Disney CEO Addresses Employees after Q2 results

Disney has published its Q2 2026 financial results under new CEO Josh D'Amaro. The company reported a 7% rise in revenue during the second quarter, marking a positive performance across multiple business divisions.

According to Business Insider, Josh sent a memo to staff following the results announcement. He told employees the figures were a direct reflection of their efforts and dedication to the company's mission.

Josh writes: "The results we reported are not just numbers on a page – they are a direct reflection of your hard work, creativity and the way you deliver for our fans every single day."

The entertainment division saw revenue increase by 10% while the streaming unit reported an 88% leap in operating income. These figures demonstrate the strength of Disney's content offerings and the growing profitability of its digital platforms.

Four priorities for 2026

Josh outlined four priorities for the company in his memo to staff. These included investing in storytelling, strengthening streaming, building ESPN's direct to consumer model and growing Disney Experiences.

The CEO referenced releases including The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Pixar's Hoppers. He says these act as a reminder of the company's track record of creating original intellectual property that resonates with audiences globally.

Josh says Disney made meaningful progress during Q2 with product enhancements that improved the Disney+ user experience. The company is increasing investment in local originals for UK and Korean markets, recognising the importance of regional content in driving subscriber growth and engagement.

ESPN operating income fell 5% in the second quarter despite overall strong performance. Josh says the brand strength is clear in Q2 and the company made enhancements to its app to better serve sports fans.

Expansion into new markets

Disney launched the Disney Adventure cruise ship in Q2. The vessel is the first ship home-ported in Asia, representing a significant expansion of the company's physical presence in the region.

Josh says this extends the reach of the company's brands to new markets and fans around the world. He says it reinforces confidence in the long term opportunity of the Disney Experiences portfolio and demonstrates the company's commitment to international growth.

Josh concluded his letter by telling employees: "I'm grateful for the passion, resilience and optimism you bring to your work, and I'm energised by the opportunities in front of us as we lay the groundwork for Disney's next phase of growth."

The results come one month after the company announced approximately 1,000 employees would be made redundant.

Layoffs announced in April

Disney announced job cuts in April 2026. The marketing department was particularly affected by the reductions, with several teams experiencing significant restructuring.

According to Reuters, Josh sent an email to employees about the layoffs. He writes: "Given the fast-moving pace of our industries, this requires us to constantly assess how to foster a more agile and technologically-enabled workforce to meet tomorrow's needs."

Josh adds: "As a result, we will be eliminating roles in some parts of the company."

The layoffs came one month after Josh took on the role of CEO. The company had announced the cuts during what he describes as a challenging first couple of months in the position.