CBS is capitalizing on the chaos at ABC, hiring several of the network’s top executives as Disney slashes jobs and restructures its workforce.
CBS Snaps Up ABC’s Best Amid Major Layoffs
As ABC undergoes significant layoffs, longtime Disney and ABC staffers are finding a new home at CBS News. The network has already recruited high-profile names, including Matthew Mosk, Wendy Fisher, and veteran executive Tom Cibrowski, who was recently named president and executive editor of CBS News.
Industry insiders say the hiring spree is no coincidence. CBS President and CEO Wendy McMahon, a former ABC executive herself, has been aggressively recruiting ABC veterans in an effort to bolster CBS’ news division. Sources reveal that McMahon is strategically assembling a powerhouse team to bring CBS to the forefront of the network news race.
McMahon is particularly focused on revitalizing CBS’ morning programming. She hopes to replicate the past success of ABC’s “Good Morning America,” which once dominated ratings under Cibrowski’s leadership. A source close to CBS confirmed that hiring Cibrowski signals McMahon’s intent to bring in experienced executives capable of driving CBS to the top.
ABC Employees Fear More Job Cuts
While CBS expands, ABC employees are reeling from sweeping layoffs. On Wednesday, ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic sent a company-wide memo announcing staff reductions, acknowledging the difficult nature of the decision. He expressed gratitude for the departing employees and praised their contributions but did not specify which departments were most affected.
An ABC executive downplayed the severity of the cuts, stating that just under 200 employees—less than 6% of the ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks workforce—were impacted. However, sources indicate that the layoffs may not be over. Insiders warn that another round of job cuts could hit before summer, leaving many ABC staffers on edge.
ABC’s struggles come as Disney continues a company-wide restructuring effort. Despite boasting powerhouse programs like “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight with David Muir,” the network has faced increasing competition and internal challenges.
Meanwhile, CBS continues to build its team, taking advantage of the upheaval at its rival network. With McMahon at the helm and a growing roster of former ABC executives, CBS appears poised to reshape its news division for the future.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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