On Wednesday, ESPN sent a memo to its employees, confirming the dismissal of nearly 100 employees, including some of the network’s popular on-air talent.
“Dynamic change demands an increased focus on versatility and value, and as a result, we have been engaged in the challenging process of determining the talent – anchors, analyst, reporters, writers and those who handle play-by-play – necessary to meet those demands,” the Network’s president, John Skipper, wrote in the memo. “We will implement changes in our talent lineup this week. A limited number of other positions will also be affected and a handful of new jobs will be posted to fill various needs.”
“These decisions impact talented people who have done great work for our company. I would like to thank all of them for their efforts and their many contributions to ESPN,” Skipper wrote, as he announced the layoffs.
In the wake of the dismissals, ESPN revealed its new plans for the company and its online presence.
“On the horizon is more live news video and enhanced video and audio streaming,” the network posted on its media website. “Our goal continues to be to maximize our unparalleled scale in every medium with storytelling that stands out and makes a difference. We are well-equipped to thrive going forward by embracing these themes.”
A few on-air personalities have already confirmed their dismissal, including ESPN reporter Ed Werder, who had been with the company for 17 years.
“After 17 years reporting on #NFL, I’ve been informed that I’m being laid off by ESPN effective immediately,” tweeted Werder. “I have no plans to retire.”
