Face it, most people assume that “Hollywood,” the euphemism for the entertainment industry, is a massive enterprise. However, when compared to some of the larger industrial and commercial industries it is a relatively small industry. So when an acquisition claims an estimated 4,000 jobs, it is a tsunami-level event. Especially for those long-time employees who had to fight their way into the industry, work for substandard wages, and then produce excellent work year-after-year to achieve their present positions. The layoffs will commence after the deal officially closes and will start with senior executives and work its way downward to mid-level managers and supervisors as Disney and Fox begin integrating and consolidating duplicative and redundant functions and positions.
The traditional corporate-speak rings hollow…
From: Studio – Alan Horn & Alan Bergman
Subject: A New Chapter for The Walt Disney Studios
With the announcement that the Disney-Fox deal is officially complete, we begin an exciting new chapter in the history of both our companies and the industry. This is a major piece of the bold strategy Bob Iger has set for The Walt Disney Company as our business rapidly evolves.
It’s astounding and humbling to consider the rich, dynamic legacies of these storied studios and the endless possibilities ahead as we unite them. It’s not something we take for granted as leaders, and we are looking forward to working together to build a team of unparalleled creativity and innovation.
We’ve learned a lot in meetings held prior to deal close, yet there are many things that could not be discussed for regulatory reasons. We are happy to now have the chance to really understand and share how we operate at the ground level – and we realize we are only at the beginning of the process.
Although there is much to look forward to, we know this integration will entail quite a bit of change across our organizations. We want to acknowledge that and assure you we are committed to engaging in this process thoughtfully and communicating changes as we are able – most importantly with respect for all involved.
We’ll be making announcements very soon about our senior leadership structure. It will take some time to reach our future fully integrated state. Day-to-day, our top priorities remain the same: to support the great content we’re creating and deliver a superb experience to our consumers, and to continue to build an inspiring, inclusive environment where employees can bring their best to work every day.
As we start this journey of bringing together the combined might of Disney and 21st Century Fox to create the best entertainment studio, we’d like to thank you all for everything you’ve done to bring us to this point and for your continued focus, support, and patience as we proceed.
Sincerely,
Alan Horn, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios
Alan Bergman, President, The Walt Disney Studios
On the West side of Los Angeles, which is home to a large number of independent enterprises, the job market is heating up as employees with valuable skills transfer to independent production companies, and into allied fields that can benefit from Hollywood’s production values such as the advertising and public relations industries.
Many of the most-skilled employees noticed the handwriting on the wall and moved early to secure employment elsewhere.
Change is coming. There will always be a tomorrow, no matter how much you may try to ignore it. There are no guarantees in life, or promises for a bright future. Just because something bad hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it won't. It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere ... are you now wondering, Am I Next?