Disney Restructures TV Units: ABC Signature Merges with 20th Television, 75 Jobs Cut

October 3, 2024
Disney Restructures TV Units: ABC Signature Merges with 20th Television, 75 Jobs Cut
  • Disney has announced a major reorganization of its television units, resulting in the closure of ABC Signature and its merger into 20th Television.

  • As part of this restructuring, approximately 75 positions have been eliminated from ABC's television stations and news division.

  • The layoffs were evenly distributed between ABC News and ABC's local TV stations, ensuring that programming will not be impacted.

  • Almin Karamehmedovic, president of ABC News, acknowledged the staff reductions in a memo, highlighting the need for the organization to adapt to the evolving media landscape.

  • This round of layoffs reflects broader challenges facing the media industry, including changing viewing habits and declining advertising revenues.

  • Disney is also merging the scripted drama and comedy teams of ABC and Hulu, consolidating efforts in response to industry trends.

  • These changes come after Disney previously announced plans to eliminate 7,000 jobs in 2023, following Bob Iger's return to the company.

  • Josh Sussman has been promoted to lead the new combined business affairs team for Disney Television Studios as part of the reorganization.

  • Erin Wehrenberg, head of comedy for ABC, is leaving the company, with her team temporarily reporting to Sethi during this transition.

  • The restructuring follows a trend of consolidation in the industry, particularly after Disney's acquisition of Fox assets in 2019.

  • Disney has implemented cuts across various segments of the company recently, including its corporate structure and TV studios.

  • Despite the transition to 20th Television, ABC Signature remains active with new series like 'High Potential' and the ongoing success of 'Grey’s Anatomy.'

Summary based on 8 sources


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