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Disney Axes 1,000 Staffers in Major Cost Cut
11 Apr
Summary
- One thousand employees to be cut as cost-saving measure by new CEO.
- Layoffs will affect marketing, film, television, and streaming departments.
- Cuts span across Disney brands including Marvel, Hulu, and ESPN.
Disney is initiating a significant cost-saving measure by laying off approximately 1,000 employees, with cuts expected to begin next week. These reductions will most severely impact the marketing, awards, and publicity departments across the company's film, streaming, and television divisions. This move marks the first wave of layoffs under new CEO Josh D'Amaro, who took the helm in March.
All major Disney brands are slated to feel the effects of these layoffs, including Hulu, FX, ESPN, ABC News, and Marvel. The company had previously consolidated its marketing departments in January under Asad Ayaz, who now leads as chief marketing and brand officer. This strategic shift aims to unify the storytelling brand across film, television, streaming, parks, experiences, and sports, aligning with current consumer engagement models.
CEO Josh D'Amaro has emphasized a "One Disney" approach, encouraging close collaboration among teams and embracing technological innovation. While the Parks division has shown strong recent earnings, other areas like Marvel and Pixar faced challenges in 2025. Looking ahead to 2026, Disney has several major film releases planned, including "The Mandalorian and Grogu" and "Avengers: Doomsday."
