Scripps Cuts 268 Jobs as AI and Automation Reshape Local TV News

Broadcast giant implements AI-driven restructuring

E.W. Scripps Co. is eliminating 268 positions across its television station portfolio as the company accelerates a shift toward artificial intelligence, automation, and streaming-first news operations. CEO Adam Symson disclosed the cuts in a letter to employees Tuesday, framing the reductions as part of a broader transformation rather than simple cost-cutting.

The Cincinnati-based broadcaster operates three Michigan stations—WXYZ-TV and WMYD-TV in Detroit, plus WXMI-TV in Grand Rapids—though the company has not disclosed how many positions were eliminated at specific locations. Station management did not immediately respond to inquiries about local impact.

Why it matters

Scripps' restructuring illustrates how legacy broadcasters are using AI to fundamentally redesign newsroom workflows rather than simply augment existing operations. The company's emphasis on "transformation" over "cost reduction" signals an industry-wide reckoning: local TV stations must either reinvent their production models or face continued margin pressure from declining linear viewership and advertising revenue.

Streaming and centralization drive new model

Symson outlined several operational changes enabled by the workforce reduction. Scripps plans to launch 24/7 local news streaming channels, consolidate digital production work into centralized hubs, and deploy proprietary AI systems developed by its own technology teams. The goal is redirecting resources away from production tasks and toward field reporting.

"New AI systems and other technology designed and developed by Scripps employees is making this possible," Symson wrote in the employee message.

The company has been building toward this model for approximately three years through investments in automated workflows, according to the CEO. He positioned the changes as necessary to create a sustainable business model while competitors respond to economic pressure with cuts alone.

Industry-wide trend accelerates

Scripps joins a growing list of media companies deploying AI to reshape news production. The broadcast sector faces particular pressure as audiences migrate to streaming platforms and digital advertising continues to erode traditional revenue streams. Automation technologies now handle tasks ranging from video editing to caption generation, allowing newsrooms to produce more content with fewer staff.

Symson acknowledged the human cost of the restructuring in his letter. "These are teammates who have helped build and serve this company in important ways, and we are deeply grateful for everything they have contributed," he wrote.

The Detroit News first reported the layoffs and Scripps' transformation plans. The company recently sold its Lansing station, WSYM, to Gray Media in May 2026.