Disney to Cut 140 Jobs in Television Division Amid Restructuring
Walt Disney Co. is set to cut approximately 140 jobs within its television division, impacting networks like National Geographic and Freeform. This restructuring, led by CEO Bob Iger, aims to streamline operations amid challenges in traditional cable viewing. As Disney adapts to the evolving media landscape, these layoffs reflect broader industry trends and are part of a strategy to balance investments in streaming services with declining cable revenues.
Activist Investor Nelson Peltz Sells Entire Stake in Disney After Proxy Battle Defeat
Activist investor Nelson Peltz sells entire stake in Disney after proxy battle defeat, making a profit of $1 billion. Despite setbacks, Peltz expresses satisfaction with Trian Partners’ impact on Disney’s value creation. Disney’s stock has risen 11% this year, prompting speculation on future corporate direction.
Disney’s Struggles at the Box Office
Disney has faced challenges in returning to its 2019 box-office success, leading to activist investor Nelson Peltz’s push for a board seat. The company’s recent struggles include six quarters of operating losses in its content sales business, with revenues falling below $9 billion in 2022 and 2023. Despite some successful films, such as ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3,’ Disney has not seen a movie generate over $1 billion since 2019, impacting its theatrical business.
Disney Shareholders Face Crucial Decision Amid Calls for Change
Disney is at a critical juncture as shareholders prepare to vote on the company’s future direction. CEO Bob Iger is facing scrutiny as investors weigh in on underwhelming box office performance, streaming service investments, and uncertainties in the traditional TV business. Billionaire investor Nelson Peltz has been vocal about the company’s struggles, raising questions about Iger’s leadership and succession strategy. The upcoming annual meeting will be pivotal as shareholders decide on a proposed boardroom shake-up, with Peltz’s campaign for change intensifying the battle for control.