Disney’s Pixar Studios announces Layoffs as Company Looks to Focus on Quality over Quantity in its future Projects
Disney’s Pixar Animation Studios has announced a significant round of layoffs this week, resulting in the termination of 175 employees, approximately 14% of its workforce. This decision comes as part of CEO Bob Iger’s strategy to emphasize higher-quality content over quantity, following a string of mixed reviews for recent projects released both in theaters and on Disney’s streaming service.
In a memo to staff on Tuesday, Pixar president Jim Morris explained that the studio is intensifying its efforts to “return our focus on feature films,” calling the decision “one of the hardest changes” the leadership had to make.
Morris stated, “I have spoken to you many times over the last year about our pending move away from series production for Disney+, the return to our focus on feature films, and the reduction in our team that would accompany that. That day is here, and while it is not coming as a surprise to anyone, it is one of the hardest changes we’ve had to make, as it means we will be parting with a number of talented and dedicated colleagues and friends.”
“Despite the challenges in our industry over the past few years, you have all consistently shown up to contribute, collaborate, innovate, lead, and do great work at this studio,” Morris continued. “I give you my deepest thanks, and for those who will be leaving us, I am hopeful that our paths will cross again, both professionally and personally.”
This announcement follows a series of layoffs at Disney that have taken place in recent days. Last year, the company revealed plans to lay off 7,000 employees and cut over $5 billion in costs.
Since 2019, neither Pixar nor Walt Disney Animation has released an animated movie that grossed over $480 million at the global box office, according to CNBC. Additionally, 2023 marked the first year since 2015 that Disney did not lead the global box office.
Disney has continued to face backlash from audience members for a steep decline in the quality of its projects. This comes at the same time the company was revealed to be intensely focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion hiring practices that included race quotas for certain positions both on and off camera.
