Disney Cuts Nearly 200 Jobs at ABC News and Entertainment Networks

Approximately 200 jobs are being eliminated from ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks due to economic challenges in the traditional TV industry, according to a source who is informed about the decision. This reduction accounts for around 6% of the division’s total workforce.

ABC News is facing a significant restructuring, with data-focused news platform 538 closing down, teams from Nightline and 20/20 being combined, and the three hours of Good Morning America coming under the same lead producer, Simone Swink. Additionally, the company is merging its digital and social media departments. In simpler terms, ABC News is making major changes including shutting down 538, combining Nightline and 20/20 teams, and unifying Good Morning America under one producer (Simone Swink), as well as merging their online and social media operations.

According to reports by both the Wall Street Journal and Status Newsletter, Disney’s entertainment networks are set to experience changes in their programming strategies and schedules. Among these networks are FX and Freeform, which fall under Disney’s umbrella. The initial report about potential cuts came from ABC News.

ABC News made job reductions during the fall season, affecting approximately 75 positions. They appointed Almin Karamehmedovic as their president back in August.

In simple terms, television news divisions are struggling to adapt to the shifting economic landscape of TV, as corporate structures become more consolidated alongside local TV stations and the importance of network news presidents has diminished compared to their heyday in television. Last September, Disney made headlines by announcing significant job cuts that were driven by structural changes.

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2025-03-05 17:55