Netflix is once again under fire as a newly amended lawsuit from former executive Amy Takahara sheds light on the streamer’s allegedly toxic workplace culture, including claims of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Takahara, who served as Director of Kids & Family Acquisitions and Co-Commissions, alleges she was terminated after confronting a superior over misconduct.
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, specifically names Edward Horasz, current Director of Kids & Tween Live Action and Content Licensing, as a central figure in fostering an oppressive, misogynistic environment. Her claims follow a separate, ongoing lawsuit filed by Nhu-Y-Phan, a former Netflix labor relations executive, who also alleges retaliation for reporting internal misconduct.
The Allegations
In her 33-page filing, Takahara outlines a disturbing culture at Netflix in which:
-
Horasz allegedly took credit for her work, including ideas and pitches.
-
He dismissed her creative input by stating she couldn’t “handle male-based shows” and should focus on “female-based relationship shows.”
-
He made offensive remarks such as “lesbian agenda,” “witches with titties,” and mocked pregnant employees.
-
He reportedly claimed he needed to hire more men to uplevel his team, suggesting an intentional gender bias.
Takahara claims her multiple complaints to HR, including a December 2024 meeting with Senior HR Business Partner Patti Medina, were ignored, and she was ultimately offered severance instead of support or internal reassignment.
“Netflix’s subsequent protection of Mr. Horasz… reinforced the illegal message that Netflix would tolerate bias and harassment,” the lawsuit states.
Netflix’s Response
When contacted by Deadline, a Netflix spokesperson dismissed Takahara’s claims, stating:
See More ...
“Ms. Takahara’s position was eliminated after the team was downsized. Her claims lack merit, and we believe the proceedings will prove it.”
This is nearly identical to Netflix’s earlier response regarding Phan’s lawsuit, in which they also claimed the allegations lacked merit and vowed to defend the matter vigorously.
Legal Implications and Damages
Takahara is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages and is requesting a jury trial. The suit argues that:
“Defendants recklessly, maliciously, and oppressively violated Ms. Takahara’s constitutional, statutory, and common law rights under California law.”
The case emphasizes Netflix’s alleged institutional failure to take corrective action, and its conscious disregard for the safety and rights of employees, especially women.
A Pattern of Workplace Concerns
This lawsuit adds to a growing pattern of complaints from former employees who accuse Netflix of cultivating a cutthroat environment, where credit-stealing, retaliation, and lack of accountability are normalized.
The streaming giant, known for its “adapt or perish” culture, now faces mounting legal and reputational pressure to address these systemic concerns and implement meaningful reform.
