CNN has laid off its head of digital KC Estenson, insiders familiar with the situation told TheWrap.
Also read: CNN, HLN Staffers Among Turner Layoffs Hitting Atlanta
Estenson joined CNN digital in 2008 and is one of the highest-level executives let go amid widespread cuts across the country. His departure in digital comes as both network president Jeff Zucker and Turner CEO John Martin vow to invest heavily in digital.
Also read: 550 Buyouts, Layoffs Imminent at Turner; HLN, CNN Among Cuts (Exclusive)
Four CNN shows were canceled Wednesday: “Crossfire,” “Unguarded” with Rachel Nichols, “Sanjay Gupta MD,” and “CNN Money” with Christine Romans. On Tuesday, HLN’s Jane Velez-Mitchell was let go and her staff was cut. The entertainment unit was also disbanded, while VP and Northeast Bureau Darius Walker was cut after 18 years with the company.
Also read: Layoffs Hit CNN Atlanta Amid Ratings Surge From Non-Stop Malaysia Flight Coverage
Turner Broadcasting plans to lay off 1,475 employees this month — a 10 percent reduction in staff. Approximately 900 employees from all of Turner in Atlanta will be let go, while CNN Worldwide will lose a total of 170.
The job cuts followed voluntary buyouts that were offered to 550 employees division-wide in August. As TheWrap previously reported, if not enough staffers accepted the voluntary buyouts, layoffs were to follow. About 130 CNN Worldwide employees elected to take a buyout.