Trump, writing on Truth Social on Friday, questioned whether Hastings was “forced” off the board, adding a political edge to what was already a consequential week for the world’s largest streaming platform.
The Los Gatos, California-based company said Hastings, who helped turn Netflix from a DVD-by-mail outfit into a global streaming powerhouse, will step down from the board when his term ends in June.
Hastings, who stepped down from the CEO role in 2023 but stayed on as executive chairman, framed the move as a transition toward philanthropy.
Netflix noted that his decision is not tied to any disagreement.
Hastings is one of Silicon Valley's most prominent Democratic donors, with a long history of backing liberal causes and candidates. He has also been openly critical of Trump in the past, once warning that his presidency could damage the country.
That political profile potentially makes him an easy target, with Trump having targeted corporate leaders in the past.