ABC News Cuts 50 Jobs In Major Restructuring Move

ABC News Cuts 50 Jobs In Major Restructuring Move...

ABC News laid off approximately 50 employees on Monday as part of a significant restructuring effort, according to internal memos obtained by multiple outlets. The cuts primarily affect production and off-air roles across the network's national and local news divisions.

The layoffs come as parent company Disney implements broader cost-cutting measures across its media divisions. ABC News President Kim Godwin informed staff about the decision in a memo, calling it "a difficult but necessary step" to streamline operations. Employees were notified individually throughout the day.

This marks the second round of layoffs at ABC News in less than a year, following 20 positions eliminated in summer 2025. The network joins other major media companies, including CNN and NBCUniversal, in reducing headcount amid declining linear TV viewership and advertising revenue.

Social media reactions included outrage from media unions and sympathy for affected workers. The Writers Guild of America East called the cuts "another blow to quality journalism" in a statement Monday afternoon. Several prominent ABC journalists expressed support for their colleagues on X (formerly Twitter).

The layoffs trended nationally as viewers recognized familiar behind-the-scenes names among those let go. Many affected staffers had worked on flagship programs like "Good Morning America" and "World News Tonight." Industry analysts note the cuts reflect broader challenges facing traditional broadcast news.

Disney reported a 5% drop in linear network revenue last quarter, with ABC specifically affected by lower political advertising compared to 2024's election year. The company plans to shift more resources toward digital platforms like ABC News Live and Hulu programming.

Affected employees will receive severance packages and outplacement services, according to the network. The National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians (NABET) said it's working to ensure union members receive all contractually obligated benefits.

This story is developing and may be updated.