Disney is implementing a significant restructuring at Pixar Animation Studios, resulting in a significant number of employee layoffs.
According to Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday, it is expected that nearly 200 employees, which is approximately 14 percent of Pixar's workforce, will be laid off as part of the job reductions.
Disney's Pixar to Layoff Nearly 175 Workers
Pixar President Jim Morris delivered a sad message notifying 175 employees of their unfortunate termination.
"Calendar invites to speak with a leader have already gone out to those individuals, and we anticipate we will have connected with everyone impacted by the end of the day," stated the staff-wide message.
However, the news of these layoffs did not come as a surprise to employees, as they had been aware of the possibility since January. However, they were expecting a smaller percentage of employees to be affected.
The renowned animation studio has faced significant challenges in the wake of the global pandemic.
The studio faced a significant setback when it chose to release Soul, Luca, and Turning Red exclusively on its parent company's streaming service, Disney+, instead of waiting for theaters to reopen.
In addition, the studio's 2020 theatrical release Onward and 2022's Lightyear did not achieve significant success at the box office.
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In a move that sparked outrage among Toy Story fans, Lightyear caused a stir when it was announced that Chris Evans would be taking over the role of Buzz Lightyear, replacing the beloved Tim Allen. There was additional outrage due to the portrayal of a same-sex kiss. In Pixar's Onward, there is also a subtle nod to a same-sex relationship.
Lightyear's same-sex kiss resulted in its removal from movie theaters and Disney+ services globally, especially in regions with a significant Muslim population. Actress Uzo Aduba shares a brief kiss with her female partner in one scene.
Disney and other parties have come forward to support the scene, arguing that it provides viewers with a glimpse into the diverse range of family structures that exist.
Thirteen nations from the Muslim world and the Palestinian territory have prohibited it. Regarding Onward, the film was not shown in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Last year, Pixar made the decision to let go of 75 positions, including two executives involved in the disappointing performance of Lightyear. These job cuts mark a significant change for the studio, as it is the first time in a decade that such measures have been taken.
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