ESPN announced another round of layoffs on Friday that are expected to claim 20 on-air and high-profile positions as the sports giant continues to downsize.
According to multiple reports, former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy, and popular analyst and former NBA star Jalen Rose are among those affected by the cuts.
ESPN also canceled its national morning radio show with Max Kellerman, Keyshawn Johnson, and Jay Williams.
ESPN has released the following statement regarding the latest round of layoffs:
Given the current environment, ESPN has determined it necessary to identify some additional cost savings in the area of public-facing comments salaries, and that process has begun.
This exercise will include a small group of job cuts in the short-short and an ongoing focus on managing costs when we negotiate individual contract renewals in the months ahead.
This is an extremely challenging process, involving individuals who have a tremendous impact on our company.
These difficult decisions, based more on overall efficiency than merit, will help us meet our financial targets and ensure future growth.
The jobs of ESPN mega-stars like Stephen A. Smith, who reportedly earns more than $10 million annually, insider reporters Adrian Wojnarowski and Adam Schefter, who reportedly earn between $5 and $10 million, and Monday Night Football commentators Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, who reportedly earn more than $30 million together, are safe for now.
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Source: The Washington Post
