Disney's recent layoffs are part of a broader trend in the media industry, with companies like Fox Entertainment and Warner Bros. Discovery also announcing staff reductions this summer.

These layoffs are part of a planned cost-saving initiative aimed at achieving $7.5 billion in savings, which has resulted in the elimination of approximately 8,000 jobs across the company.

Specifically, Disney Entertainment Television is laying off around 140 employees, which constitutes about 2% of its workforce, as part of this cost-cutting strategy.

National Geographic will experience the most significant impact, with around 60 employees, or 13% of its staff, being laid off.

The layoffs at Disney have been in the works for several months and are part of a broader strategy to streamline operations.

This restructuring comes as traditional media companies face challenges from declining pay-TV subscriptions and a shift in advertising dollars toward digital platforms.

Earlier in the year, Pixar Animation Studios also laid off 175 employees, about 14% of its workforce, as part of a shift in focus towards streaming content.

Following the announcement of these layoffs, Disney's shares saw a slight increase of 1% in afternoon trading.

CEO Bob Iger has highlighted the company's strategy of leveraging digital platforms like Hulu to quickly release new episodes, aiming to aggregate audiences and manage costs effectively.

In addition to layoffs, Disney is reportedly planning to revamp its streaming platform to enhance its appeal and boost viewership.

Disney is scheduled to report its quarterly results next week, but has not provided immediate comments regarding the job cuts.