Disney Lays Off Hundreds across Film, TV, and Finance amid cost-cutting efforts
As Disney restructures for the streaming era, hundreds lose jobs across key divisions; a bold move balancing innovation, efficiency, and survival in a shifting entertainment landscape.
The Walt Disney Company began another round of layoffs for some hundreds of employees globally. The cuts targeted the Disney Entertainment division, including film and television marketing, publicity, casting, development, and corporate finance units. The move is part of Disney's general plan to streamline operations. Disney is responding to the effect of declining traditional television audiences. The layoffs are Disney's attempt to remain competitive amid a changing media landscape.
These terminations follow the announcement by CEO Bob Iger of 7,000 job cuts in 2023 to conserve $5.5 billion. While Disney's streaming offerings have achieved profitability in recent periods, traditional media continues to lag behind. Cost-cutting remains one of the core strategies of the firm. Disney is looking to balance growth in digital with more conservative cost management. Profits in streaming alone have not been enough to stabilize its financial model.
Disney Layoffs reflect shift from cable to streaming in 2025 restructuring
Previously in March 2025, Disney also eliminated 200 jobs, including jobs at ABC News and other network divisions. The March layoffs touched both executive and support staff. The total effect has been significant across Disney's entertainment entities. The moves are intended to mold the business to evolving content consumption trends. The layoffs are a sign of the diminishing influence of cable and linear television.
The new wave of job cuts targets workers in various locations, with many of them being in the United States. Disney stated that no whole departments were being shut down. Instead, selective reductions were made to drive efficiency. Although challenging, such actions are viewed by the company as requisite. The management highlighted the imperatives of realigning teams to reflect shifting Disney goals.
Disney growth in streaming and parks eases impact of 2025 layoffs
Despite the layoffs, Disney reported better-than-expected earnings in May 2025. Bright spots included strong numbers from Disney+ and continued growth in theme parks. The performances were helpful in bolstering investor confidence, driving the company's share price higher. Management views the performance as a validation of their long-term strategy. Financial strength in core businesses is working to offset media segment weaknesses.
Looking ahead, Disney continues to invest in its Parks, Experiences, and Products business. Disney just announced a new theme park project in Abu Dhabi. The expansion is an indication of Disney's ambition to expand its global footprint. Diversification is the key to withstanding industry disruption. Although the layoffs are dominating the headlines today, Disney's long-term vision remains ambitious.
