Disney Plans 1,000 Job Cuts Amid Marketing Overhaul

The Walt Disney Company is reportedly preparing to cut up to 1,000 jobs in the coming weeks, with a significant portion of layoffs expected in its marketing division, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing sources familiar with the matter.

The planned workforce reduction is expected to impact less than 1% of Disney’s total global workforce. As of the end of fiscal year 2025, the company employed approximately 231,000 people.

The report noted that preparations for the layoffs began prior to Josh D'Amaro taking over as Chief Executive Officer in March, indicating that the restructuring strategy has been in development for some time.

In parallel, Disney’s newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer, Asad Ayaz, is leading efforts to consolidate the company’s marketing functions under a unified structure. This initiative, internally referred to as “Project Imagine,” aims to streamline operations and reduce overall costs.

Under this plan, Ayaz has already started overseeing a newly established company-wide marketing organization since January, signaling a shift toward a more integrated and efficient marketing approach.

Reuters stated it could not independently verify the report, while Disney has not yet responded to requests for comment outside regular business hours.

The move reflects broader cost-control measures across the media and entertainment industry, as companies continue to adapt to changing market dynamics and evolving consumer preferences.