Disney Layoffs Loom Amid Paramount's Possible California Exit

Puck News reported on September 17 that Disney is planning more staff reductions by the end of this month, but these cuts are not related to the television division consolidation many have speculated. The layoffs will focus on HR, product/tech, and other operations functions. In a separate development, David Ellison's studio, Paramount, has been involved in a game of chicken with Disney over leaving California for Nashville. However, it remains uncertain whether this transfer will happen.

Disney's direct-to-consumer division has seen Adam Smith take the reins as its solo leader, following the departure of Joe Earley, who ran the unit with Smith previously. This move is seen as a statement by Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro and president Dana Walden to act more like a tech company, with Disney+ being the digital centerpiece.

The documentary 'Musk' has been making headlines due to concerns that Universal might bail on its international release. However, Universal has denied these fears, stating there was no internal scramble to figure out what to do and maintaining its commitment to release the film internationally.