In a surprising revelation at the Wall Street Journal’s Tech Live event, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos shared a behind-the-scenes story about how the hit series Nobody Wants This almost didn’t land on the streaming giant’s platform. According to Sarandos, the showrunners had shopped the project around to multiple networks, only to be passed over time and time again before finally turning to Netflix as a last resort.

But here’s the twist: what could have been a setback became the show’s saving grace.

Sarandos, speaking with WSJ Editor in Chief Emma Tucker, explained that Nobody Wants This might have looked very different had it been picked up by one of the other networks. “It would have been a different show entirely,” he admitted, highlighting Netflix’s unique ability to take creative risks that other platforms simply won’t.

So, what makes Netflix such a distinct player in this space? Let’s break it down.

The Power of Creative Freedom at Netflix

One of Netflix’s biggest selling points for creators is the freedom it offers. With more traditional networks, shows are often constrained by strict guidelines, focus groups, or the need to cater to advertisers. But at Netflix, the rules are different. The streaming giant has built a reputation for embracing bold ideas, giving writers and showrunners the space to push boundaries and tell the stories they’re passionate about.

For Nobody Wants This, this flexibility was crucial. The series, which blends dark comedy with heavy social commentary, might have been watered down or altered to fit the mold of a more traditional network’s programming slate. Instead, Netflix allowed the creators to remain true to their vision—one that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Why “Last Place” Sometimes Means Best Place

It’s often said that rejection can lead to opportunity, and that seems to be the case here. The idea that Netflix was the last stop for the showrunners might sound disheartening, but in the end, it was the perfect fit. Netflix’s data-driven approach and ability to target niche audiences meant that the platform could zero in on the exact viewers who would appreciate the show’s unique tone and themes.

And that’s a key part of what makes Netflix so successful: it doesn’t need every show to appeal to everyone. By allowing creators to make exactly what they want, Netflix cultivates passionate fanbases that other networks might overlook. Nobody Wants This may have been a risky project for traditional television, but Netflix’s commitment to diverse storytelling gave it a home where it could thrive.

A New Era for Content

Sarandos’ comments about the series also speak to a broader trend in entertainment. As the media landscape evolves, more and more creators are turning to streaming platforms as their go-to choice. Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime have shown that they’re willing to bet on unconventional ideas that don’t always fit the tried-and-true formulas of network TV.

And for viewers, this is great news. We’re living in a golden age of content, where fresh voices are being amplified, and unique perspectives are finding audiences that were once hard to reach. Shows like Nobody Wants This are a testament to that shift.

The Takeaway

The story behind Nobody Wants This is more than just a tale of a show that almost didn’t make it. It’s a reminder that sometimes the projects that face the most resistance can end up having the biggest impact. And when you pair a bold vision with the right platform—one that’s willing to take creative risks—the results can be groundbreaking.

As Sarandos noted, if another company had produced Nobody Wants This, it would have been a different show. But thanks to Netflix’s willingness to embrace innovation and push the envelope, it became something unforgettable.

So next time you see a project that everyone else passes on, remember: sometimes the best place for it is the last place you’d expect.