LOS ANGELES, California – In a strategic move to adapt to the changing landscape of media consumption, Disney is restructuring its news division and local stations. The company aims to capitalize on the potential for increased profits as traditional news outlets contend with the growing prevalence of streaming video services.
Debra O’Connell, a seasoned executive across various sectors of the Disney portfolio, has been appointed to lead the new division, which will oversee ABC News and its local station operations. This organizational shift mirrors a similar move made by Paramount Global last year, consolidating CBS News, local CBS stations, and syndication under a single executive.
O’Connell will report to Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment. Meanwhile, Kim Godwin, the President of ABC News, will continue in her role, despite having a new layer of management added between her and top Disney executives.
The transformation comes at a critical juncture for ABC News, as the industry grapples with the increasing dominance of digital and streaming media. While “World News Tonight” and “Good Morning America” have historically commanded the top spots in their respective time slots, both shows have experienced a decline in viewership among the coveted 25-54 demographic.
With extensive experience in ad sales and senior roles at the New York station WABC, O’Connell brings a wealth of knowledge to her expanded role. She expresses her eagerness to collaborate with Godwin, Stations President Chad Matthews, and their respective teams to develop strategies that will continue to engage viewers in the years to come.
The evolving media landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for established news outlets, and Disney’s latest reorganization reflects a proactive approach to remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment. As O’Connell takes the helm of ABC News, industry observers will be keen to see how the company navigates the ongoing shift in consumer preferences and behavior.