Netflix is urging its corporate recruiters to avoid commenting on comedian Dave Chappelle’s standup special “The Closer” and distributing talking points on how to handle questions about the controversial content, according to a leaked memo. The memo surfaced months after Chappelle’s latest Netflix comedy special sparked protests and an employee walkout last October. Chappelle was accused of making transphobic remarks during his standup routine, which included the comedian’s declaration that “gender is a fact.” In the memo, which was first obtained by The Verge, Netflix instructs members of its talent acquisition team to “avoid commenting directly on The Closer, since Netflix is not commenting publicly about it.” The streaming giant also provides various potential responses and talking points, such as affirming the company’s commitment to inclusion and representation for all groups. “Find a way to respectfully end and move on from the topic if you’re pressed further on the topic in areas not covered in the talking points,” the memo says. At least two transgender engineers quit Netflix during the dispute over Chappelle’s comedy special last fall, according to the Verge. B. Pagels-Minor, a third trans employee, was fired. The company alleged Pagels-Minor leaked sensitive information. The leaked memo includes guidance on how recruiters should discuss employee terminations stemming from the dispute. “We have let go of an employee for sharing confidential, commercially sensitive information outside the company,” the memo says. “We understand they may have been motivated by disappointment and hurt with Netflix, but maintaining a culture of trust and transparency is core to our company. Netflix did not immediately return the Post’s request for comment on the memo. During the height of the controversy, protestors and some employees called on Netflix to remove Chappelle’s comedy special. But Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos pushed back in a memo to employees, arguing the special was an example of artistic freedom. “As with our other talent, we work hard to support their creative freedom — even though this means there will always be content on Netflix some people believe is harmful,” Sarandos said.
