The CW Restructures: Key Executives Among Those Laid Off

The CW has officially laid off around 35 employees, including key executives Liz Wise Lyall and Betsy Slenzak, amid a restructuring effort. Liz, the head of scripted programming, has been with the network for over 14 years, while Betsy, who led unscripted content, joined last year from NBCUniversal. The new president, Brad Schwartz, described these layoffs as a painful but necessary decision for the company’s future.

In the wake of recent layoffs at The CW, notable figures such as Liz Wise Lyall, the Scripted Programming Chief, and Betsy Slenzak, the Unscripted Programming Deputy, have been impacted. The Nexstar-owned network reportedly let go of about 35 employees, a difficult decision described by the new President Brad Schwartz as one of the hardest a company can make. Liz Wise Lyall, who spent more than 14 years at The CW, oversaw major series like ‘Riverdale’ and ‘The Flash.’ Betsy Slenzak, previously with NBCUniversal, contributed to the development of various reality shows before her departure.

The CW is a significant player in television, known for its mix of scripted dramas and unscripted reality programming. Under the recent leadership of President Brad Schwartz, the network has undergone substantial restructuring, reflected in the recent layoffs. The departure of seasoned executives like Wise Lyall and Slenzak marks a pivotal turn for the company, impacting its future programming strategy and creative direction.

The layoffs at The CW highlight the challenges networks face in the current landscape, as shifts in leadership and programming staff signal a new era. Liz Wise Lyall’s exit from overseeing scripted content and Betsy Slenzak’s departure from unscripted programming illustrate the depth of these changes. The network’s ongoing evolution will be closely watched as it adjusts to new strategies under its new president.

Original Source: deadline.com