Since Bob Iger’s return as CEO of Disney, ESPN has been implementing significant cost-cutting measures, including extensive layoffs that are deemed necessary for budget balancing amid a changing landscape in sports, media, and entertainment. Prominent figures such as Robert Griffin III, Zach Lowe, and Sam Ponder have lost their positions, while Iger’s earnings have notably increased during this process.
According to a proxy filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission reported by Deadline, Bob Iger’s total compensation for fiscal year 2024 rose to $41.1 million, a 30% increase from his $31.6 million package in fiscal 2023. This pay package consists of a $1 million salary, $18.25 million in stock awards, $12 million in option awards, $7.22 million in non-equity incentive plan compensation, $495,142 reflecting a change in pension value and non-qualified deferred compensation earnings, and $2,145,767 in ‘other’ compensation, which includes $523,685 for personal air travel and $1.44 million for security costs.
Now, yet another familiar face has been let go: longtime ESPN Radio personality Kevin Winter, who was recently released as part of the ‘cost-cutting’ measures, as reported by Awful Announcing.
Longtime ESPN Radio personality Kevin Winter let go in ‘cost-cutting’ move https://t.co/p0CyKP6Apt
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 4, 2025
Reactions from fans on social media have been mixed, with one expressing frustration over the network’s decision to hire ex-athletes over experienced professionals: “And yet they give Jason Kelce a late-night show. That’s why I only listen to a chosen few on the network and really just watch live sports. I listen to XM now more than ESPN radio.” Another fan lamented, “ESPN chooses to cut actual trained professionals to hire ex-jocks with high school diplomas and hand them huge salaries and call them analysts. They offer nothing in terms of quality and do nothing but cover for players.” However, some have shown support for Winter, stating, “One of the best at what he does in sports media. Even better person. Looking forward to seeing what his next act is. He won’t be out long.” Hopefully, Winter will land on his feet.
