• Disney cuts nearly 200 jobs across ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks, including shutting down FiveThirtyEight.
  • FiveThirtyEight, known for data-driven political analysis, closes after years of decline, eliminating 15 positions.
  • Critics argue the move highlights shifting priorities in media conglomerates and the growing need for independent journalism.

Disney’s decision to cut jobs at ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks has led to the shutdown of the popular political analysis site, FiveThirtyEight (538). According to the Wall Street Journal, this move comes as part of a larger wave of layoffs affecting nearly 6% of Disney’s combined workforce. This shocking decision has left many questioning the media giant’s priorities.

Major Layoffs Across Disney and ABC News Group

Disney is reportedly cutting 200 jobs across key divisions, including ABC News and Disney Entertainment Networks. These cuts include consolidating magazine shows 20/20 and Nightline into a single program, leading to further staff reductions. Moreover, all three hours of the Good Morning America franchise will now operate under a single production team. Staffing in program scheduling and planning at Freeform and FX will also see reductions.

The closure of 538 eliminates an additional 15 positions. This follows years of decline for the once-thriving site, which previously employed 35 staff members in 2023. The layoffs represent a significant loss for data-driven journalism.

History of FiveThirtyEight’s Decline

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

MORE NEWS: Iran Peace Deal Was “Within Our Reach” Hours Before Bombs Fell

Founded by Nate Silver, FiveThirtyEight gained fame for providing accurate election forecasts and political analysis. However, its fortunes dwindled after Silver’s departure in 2021 when his Disney contract expired. In his post on X, Silver shared his disappointment, writing, “My heart goes out to the people there. They were tremendously hard-working and produced a lot of extremely valuable data and insight for everyone who wants to understand politics better. They deserved much better.”

Broader Implications for Media and Politics

The announcement comes as voters increasingly turn to alternative platforms for political analysis. Critics argue that the shutdown of 538 underlines the left-leaning media bias within conglomerates like Disney, a stark contrast to platforms like The Dupree Report that champion independent journalism.

At a time when President Donald Trump (Donald Trump) continues to dominate headlines, the need for balanced, data-driven reporting is more critical than ever. This decision raises concerns about the long-term impact on readers who rely on objective insights during election cycles.

Share Your Thoughts

What do you think about Disney’s decision to shut down FiveThirtyEight? Does this mark a turning point in political journalism? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article from The Dupree Report to keep others informed.

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10