ESPN makes massive on-air talent cuts of 20 stars in hopes of saving tens of millions as Disney hemorrhages money

ESPN has cut a plethora of high-profile on-air talent that includes former athletes, coaches, and even longtime analysts.

More than 20 commentators and hosts are on the chopping block to allow the Disney-owned network to save tens of millions of dollars, the New York Post's Andrew Marchand has revealed.

Disney was estimated to have lost around $900 million on recent movies, according to a June 2023 analysis.

Among some of the high-profile names are former NBA star Jalen Rose, who has made a reported $3 million per year since 2018.

The network also announced on June 21, 2023, that it would end its star-studded morning radio show that featured former NFL star Keyshawn Johnson, retired NBA player Jay Williams, and longtime host Max Kellerman.

Kellerman has hosted some of ESPN's biggest shows throughout his career at the network, which has spanned over 20 years. Kellerman made a reported $5 million per year while Johnson is just one year into a five-year deal worth $18 million, or $3.6 million per year. Williams' contract was already set to expire.

As well, former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy was axed from the network. While his salary is not publicly known, Van Gundy has worked for ESPN for 16 years and was highly regarded enough to be part of the network's NBA Finals broadcasts.

Three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time NFL MVP Steve Young from "Monday Night Football" is allegedly on the verge of being let go as well. Suzy Kolber, who is also on the show, announced she was let go after 27 years.

Disney has had three rounds of layoffs with a stated goal of cutting 7,000 jobs after CEO Bob Iger returned to the company's helm.

The sports network is reportedly focusing on some of its newer, promising talent such as former NBA players J.J. Redick and Kendrick Perkins. The duo have been the at the center of several viral clips since starting at the network.

As well, the company seemingly must make room for the massive contract recently dished out to former NFL punter and podcast host Pat McAfee.

McAfee is considered one of the biggest sports podcasters on the planet and even walked away from a reported $120 million with gambling company FanDuel. Sports Illustrated reported that McAfee's ESPN contract was actually a pay cut at the still-hefty $85 million over five years.

ESPN has also reportedly told other unnamed talent that their contracts will still be paid, but they will no longer appear on air.

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