Ted Sarandos Grilled at Senate Hearing Over Netflix’s ‘Transgender Ideology’ in Kids Content

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During a Senate hearing on antitrust issues Tuesday, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos was challenged by Senator Josh Hawley, who claimed the streaming service pushes “transgender ideology” through shows aimed at children.

Sarandos Denies Netflix Has Political Agenda

Senator Hawley questioned why Netflix seems to feature so many shows and movies for children that include transgender themes.

Sarandos responded, “Netflix has no political agenda of any kind.”

When Senator Hawley questioned him about content he called “extremely sexual and controversial” for children, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos stated that description was incorrect.

After the senator asserted that almost half of the shows for children on Netflix push a transgender viewpoint, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated he had no idea what the claim was based on.

He explained that the platform offers a lot of content for children, saying, “We have millions of hours of kids’ shows… with many different stories and programs to appeal to all kinds of viewers.”

Sarandos also highlighted the advanced tools parents can use to block content they don’t want their children to see.

He also made a point of stating later in the hearing, “We also value the First Amendment.”

Hearing Follows MAGA-Backed Fedflix Report

So, things are heating up between Netflix and conservative groups. Just days ago, the Oversight Project – a branch of the Heritage Foundation – dropped a report they’re calling “Fedflix,” and it’s a pretty harsh critique. Basically, they’re accusing Netflix of using its platform to push a left-leaning agenda. It’s definitely sparked a debate about the streaming giant’s influence on culture.

The report accused Netflix of manipulating millions of Americans and disapproved of its plans to buy Warner Bros. Discovery.

Mike Howell, who leads the Oversight Project, expressed concern about Netflix’s growing power, stating he’d prefer the company to be smaller and have less impact.

Additional concerns include theatrical release, residuals, YouTube comparisons

During the hearing, questions were asked about Netflix’s promise to release films in theaters for at least 45 days, and Sarandos reiterated that commitment.

“I just said I would do that under oath,” Sarandos said.

Concerns about employment and future payments to creators were also brought up, but Sarandos explained it’s a complex issue and will be discussed during the upcoming union contract talks.

Sarandos reiterated his view that Netflix should be seen more like YouTube to avoid being labeled a monopoly. However, a Senator dismissed this comparison, pointing out that YouTube is generally free to use, whereas Netflix requires a paid subscription.

(Note: Senate Hearing details come via Deadline and Variety)

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2026-02-04 00:31