Disney Streaming-First Restructuring Could Wipe Out Hundreds of TV Jobs

Disney is preparing a major overhaul of its television operations, which could lead to hundreds of layoffs and the consolidation of key divisions. The move reflects a broader industry trend to reduce overhead costs as cord-cutting continues to erode traditional broadcast and cable revenue.

The restructuring, led by Debra O'Connell, Chairman of Disney Entertainment Television, aims to reorient the company's television division around streaming subscriber behavior rather than traditional network brands.

The changes will impact executive leadership and teams across ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, Hulu Originals, and Freeform. This is the latest operational shift implemented under Chief Executive Officer Josh D'Amaro, who assumed the leadership role in March 2026.

The overhaul follows previous labor reductions at the company, including headcount trims across film and television marketing, publicity, casting, development, Pixar, ABC News, and ESPN. Most recently, Disney eliminated several hundred corporate roles primarily concentrated within its human resources and technology departments.