Disney to cut several hundred jobs, Variety reports

• Disney employed approximately 231,000 people as of fiscal year-end 2025, with 172,000 in the US and 59,000 internationally
• The company previously cut about 1,000 positions in April 2024 across marketing and other divisions, and eliminated 7,000 jobs in 2023 as part of a $5.5 billion cost-saving initiative under former CEO Bob Iger
• Josh D'Amaro took over as CEO in March and has overseen multiple C-suite changes while facing pressures from AI disruption, weakening box office performance, and intense streaming competition

Disney Job Cuts Summary

Key Development:

Walt Disney is implementing layoffs affecting several hundred employees across multiple divisions, including human resources and IT departments, according to Variety. The company has not officially commented on the report.

Leadership Context:

The cuts come under new CEO Josh D'Amaro, who assumed leadership in March 2025. Since taking charge, D'Amaro has overseen significant C-suite changes, including appointing Paul Roeder, a 25-year company veteran, as chief communications officer.

Workforce Scale:

Disney employed approximately 231,000 people as of fiscal year-end 2025, with 172,000 in the United States and 59,000 internationally.

Recent Layoff History:

• April 2025: Eliminated approximately 1,000 positions across marketing, studio, television, ESPN, products, technology, and corporate functions following a January marketing reorganization
• 2024: Cut several hundred positions in film/TV marketing, publicity, casting, and development
• 2023: Eliminated 7,000 jobs under former CEO Bob Iger as part of a $5.5 billion cost-saving initiative

Market Challenges:

D'Amaro is navigating Disney through significant industry headwinds, including:

• Declining box office revenue
• Intensifying competition from streaming rivals
• Transformation driven by artificial intelligence

Market Implications:

The ongoing restructuring signals Disney's continued focus on cost optimization amid challenging entertainment industry conditions. Investors should monitor whether these efficiency measures translate into improved profitability while the company adapts to evolving consumer preferences and competitive pressures in streaming and traditional media.