Deadspin: ESPN laying off hundreds today

Apologies if this is a DB. But since this is supposed to go down today, according to Deadspin ... :

http://deadspin.com/are-layoffs-about-to-hit-espn-today-jim-miller-thinks-509043249

 

I saw something on Twitter that the number could be around 400.

 

Not trying to make a statement, but how many minions could keep their jobs if they got rid of like, one Berman. Or like, 12 of the 20 pregame guys.

 

Because it would be good for ESPN or because it would be good for the minions?

 

Like I said, there was nothing behind my statement, more curious to see the numbers behind it.

 

A more relevant example than Berman, who has his uses and institutional value, might be Rick Reilly—an expensive and high-profile free-agent hire who has faded into the Bristol forest.

 

Because those shit heels are thought to be "talent."

 

I'll be surprised if any big names from the TV portion of ESPN are let go. There will probably be names that are recognizable to us, but not that many others, as well as people who are behind the scenes.

The Deadspin article had some mention of a Denver office being shut down.

 

I'd bet it's producers, editors and people we have never heard of.

 

And some people who post here.

 

ESPN has expanded pretty dramatically -- and wastefully IMO -- in the last few years. Lot of college and even pro writers leaving them with six articles/blog posts on issues that need one or two. Regional sites etc. and there are a lot of behind-the-scenes workers involved. This is probably an answer to overambitious expansion plans.

 

Sadly, that's probably the case... Just what ESPN needs... Less copy editors... Good lord...

Most of the writers and on-air talent at ESPN have contracts. They're usually two or three years long sometimes with an option year. I'm guessing those people would not be subject to this layoff.