Orlando, Fla — Since the theme parks reopening in July many of its live entertainment shows have gone dark because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Wednesday, Disney World announced some 720 actors and singers would be laid off, according Actors' Equity Association, the labor union representing the performers.
The Walt Disney Company had previously announced it was eliminating 28,000 jobs in its parks in California and Florida because of costs related to the pandemic. More than fifty percent of the planned layoffs involve part-time workers.
“Our hearts go out to all the cast members at Walt Disney World,” said Kate Shindle, president of Actors' Equity Association. “Disney has made it clear that our members would face work reductions since they announced layoffs of nearly 28,000 employees. That does not make this news any less painful.”
It's a rough day at Walt Disney World as many cast members received official notice of termination today. Be kind if you plan to visit the parks soon. If you lost your dream job today, you have our condolences. pic.twitter.com/X3iwBb6vrY
— The Disney Blog (@TheDisneyBlog) October 27, 2020
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