Disney Layoffs 2026: 1,000 Jobs at Risk Under New CEO

The Walt Disney Company is reportedly preparing for a fresh round of job cuts, targeting approximately 1,000 positions across its global operations. 

This marks the first significant workforce reduction under the leadership of Josh D’Amaro, who officially assumed the role of CEO in March 2026. 

The move signals a continued commitment to the aggressive cost-cutting and organizational streamlining initiated during the tenure of former CEO Bob Iger.

Marketing and Corporate Divisions in Focus

The upcoming layoffs are expected to hit the company’s marketing and corporate departments most acutely. 

Following the appointment of Asad Ayaz as Chief Marketing and Brand Officer earlier this year, Disney has been working to centralize its promotional efforts.

The restructuring, internally referred to by some as “Project Imagine,” aims to eliminate overlapping responsibilities by unifying marketing teams that previously operated separately across film, television, and streaming. 

Additionally, the company is reportedly looking to combine back-end staff for Disney+ and Hulu as it moves toward a more integrated, single-app streaming experience.

Read Also: HCLTech Announces Phased Layoffs Through December 2026

Efficiency Amidst Industry Headwinds

While Disney’s “Experiences” division—comprising theme parks and cruise lines—continues to show growth, the broader entertainment segment faces persistent challenges.

The decision to downsize stems from:

• Streaming Profitability: Adjusting to lower margins in digital media compared to traditional linear television.
• Box Office Volatility: Navigating a softer theatrical market and increased competition from platforms like Amazon and YouTube.
• Capital Allocation: Freeing up cash flow to reinvest in high-growth digital endeavors and advanced AI-driven content tools.

Walt Disney Contextualizing the Cuts

Though impactful for those involved, this round is modest compared to the 8,000 roles eliminated between 2023 and 2025, which saved the company an estimated $7.5 billion. 

As of early 2026, Disney employs approximately 231,000 people worldwide. 

These latest cuts represent a fraction of a percent of that total workforce but underscore a permanent shift toward a leaner, more collaborative operating model.

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