Monday’s WarnerMedia layoffs have affected a significant number of high-level figures at DC Comics, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Among those losing their jobs are editor-in-chief Bob Harris, senior VP of publishing strategy and support services Hank Kanalz, VP of marketing and creative services Jonah Weiland, VP global publishing initiatives and digital strategy Bobbie Chase, senior story editor Brian Cunningham, and executive editor Mark Doyle, who oversaw the rollout of the Black Label graphic novels. Jim Lee remains the CCO.
About one third of DC’s editorial staff members will be laid off. DC Direct, DC Comics’ merchandising and collectables manufacturer of 22 years, was also stricken by layoffs and will be closed for the time being.
“DC Universe was DOA as soon as the AT&T merger happened,” said one source to The Hollywood Reporter.
The streaming service, DC Universe, has seen a large portion of their staff members laid off as well. Not surprising as WarnerMedia has been shifting its focus to HBO Max in recent weeks.
DC Universe is home to live-action series such as Doom Patrol, Titans and Stargirl (which is moving to The CW), as well as the popular animated series, Young Justice and Harley Quinn. Many said shows are now available on HBO Max. DC Universe launched in May 2018.
The layoffs came as DC Comics was on the precipice of their major online event, DC Fandome. The 24 hour event is set for Aug. 22 and consists of a massive star studded line up from across the multiverse. An official DC Comics statement has not yet been made and, as of right now, Fandome is still set to take place.
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