Significant changes are underway at Disney, including layoffs impacting 1,000 employees this week. These changes also mark the end of a 40-year chapter for the company.
According to TheWrap, Disney’s recent layoffs have significantly impacted its home entertainment division, eliminating the entire team previously led by Chris Bess. This team, originally established as Buena Vista Home Video in 1987, has been fully dissolved. In addition, Disney has cut 20 positions within its publicity departments, as well as the entire electronic press kit (EPK) team and several roles focused on digital marketing.
What Will Happen Next With Physical Disney Releases?
Disney’s decision to eliminate its home entertainment team has led to uncertainty about the future of physical media releases like DVDs and Blu-rays. With more people switching to streaming and digital movies, sales of these physical copies have been steadily decreasing. This move suggests Disney is increasingly focused on digital distribution. However, this will likely disappoint many collectors who prefer owning physical copies of their favorite films and shows.
Home entertainment used to be a huge money-maker, but recent news highlights that DVDs and Blu-rays are becoming less popular. Disney was especially known for releasing fantastic special editions of its classic films, packed with extras like director’s commentary, deleted footage, and behind-the-scenes documentaries.
Marvel Has Also Been Hit With Layoffs
Recent reports indicated an 8% decrease in staff at Marvel, but Disney has stated this number is significantly lower. Regardless, layoffs have affected employees in Burbank and New York across various departments including film, television, comics, franchise management, finance, and legal. These changes are reportedly due to an overall reduction in the number of film and TV projects Marvel is currently producing.
In an email to employees this Tuesday, the company announced changes to its marketing and branding teams to better connect with customers. Over the last few months, Disney has been working to simplify operations and deliver the quality and innovation that fans expect. To keep up with the rapidly changing entertainment landscape, this requires building a more flexible and tech-savvy workforce. As part of this effort, some positions will be eliminated, and affected employees have already been notified.
The email went on to say that compassion and respect are still central to our company values. During this change, we’re focused on helping those affected by providing them with the resources, advice, and personal assistance they need to move forward.
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2026-04-15 20:08