The latest round of ESPN layoffs has arrived.
On Wednesday, network president John Skipper confirmed 150 staffers would be terminated, after cutting about 100 staffers in late April. The news of layoffs was expected, but it is surprising that on-air talent does not appear to be among the people being let go.
The statement from Skipper to ESPN employees:
Today we are informing approximately 150 people at ESPN that their jobs are being eliminated.
We appreciate their contributions, and will assist them as much as possible in this difficult moment with severance, a 2017 bonus, the continuation of health benefits and outplacement services. They will also appreciate your support.
The majority of the jobs eliminated are in studio production, digital content, and technology and they generally reflect decisions to do less in certain instances and re-direct resources.
We will continue to invest in ways which will best position us to serve the modern sports fan and support the success of our business.
The 38-year-old network has been squeezed by rising fees to broadcast live events. ESPN also has lost about 10 million subscribers during the past six years, based on estimates by Nielsen Media Research.
The sports broadcaster has about 8,000 employees worldwide. Before April’s cuts, the Worldwide Leader laid off close to 300 employees in 2015.
With AP