ESPN cuts major personalities in seismic layoffs

Sports news outlet ESPN on Friday announced major layoffs affecting its on-air talent as a cost-cutting measure, following the suit of other outlets that have reduced their staff in the face of an industry-wide contraction.

"Given the current environment, ESPN has determined it necessary to identify some additional cost savings in the area of public-facing commentator salaries, and that process has begun," ESPN announced. "This exercise will include a small group of job cuts in the short-term and an ongoing focus on managing costs when we negotiate individual contract renewals in the months ahead."

"This is an extremely challenging process, involving individuals who have had tremendous impact on our company. These difficult decisions, based more on overall efficiency than merit, will help us meet our financial targets and ensure future growth," it continued.

Among those personalities affected are Jeff Van Gundy, Max Kellerman, Keyshawn Johnson, Suzy Kolber, and Jalen Rose, the New York Post reported. A source within the network told the Post that the layoffs would spare no "sacred cows."

ESPN does not plan to release a complete list of the names of affected employees.

Other outlets, such as NPR, CNN, and Washington Post have been forced make job cuts in recent months.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.