Netflix hires Disney+ unscripted boss

Dan Silver is set to leave his role as VP of non-fiction originals at Disney+ to join Netflix as its director of documentary feature films.

Dan Silver

Silver is leaving the Mouse House’s streaming service after a year in the role, having previously served as head of platforms and content/new media at Disney-owned Marvel Entertainment.

At Netflix, Silver will report to Lisa Nishimura, VP, original documentary and independent features. The move was first reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

At Disney+, Silver oversees documentaries and docuseries, unscripted formats and all variety and specials, which have included The Imagineering Story, Muppets Now and Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge.

Prior to Marvel Entertainment, Silver was the executive producer for ABC News Digital where he oversaw ABC News’ entire digital editorial team. Before ABC News, Silver was the multi-Emmy-winning senior director of development at ESPN Films.

Both streaming giants have made major moves in the unscripted space, with Netflix in particular commissioning a range of formats including docuseries, true crime and gameshows.

Netflix has been increasingly ambitious with its factual programming and has made a series of moves to find talent for its service, including hiring natural history icon Sir David Attenborough to front its wildlife show Our Planet.