.
The company’s next major financial update is scheduled for October 20, when it will report third-quarter earnings. Until Netflix confirms the restructuring, the final number of affected employees and any potential consequences for its upcoming productions remain unknown.
