ENTERTAINMENT/Layoffs—
The new Disney CEO calls it “streamlining” our operations. No matter what you call it. Hundreds of employees are losing their jobs, and that’s downright painful. Some reports say the number is as high as a thousand people being let go. CEO Josh D’Amaro reportedly sent a memo to employees this morning announcing the layoffs were underway and that “impacted employees” are being notified.
The job losses are expected to be concentrated in the marketing divisions of the Burbank-based company. It’s part of a new consolidation structure under Asad Ayaz, chief marketing and brand officer. Also, cuts are happening in other departments, including ESPN, as well as in the company’s studio and television units.
There is a report of an 8 percent reduction in Marvel Entertainment in New York and Marvel Studios in Burbank. Disney’s theme parks, resorts, and cruise lines are apparently being spared in this round of cutbacks. At the end of 2025, the media company reportedly had about 230,000 employees.
