The Daily Wire, a conservative media company co-founded by Ben Shapiro, confirmed a round of layoffs earlier this month. The company stated that approximately 13% of its workforce was affected, with the reductions largely concentrated at its Nashville headquarters.
What happened
The Daily Wire confirmed a restructuring that included layoffs across a number of teams. The company issued an official statement on May 1, indicating that the cuts were primarily focused on its Nashville production office. Co-founder Ben Shapiro later specified that roughly 13% of the workforce had been laid off since the beginning of the year.
How many employees affected
Approximately 13% of The Daily Wire's workforce was affected by the layoffs. While former employee Candace Owens initially claimed higher percentages, Ben Shapiro provided the 13% figure. An exact number of employees was not disclosed.
Why layoffs happened
The Daily Wire cited new investments in "formats, locations, and production models" as the reason for its "evolved" status in Nashville. The company stated that the restructuring and layoffs were a product of location expansion, having added production staff in Washington D.C., the Northeast, and Florida. This shift allows The Daily Wire to focus resources on an "ambitious slate of new entertainment projects" planned for release this year.
Company background
Founded in 2015 by Ben Shapiro and Jeremy Boreing, The Daily Wire is a multifaceted conservative media company. Ben Shapiro, known for criticizing liberal politics and media, gained prominence through his podcast and radio show, "The Ben Shapiro Show." The company expanded its programming significantly between 2017 and 2018, adding multiple shows. In 2020, The Daily Wire relocated its headquarters from California to Nashville, Tennessee.
Industry impact
The layoffs at The Daily Wire have drawn criticism from prominent voices, including former host Candace Owens. The company has also been the subject of articles questioning its future and viability as a conservative media outlet.
What's next
Ben Shapiro has stated he is personally working to help find new employment for those who were laid off. The Daily Wire plans to continue focusing its resources on new entertainment projects and its expanded production presence in other locations.