Disney Begins Layoffs of 1,000 Employees Under New CEO Josh D’Amaro
The Walt Disney Company has initiated a round of layoffs affecting approximately 1,000 employees as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and enhance agility. Announced by new Chief Executive Officer Josh D’Amaro, who succeeded Bob Iger in February 2026, the cuts target various divisions including traditional television businesses like ESPN, the movie studio, product and technology teams, and certain corporate functions. This move follows the recent consolidation of Disney’s marketing division in January. D’Amaro stated that these measures are necessary to foster a technologically-enabled workforce capable of meeting future industry demands while maintaining the creativity fans expect. This reduction adds to previous cuts, notably the 8,000 jobs eliminated in 2022 after Iger's return. As of late 2025, Disney employed around 230,000 people. The layoffs reflect a wider trend of contraction in Hollywood, with competitors like Paramount Skydance and Sony Pictures Entertainment also reducing staff amid mergers and market pressures. The announcement underscores the ongoing challenges media giants face in adapting to rapid technological changes and shifting consumer behaviors in the entertainment sector.
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Disney Begins Layoffs of 1,000 Employees Under New CEO Josh D’Amaro
The Walt Disney Company has initiated a round of layoffs affecting approximately 1,000 employees as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and enhance agility. Announced by new Chief Executive Officer Josh D’Amaro, who succeeded Bob Iger in February 2026, the cuts target various divisions including traditional television businesses like ESPN, the movie studio, product and technology teams, and certain corporate functions. This move follows the recent consolidation of Disney’s marketing division in January. D’Amaro stated that these measures are necessary to foster a technologically-enabled workforce capable of meeting future industry demands while maintaining the creativity fans expect. This reduction adds to previous cuts, notably the 8,000 jobs eliminated in 2022 after Iger's return. As of late 2025, Disney employed around 230,000 people. The layoffs reflect a wider trend of contraction in Hollywood, with competitors like Paramount Skydance and Sony Pictures Entertainment also reducing staff amid mergers and market pressures. The announcement underscores the ongoing challenges media giants face in adapting to rapid technological changes and shifting consumer behaviors in the entertainment sector.
AP News