Tag: Disney

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Corporate

Disney invests ₹123 cr more in JioStar India

The Walt Disney Company has infused ₹123 crore into JioStar India, reinforcing its commitment to the country’s rapidly growing media and entertainment sector following the merger of its Indian business with Reliance-backed Viacom18.

The fresh investment has been made through foreign direct investment (FDI) and is aimed at strengthening JioStar’s financial position as the newly merged entity continues integrating its operations. The capital infusion reflects Disney’s continued confidence in the joint venture and its long-term prospects in one of the world’s fastest-growing entertainment markets.

JioStar was created after the merger of Disney Star India and Viacom18, bringing together a vast portfolio of television channels, digital streaming platforms and sports broadcasting rights under a single entity. The merger has created one of India’s largest media companies, with a significant presence across television, digital entertainment and live sports.

The merged entity is also expected to focus on expanding its content library, enhancing user experience and leveraging advanced technology to attract a wider audience. Analysts say India’s growing internet penetration and rising demand for digital entertainment continue to make the market attractive for global media companies.

Disney’s latest capital infusion comes at a time when the Indian media industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by increasing digital consumption, regional content demand and changing viewer preferences. The investment highlights the company’s confidence that the merged business can unlock greater value through scale and operational efficiencies.

Market experts believe the partnership between Disney and Reliance has the potential to reshape India’s entertainment landscape by combining strong content capabilities with extensive distribution networks. The additional funding is expected to provide the financial flexibility needed to pursue future growth opportunities.

Also Read: Zee approves ₹3,144-cr promoter fundraise

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1 Minute-Read

Zee sues Reliance–Disney, Nykaa over music use

Alleges unauthorised use of songs in streaming and Instagram promotions.

Zee Entertainment has filed separate copyright cases against Reliance–Disney joint venture and Nykaa, alleging unauthorised use of its music without valid licences.

In the Reliance–Disney case, Zee claims its songs were used on streaming and broadcast platforms even after agreements expired. It is seeking damages of about $3 million for multiple alleged violations.

In a second case, Zee has accused Nykaa of using its songs in Instagram promotional reels without permission. It has sought around ₹2 crore in damages. Nykaa has removed the content, while both matters are pending in court.

Categories
Leaders

Disney to cut 1,000 jobs under new CEO

The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to cut around 1,000 jobs as part of a restructuring effort under its new CEO, Josh D’Amaro.

The decision comes just weeks after D’Amaro took over the top role, signalling a push to streamline operations and improve efficiency across the company. The layoffs are expected to affect multiple divisions, though specific departments have not been fully detailed.

In an internal memo to employees, D’Amaro said the move was necessary to align the company’s structure with its long-term goals. He acknowledged that the decision would be difficult but stressed that it was aimed at making Disney more focused and competitive in a rapidly changing entertainment industry.

The company has been facing growing pressure from shifts in consumer behaviour, particularly the move towards streaming platforms. Like many media giants, Disney has been trying to balance its traditional businesses, such as theme parks and television, with its expanding digital services.

This is not the first time Disney has undertaken job cuts in recent years. The company has been working to reduce costs and improve profitability, especially as competition in the streaming space continues to intensify.

Employees affected by the layoffs are expected to receive severance packages and support during the transition. The company has said it will handle the process carefully, keeping communication open with its workforce.

The announcement has raised concerns among employees, especially given the timing so soon after a leadership change. However, industry analysts say such steps are common when new leaders take charge, as they look to reshape organisations and set new priorities.

D’Amaro emphasised that despite the layoffs, Disney remains committed to investing in its core businesses, including content creation and experiences. He also highlighted the importance of innovation as the company adapts to evolving audience demands.

Also Read:Google brings AI search to Windows desktop

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Beyond

Disney plans 1,000 job cuts

The Walt Disney Company is planning to cut up to 1,000 jobs in the coming weeks as part of efforts to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The move comes under its new CEO, Josh D’Amaro, who took charge in March 2026.

The layoffs will affect less than 1% of Disney’s global workforce, which has over 230,000 employees. Most of the job cuts are expected to happen in the company’s marketing teams. Disney has recently combined several marketing functions, leading to some overlapping roles.

Although the layoffs are happening during D’Amaro’s leadership, reports suggest the plan was already in progress before he became CEO. Still, this is one of the first major steps under his leadership as he focuses on making the company more streamlined.

Disney is currently facing several challenges. Its streaming business is growing but is not as profitable as traditional TV. At the same time, the company is dealing with weaker box office performance and strong competition from digital platforms.

To manage these issues, Disney is restructuring its operations and cutting costs. A key part of this plan is to simplify its marketing structure and improve coordination across its film, television, and streaming businesses.

This is not the first time Disney has reduced its workforce. The company has made similar cuts in recent years as it adapts to changes in how people consume entertainment.

Also Read: Canva buys two AI startups in expansion push

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1 Minute-Read

Disney and OpenAI deal brings iconic characters to Sora

Disney and OpenAI have signed a major three-year agreement that will allow fans to create short AI-generated videos featuring more than 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars using OpenAI’s video model, Sora.

Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI and also use its technology to develop new products and improve Disney+ services. The partnership includes strict safeguards: no real actor voices or likenesses will be used.

Some user-created clips may be showcased on Disney+. The feature will launch in early 2026, marking one of the biggest collaborations between Hollywood and generative AI.

Categories
Technology

Disney Channels return to YouTube TV after blackout

Disney and YouTube TV have reached an agreement, ending a blackout that left Disney’s channels, including ESPN, ABC, FX, and National Geographic, unavailable for over two weeks.

The disruption began when the two companies could not agree on licensing fees, preventing viewers from accessing live sports, news, and entertainment programs.

Under the new deal, all affected channels are being restored to YouTube TV, and subscribers can now enjoy full programming without extra cost.

Both sides had clashed publicly during negotiations, with YouTube TV citing high fee demands from Disney, while Disney argued for fair compensation for its content.

The resolution highlights growing tensions in the streaming and live‑TV market over content pricing and distribution rights.

Also Read: India, Canada partner on critical minerals, green energy