ESPN is planning on laying off approximately 300 employees and eliminating 200 positions that are currently open, as the pandemic continues to create headwinds for the Disney-owned sports media company.
CEO Jimmy Pitaro said he made the call on layoffs after other cost-saving measures were implemented, including furloughs, budget cuts and savings measures in operations and production.
“However, building a successful future in a changing world means facing hard choices,” Pitaro said. “We are parting ways with some exceptional team members – some of whom have been here for a long time – and all of whom have made important contributions to ESPN.”
“Prior to the pandemic, we had been deeply engaged in strategizing how best to position ESPN for future success amidst tremendous disruption in how fans consume sports,” he added. “The pandemic’s significant impact on our business clearly accelerated those forward-looking discussions.”
Although no details were given as to when to expect these changes, Pitaro said more details will emerge in coming weeks.
