From Netflix Tokyo to Small-Town Japan: Ex-Employee Matthew Kelson's New Life

Business Insider · 2026-10-26
From Netflix Tokyo to Small-Town Japan: Ex-Employee Matthew Kelson's New Life

Matthew Kelson, a former Netflix employee who relocated from Los Angeles to Japan, has found a new path after leaving the streaming giant. Instead of returning to the U.S., Kelson and his wife chose to raise their two children in a small Japanese town outside Tokyo, embracing a lifestyle far removed from the corporate world. The decision highlights a growing trend among expats who prioritize family and community over career advancement in major cities. Kelson's transition from a high-profile role at Netflix to a quieter life in rural Japan underscores the appeal of Japan's countryside for those seeking balance and cultural immersion. While the article does not detail his current occupation, it suggests that Kelson has successfully adapted to local life, offering a compelling example of post-corporate reinvention abroad. For readers considering a similar move, his story serves as both inspiration and a practical case study in navigating life after a major career shift in a foreign country.