Layoffs: National Geographic also fired its last staff writers, now relying on freelance writers

National Geographic magazine reportedly fired its last staff writers on Wednesday, a century after it was first published in 1888. The magazine that brings readers the best of science and the natural world in its iconic monthly publication will disappear from newsstands next year, The Washington Post has reported. The publication has dropped a total of 19 writers, according to reports and tweets from multiple editorial members.

Senior writers tweeted information

“My new National Geographic just arrived, including my latest feature—my 16th and last as a senior writer,” National Geographic senior writer Craig A. Welch wrote on Twitter. Nat Geo would like to thank all of its staff writers. I’ve been very fortunate. I get to work with incredible journalists and get to tell important, global stories. It’s an honor.”

Magazine writer and editor Nina Strochlik also reported the job cuts on Twitter. He wrote, “@NatGeo this was a great performance. My colleague and I were incredibly lucky to be the last of the staff writers.”

magazine retrenchment

This is the second round of job cuts at National Geographic magazine as part of cost-cutting measures adopted by the magazine’s parent company, Disney. The Guardian said the publication has seen a number of editorial changes since 2015, including the removal of six top editors in September.

Job cuts also affected the magazine’s contracts with many photographers, who contributed to its stunning visual storytelling efforts. According to The Washington Post, the magazine will now hire freelance writers to curate its content with the help of its remaining editors.