Disney’s ABC News Group and Disney Entertainment Networks announced layoffs affecting nearly 200 employees, which accounts for approximately 6% of their workforce. The majority of those impacted are from ABC News, with many employees based in New York learning of their job status earlier that day.
This restructuring comes as part of a broader organizational shift within ABC News. The production teams for the shows "20/20," "Nightline," and all three hours of "Good Morning America" will be consolidated under a single leadership structure. Simone Swink has been appointed to oversee this unified group, which also involves merging the production staff of "GMA3" into the larger team.
In addition to the layoffs, Disney is discontinuing its political site, 538, which employed around 15 staff members. Moving forward, polling and political data analysis will be integrated into the ABC News brand. Moreover, the company plans to merge its digital and social operations, aligning digital editorial and social media teams with news-gathering efforts across its various platforms.
The Wall Street Journal was the first to report on these developments, which reflect Disney's ongoing efforts to streamline its operations under CEO Bob Iger. This restructuring aims to enhance efficiency within its news divisions, although the company has not yet provided an official comment regarding the layoffs.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, these changes at Disney's ABC News Group signify a significant shift in personnel and operational strategy, indicating a response to current industry demands and economic conditions.