Disney is laying off scores of employees from Pixar Animation Studios as part of the largest restructuring in the movie maker’s history.
Approximately 14 percent of Pixar’s workforce —nearly 200 employees — are expected to be laid off as part of the job reductions, according to multiple Tuesday reports.
Employees at Pixar have known the layoffs were coming since the beginning of the year, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
“Despite the challenges in our industry over the past few years, you have all consistently shown up to contribute, collaborate, innovate, lead, and do great work at this studio,” Pixar President Jim Morris wrote to employees in a note obtained by the outlet. “I give you my deepest thanks, and for those who will be leaving us, I am hopeful that our paths will cross again, both professionally and personally.”
Like all major studios, Pixar has struggled to rebound from the significant financial hardship of the coronavirus pandemic. It is hoping planned releases including “Inside Out 2” will provide a jolt at the box office this summer.