Disney TV restructuring targets hundreds of jobs

Disney is set to implement a major overhaul of its television division, potentially leading to hundreds of job cuts, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. The restructuring, spearheaded by Disney Entertainment Television chairman Debra OConnell, intends to integrate various existing divisions, including ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, Hulu Originals, Disney Kids & Family, National Geographic Content, and Freeform, under one umbrella.

These divisions have historically operated as separate entities. OConnell, who reports directly to Disney President and Chief Creative Officer Dana Walden, oversees this expanded portfolio. Each unit currently maintains its own executive team responsible for programming across Disney+, Hulu, and linear channels. Walden emphasized the need to consolidate these divisions into a unified television business, rather than maintaining a fragmented structure.

ABC News, also under OConnell's purview, will also face reductions. The company's voluntary early-retirement program for executives has concluded, and the final TV restructuring plan may not be complete before the end of the year. Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro, who assumed the role in March 2026, aims to streamline the company under the "One Disney" initiative.

The latest round of cost cuts, including the recent layoff of over 300 employees, brings the total reductions this year to over 1,500 positions.