Sports

ESPN Lays Off 100 Employees In Massive Downsizing

REUTERS/Michelle McLoughlin

Kyle Morel Contributor
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ESPN is laying off roughly 100 television hosts, radio personalities and writers as the once-dominant company continues to struggle, CNN reports.

Yahoo Finance originally reported that total number would be 40, and that they would be let go May 1.

Because the majority of employees affected are “on-air talent,” sports fans will likely be familiar with many of the names leaving ESPN. Statements from terminated workers — like longtime NFL reporter Ed Werder — have already begun to trickle onto social media.

ESPN, once the undisputed leader in sports media, has seen its reputation take a hit in recent years. The company’s subscription numbers have been steadily declining, and some viewers have shifted their attention to rival networks like Fox Sports 1.

In a memo sent out to the company, ESPN president John Skipper thanked the fired employees “for their efforts and their many contributions to ESPN.” He also acknowledged that the organization must continue moving forward in the evolving media landscape.

“Our objective in all we do is to best serve fans and their changing consumption habits while still maintaining an unparalleled and diverse talent roster that resonates with fans across all our platforms,” Skipper said. “We will continue to foster creativity and investment in the products and resources necessary to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.”