Brilio.net/en - National Geographic, the long running and deeply respected world science magazine, was purchased by Rupert Murdochs 21st Century Foxin September, but Murdochs new ownership began today and me marked the occasion byfiring approximately 200 employeesfrom the magazine and television network.
Many of the terminated employees were respected writers, photographers, and editors for the world recognized magazine and television network.Some of the fired talent had been with the publication for over twenty years. Such a major shakeup will radically change the content of the long-running brand, whichNational Geographic CEO previously said would not happen.
The magazine fired several key pieces to its success over the past few decades. The magazines astoundingphotography department was deeply impacted, as Murdoch fired two veteran photography editors, several award-winning photographers, and page editors. The layoffs are by far the biggest in National Geographics 127-year history.
In September, the National Geographic Society struck a $725 Million deal with Rupert Murdochs 21th Century Fox that would give Fox control over the Societys media rights. This includes the long running magazine, the popular set of maps, and the NatGeo television network.
National Geographic found itself in financial trouble as its brand name weakened and sales declined with the rise of the internet. The deal with Murdoch will ensure that the brand will survive. Some were initially optimistic that the magazine would continue relatively unaffected, but the major layoffs proved that the magazine would be changing.
The National Geographic brand is another gem in 21st Century Foxs impressive lineup of newspapers, magazines, and television channels. Murdoch owns all of the Fox Networks, The Wall Street Journal, and publishing giant HarperCollins.
National Geographic has dramatically changed, but the CEO and remaining staff members are confident that the magazine will grow while staying true to the original mission. In a letter to the dismissed employees, CEO Gary Knell thanked employees for years of service and promised to fulfill the magazines mission statement.
Originally by Andrew Wertz via Deadstate.org
(brl/red)
