Some of the most recognisable names in the US sports media landscape have lost their jobs as part of a cost-cutting measure undertaken by broadcaster ESPN.
Back in February, Disney — the parent company of the major sports network owner — announced that some 7,000 members of staff would be laid off, despite the company's profits soaring by 56% to $12.1 billion last year. Although it is unconfirmed whether the cuts to staff at ESPN is related to this measure, 20 members of ESPN's on-air team have been relieved of their duties in the past week.
The lay-offs also follow those put in place by other media companies in the US including at CNN, The Athletic and National Geographic and include household names such as Jalen Rose, Jeff Van Gundy and Keyshawn Johnson. Now, one of ESPN's most famous personalities has revealed his fear that more cuts could well be on the way, with "First Take" star Stephen A. Smith also fearing that he could also lose his job.
