Disney Implements Global Layoffs Amid Cost-Cutting Efforts

The Walt Disney Company has initiated another round of layoffs, impacting several hundred employees worldwide.

 

This move is part of the company's ongoing efforts to streamline operations and reduce costs.

 

The affected departments include marketing for both film and television, TV publicity, casting and development, and corporate financial operations.

 

While individual roles are being eliminated, no entire teams are being disbanded.

 

Employees were notified of these changes on Monday.

 

In March 2025, Disney reduced its workforce by approximately 200 positions, representing about 6% of the division's staff.

 

These cuts were primarily within ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks, reflecting the challenges faced by the linear TV business.

 

These layoffs are part of Disney's broader strategy to enhance efficiency and focus on streaming services, aiming for profitability in this sector.

 

As of its most recent annual report, the Burbank-based company employs 233,000 people globally, with 171,000 based in the U.S.

 

A company representative stated, "We continually evaluate ways to invest in our businesses and more effectively manage our resources and costs to fuel the state-of-the-art creativity and innovation that consumers value and expect from Disney."

 

In 2023, upon his return as CEO, Bob Iger announced a plan to cut 7,000 jobs as part of a strategic realignment aimed at saving $5.5 billion.

 

This restructuring was implemented in multiple phases over several months.

 

Despite these cost-cutting measures, Disney reported strong profits and revenue in the second quarter of 2025, driven by successful domestic theme parks and growing streaming service subscriptions.

 

Additionally, Disney's film division has seen major box office successes with movies like "Thunderbolts" and "Lilo & Stitch."

 

Investors responded positively, with Disney shares rising slightly during midday trading.

 

These ongoing layoffs reflect Disney's efforts to adapt to the evolving media landscape and maintain its position as a leader in the entertainment industry.