Poynter is reporting that ESPN is undergoing significant layoffs, impacting several well-known on-air personalities. It said prominent figures like Karl Ravech, who spent 33 years at the network, and NFL analysts Cam Newton and Bart Scott are among those affected. Other cuts include "SportsCenter" anchor David Lloyd, injury expert Stephania Bell, NFL insider Tom Pelissero and NFL Network analyst Charles Davis. ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro stated in a staff memo that the job impacts are largely tied to the acquisition of NFL assets, alongside other company-wide position adjustments.
Poynter noted that critics are questioning the layoffs in light of the substantial salaries paid to ESPN's top earners, such as Stephen A. Smith, who reportedly makes $21 million annually, and Mike Greenberg, who reportedly earns nearly $7 million. It also highlighted reports that ESPN is pursuing a $60 million-a-year extension for Pat McAfee, whose show is licensed by the network. Sports Illustrated's Matt De Lima explained that the frustration stems from the arithmetic, pointing out that McAfee's proposed extension alone could cover more than a dozen contracts like Ryan Clark's, who was also laid off. Poynter acknowledged this as a valid question but described it as comparing "apples and oranges," stating that networks build around stars who command high salaries due to demand for their talent in the entertainment business.
Pat McAfee addressed the layoffs and the criticism surrounding his salary on his show, stating that he and his team "hate any time this happens" and are "very honored" to remain partnered with ESPN and Disney. He suggested critics "don't fully understand budgets" but acknowledged the perception. Stephen A. Smith expressed his unhappiness to ESPN executives about Ryan Clark's layoff, a frequent guest on his show "First Take." Smith said he advocated for Clark but recognized that "fiscal and financial circumstances" lead to such decisions made by those "way above" him.
Poynter also reported that ESPN's parent company, Disney, is implementing broader layoffs. The Hollywood Reporter's Alex Weprin said Disney Entertainment Television and film studios are expected to be affected, with Pixar seeing the most cuts among film studios and Nat Geo heavily impacted at DET. Weprin noted that most ESPN cuts are behind-the-scenes personnel. The Los Angeles Times' Samantha Masunaga reported Pixar is eliminating less than 10% of its staff, primarily in production and operations, while dozens at National Geographic received notices, though many may transition to new roles. These are the third round of layoffs this year as CEO Josh D'Amaro reorients the company around a "One Disney" structure.
CNN's Brian Stelter noted that the Pentagon has not held a press briefing in two and a half months, despite the U.S. being involved in a war with Iran. Stelter wrote that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has not explained military strategy or the circumstances of recent U.S. service member deaths, indicating an effort to control information. Pentagon chief spokesperson Sean Parnell responded, saying the government provides "comprehensive, real-time updates" and that President Donald J Trump and Secretary Hegseth offer direct updates online. Parnell criticized "Fake News reporters," stating their primary goal is self-promotion and pushing narratives. Stelter countered that reporters ask questions on behalf of the public and military reporters feel a duty to inform. Hegseth later faced questions from the Senate Appropriations Committee regarding an $80 billion request to fund the Iran war.
Poynter's PolitiFact has launched "Well Informed," a new service providing credible, research-based health information on social media and its website. It aims to cut through misinformation and offer science-backed reporting. Additionally, Poynter is reviving its "Ask a Recruiter" journalism careers advice column, now written by Cristina Silva, managing editor for operations and standards at The Boston Globe. The column, which originally ran from 2003 to 2014, offers guidance on job applications, salary negotiations and career transitions.