Thousands of ESPN layoffs have been expected for months and the third round is slated to begin. This time, on-air talents are going to be on the chopping block along with other staffers. ESPN will cut hosts and anchors who do not hold multiple positions across the network.
While there’s no official word on who will be terminated yet, sources speculate that Suzy Kolber and Steve Young are rumored to be on the list. Both are longtime veterans of the network yet still ESPN is considering replacing them.
The above mentioned, as well as other yet named on-air personalities, could be offered a pay cut or given the option to resign.
Disney, ESPN’s parent company, announced back in February the company would be rolling out three rounds of layoffs. A total of 7,000 employees will be laid off during these phases. Back in April of this year, ESPN laid off 300 staffers.
In a memo sent to staffers last April, Disney stated:
“As we advance as a core segment of Disney, with operational control and financial responsibility, we must further identify ways to be efficient and nimble. We will continue to focus our workforce on initiatives that are most closely aligned with our critical priorities and emphasize decision-making and responsibility deeper into the organization. That said, I do not want to minimize the enormous toll of saying goodbye to dedicated colleagues that have worked tirelessly to strengthen ESPN and deliver for sports fans. The people of ESPN, and their constant resolve to get the job done, to excel and to innovate, have built this place. We will act with compassion, respect for our colleagues, and professionalism as we face these hard circumstances.”
Disney is cutting staff across all divisions in an effort to decrease operational costs to increase quarterly profit margins. The company does not plan to hire replacements for jobs cut to keep company costs down throughout its entertainment department.
This is the third and (hopefully) final round of terminations, although no one knows for sure if there will be additional layoffs towards the end of this month. It is also the first round to include on-air personalities.
Check back with Cord Cutters News as more details about this story emerge.