A wave of job cuts continues to sweep through the media and entertainment sector, with major companies announcing significant workforce reductions. The layoffs, which have affected thousands of employees, come as the industry grapples with post-pandemic recovery, the aftermath of Hollywood strikes, and growing financial pressures.
Disney has been among the most affected, with Pixar, National Geographic, and ABC News seeing job losses totalling just under 100 roles. ESPN also confirmed cutbacks in July, primarily impacting production staff, as well as on-air personalities including lead baseball commentator Karl Ravech and NFL analyst Ryan Clark. Marvel, a Disney subsidiary, reduced its workforce by 8% across film, television, and other departments.
Other major players have also announced layoffs. Microsoft’s Xbox division revealed in early July that 3,200 workers would be let go, a 20% reduction. Meta plans to cut 10% of its workforce, affecting around 8,000 employees, while Snap is reducing its full-time staff by 16%, or about 1,000 jobs. The BBC announced redundancy proposals that could lead to up to 2,000 job cuts.
Sony Pictures Entertainment laid off several hundred employees in April, focusing on junior and middle management. Video game publisher Epic Games laid off 1,000 workers in March, and Spotify cut 15 positions across its podcast group. Starz reduced its workforce by 7% in late March 2026. Quixote studios is winding down operations in Atlanta, eliminating about 70 jobs.
The trend shows no signs of abating, as companies seek to cut costs and streamline operations amid changing market conditions.
