Standby for Nexstar Layoffs...

Because nothing says “trimming the tree” like trimming the workforce. Let’s break it down using the six Ws:

Who: Nexstar employees—especially in broadcasting and sales. Roughly 260 of them (or, as corporate would call it, “a rounding error in our Excel sheet of sadness”). This also coincides with the recent announcement of longtime Hill Editor-in-Chief Bob Cusack’s exit, although Nexstar insists the two are unrelated.

What: Layoffs. A heartwarming seasonal tradition in the TV biz. This time, Nexstar is “streamlining operations” to “focus on growth.” Translation? Growth of everyone else’s workload.

Where: Across Nexstar’s sprawling empire—116 markets to be exact. From Anchorage to Albuquerque, no newsroom is safe from the scythe of corporate cost-cutting. Local stations are bearing the brunt of these cuts, further stretching already threadbare teams.

When: Now. Because nothing says “Happy Holidays” like a meeting that begins with, “We value your contributions… BUT.”

Why: The soft advertising market and the money pit that is The CW. Despite The CW narrowing its losses, thanks to pivoting to cheaper unscripted and sports programming (hello, LIV Golf and NASCAR Xfinity), the savings apparently weren’t enough to balance Nexstar’s books. Nexstar executives, like President Mike Biard, have been on a streamlining streak, touting “long-term opportunities” while wielding the budgetary axe.

WTF: Here’s the kicker: these layoffs represent “less than 2%” of Nexstar’s 13,000-strong workforce. You’d think the other 98% would be thrilled, but if history is any indicator, they’re about to inherit the duties of those shown the door. So, to those left standing: good luck balancing three job titles on one salary.

P.S.: Rumor has it a certain CEO is doing just fine. So, if you need him, he’ll be swimming in his Scrooge McDuck-style money vault while you’re “collaborating” your way to burnout.

Bonus: The Internet Weighs In

Over on Reddit, the anonymous types share thoughts about this latest round of corporate cheer:

• “The CW’s cheaper programming didn’t save jobs? Shocker. But at least we have more WWE wrestling.”

• “Acting to accelerate innovation sounds a lot like ‘You’re fired, but we’ll still use your desk.’”

• “Local TV already feels like a Hunger Games tribute. Can’t wait to see what happens when 10 reporters split one station car.”

• “If the layoffs are ‘unrelated’ to The Hill, then why is the timing suspiciously perfect?”

As always, the internet provides the gallows humor to match the industry’s darkest days. Stay strong out there.