DC FanDome takes place in just under two weeks. The event is set to be one of the largest celebrations of the DC Comics brand that has ever taken place. Excitement was running high, with promises of new trailers, new comic story arcs, new collectibles, and new castings for movie and TV shows. However, after today’s events, the online convention is going to have a much different feel.
Word is coming out that there have been a massive number of lay offs at Warner Bros. today. Nearly every division of the company has been hit hard, and DC Comics was no exception. Many talented folks at DC Comics have been let go, and the cuts may not be over. In the restructuring, DC Universe looks to be on the way out, with content being moved to other platforms such as HBO Max and the CW. While much of the focus is on the print and digital divisions of DC Comics, we’re heartbroken to share news that DC Direct has been shuttered in the lay offs.
From THR:
Also a victim of the layoffs: DC Direct, the company’s in-house merchandise and collectibles manufacturer. The division has been shuttered after 22 years, another move that was rumored when Warner Bros. Consumer Products began taking a more active role in DC merchandising.
The toy and collectible division of DC Comics has been around for some 22 years. In 2012 the division was rebranded as DC Collectibles. However, ahead of New York Toy Fair 2020, they brought back the DC Direct name that many fans were familiar with. At Toyark, we have been covering DC Direct since our launch in 2008. We’ve loved covering their assorted action figures, statues, and replicas over the years. We want to express our condolences to all who are affected by the layoffs. We hope the talented designers, managers, sculptors, and other members of DC Direct find a new place to share their talents soon. Check the links below for more comprehensive breakdowns of the layoffs.
Sources: The Hollywood Report • ComicBook.com
CompaniesDC CollectiblesDC Direct