Disney Memo Reportedly Signals Corporate Layoffs Due to AI

Published September 25, 2026

Disney is reportedly preparing for a round of corporate layoffs, with an internal memo sent to the legal department indicating impending staff reductions. According to reports, the September 18 message from the company’s Chief Legal and Global Affairs Officer points to new technology and AI as a driver for automating workflows.

As of Friday, September 25, 2026, Disney has not made a public announcement regarding the full scope of these corporate job cuts.

The internal memo was reportedly sent by Horacio Gutierrez, Disney’s Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Global Affairs Officer. It was distributed to the Legal and Global Affairs department, a division of just under 1,000 employees.

According to the report, the memo implies that artificial intelligence and new technology are being used to automate workflows, which is contributing to the staffing reductions within the division.

What we know

• The source — A September 18 internal memo sent by Horacio Gutierrez, Disney’s Chief Legal and Global Affairs Officer.
• The affected department — The communication went to the Legal and Global Affairs division, which employs just under 1,000 people.
• The reasoning — The memo reportedly cites the automation of workflows through new technology as a factor in the layoffs.

What’s not confirmed

Disney has not publicly confirmed the memo or issued an official statement regarding the cuts. It is currently unknown exactly how many jobs will be eliminated, when the layoffs will take effect, or if this corporate restructuring will extend beyond the legal division into other departments.

What it means for your trip

• No theme park impact — These reported staff reductions are strictly corporate. They do not affect in-park operations, frontline cast members, or the daily running of Walt Disney World.
• Keep your plans — You do not need to alter your dining reservations, Lightning Lane strategies, or park itineraries. Corporate restructuring in the legal department will not change your vacation experience.

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