ESPN cuts several popular personalities as Disney layoffs persist.

ESPN Announces Layoffs of Top On-Air Personalities

In a shocking move, ESPN, the popular sports network owned by Disney, has decided to part ways with some of its most beloved on-air personalities. Around 20 hosts will be let go, according to a memo obtained by The New York Post. This includes big names such as NBA analysts Jeff Van Gundy and Jalen Rose, personality Max Kellerman, NFL broadcaster Keyshawn Johnson, and NFL reporter Suzy Kolber.

ESPN stated, “Given the current environment, ESPN has determined it necessary to identify some additional cost savings in the area of public-facing commentator salaries, and that process has begun.” The network plans to focus on managing costs and negotiating individual contract renewals in the coming months.

The news was delivered to ESPN employees in a five-paragraph note on Friday morning. Other notable employees reportedly being let go include “NFL Countdown” analyst Matt Hasselbeck, NFL draft expert Todd McShay, college basketball analyst LaPhonso Ellis, “SportsCenter” anchor Ashley Brewer, radio host Jason Fitz, and baseball writer Joon Lee.

Suzy Kolber, one of the original anchors of ESPN 2, has had a long and storied career with the network. Jeff Van Gundy, known for his NBA coverage, has been a recognizable voice for ESPN for 16 years. Both have made significant contributions to the company.

ESPN acknowledges that this is a challenging process, as it involves individuals who have had a tremendous impact on the company. However, the network believes that these difficult decisions, based on overall efficiency rather than merit, are necessary to meet financial targets and ensure future growth.

Disney’s Cost-Cutting Measures

ESPN’s parent company, Disney, has been facing its own financial challenges. Earlier this year, Disney laid off around 7,000 employees in an effort to reduce costs. The company has also faced criticism from conservative customers who believe it promotes leftist ideology through its movies and TV shows.

Furthermore, Disney has been involved in contentious culture war battles, particularly with Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The company publicly opposed a parental rights law in Florida that restricts instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity to children between kindergarten and third grade. These actions have eroded trust among some consumers.

Disclosure: The Daily Wire has announced plans for kids entertainment content.

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