New Disney Layoffs Hit Pixar, ESPN and Other Divisions in Streamlining

Key Points:

• The Walt Disney Co. is conducting another round of job cuts across various divisions, including corporate functions, ESPN, Disney Entertainment Television (DET), and film studios, with Pixar and Nat Geo being among the most affected.
• Notable layoffs at ESPN include longtime SportsCenter anchor Karl Ravech and analyst Ryan Clark, though most cuts involve behind-the-scenes staff due to ESPN's integration of NFL Network assets acquired earlier this year.
• ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro emphasized the need to restructure following the NFL acquisition, highlighting the company's commitment to treating affected employees with respect and providing support during the transition.
• This latest round of layoffs is the third in 2024 under CEO Josh D’Amaro’s leadership, as Disney continues to implement the “One Disney” structure and streamline operations amid rapid technological changes.
• D’Amaro has stressed the importance of creating a more agile and technologically enabled workforce to maintain Disney’s creativity and innovation in a fast-evolving industry.