Disney has initiated a new wave of layoffs impacting its cable television networks and ABC News operations, marking another step in the company’s ongoing efforts to streamline its traditional media businesses amid shifting industry dynamics. The cuts, which took place on Tuesday, primarily targeted Disney Entertainment Television, with National Geographic experiencing some of the most significant reductions, according to Deadline.
This latest round of job reductions comes as the entertainment giant continues to adapt to declining linear television viewership and rising competition from streaming platforms. Under the leadership of CEO Josh D’Amaro, who assumed the role earlier in 2026, Disney has emphasized operational efficiency and resource management to support long-term creativity and innovation. The company had previously signaled plans for such adjustments in the spring, following broader restructuring efforts that affected various divisions across the organization.
Sources indicate that just under 100 employees were affected across Disney Entertainment Television. National Geographic bore a substantial portion of these losses, including the departure of Charlie Parsons, who had served as senior vice president of development for more than 15 years. Parsons contributed to numerous high-profile projects during his tenure, such as major documentary series and live events that highlighted the network’s signature blend of exploration, science, and storytelling. Other development executives and roles in casting and talent relations at the network were also impacted.
The National Geographic brand, known for its in-depth programming on nature, culture, and global issues, has faced multiple rounds of adjustments in recent years as Disney integrates it more closely with its overall television strategy. These changes reflect broader challenges in the cable sector, where audience fragmentation and advertising pressures have prompted media companies to reassess their linear channel portfolios. Despite the reductions, the network is expected to maintain its commitment to factual content, though with potentially leaner production models moving forward.
ABC News also saw a smaller number of positions eliminated as part of the same initiative. The news division, which encompasses broadcast operations and digital platforms, has been navigating its own set of pressures, including evolving news consumption habits and the need for greater integration with entertainment assets. This includes ongoing evaluations of programming structures and resource allocation to enhance efficiency without compromising core journalistic output. Earlier in the year, similar measures had already touched ABC News and related units, underscoring a sustained focus on cost management.
The timing of these layoffs aligns with Disney’s wider corporate strategy under D’Amaro, who has overseen efforts to consolidate functions and prioritize high-impact areas. In the spring, the company implemented larger-scale reductions totaling around 1,000 positions, heavily concentrated in marketing, studios, ESPN, and technology teams. Those moves were part of a push to create a more agile workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving media landscape, where streaming services like Disney+ continue to drive growth while traditional TV faces headwinds.
At National Geographic, the exits include several directors in development and long-serving professionals with backgrounds from other networks. This follows previous adjustments at the brand, where teams adapted to post-acquisition integration after Disney’s purchase of 21st Century Fox assets. The network’s programming slate, featuring acclaimed titles on wildlife, history, and human achievement, is likely to see continued development but potentially through more selective or collaborative models.
ABC News’ reductions, though limited, contribute to a pattern of measured belt-tightening. The division has explored consolidations in long-form programming and digital initiatives to better align with audience preferences. Overall workforce impacts across these units represent a small percentage of the total employees in the affected groups, yet they highlight the company’s determination to operate with precision.
These developments occur against a backdrop of strong performance in Disney’s other segments. Theme parks and experiences have rebounded robustly, while streaming subscriber numbers have grown steadily. However, the traditional television side, encompassing cable networks and broadcast news, requires ongoing optimization to remain viable. Analysts expect further refinements as Disney evaluates how best to allocate resources in an environment where content consumption increasingly favors personalized, digital-first experiences.
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