Starz Reduces Staff by 7% Following Lionsgate Split

Starz Positions for Financial Growth Following Lionsgate Separation

In its recent Q4 earnings report, Starz highlighted 2026 as a significant "positive financial inflection point" as the company plans to direct its efforts toward profitability and generating positive free cash flow after ending its partnership with Lionsgate. Along with expanding OTT subscriber growth and increasing content ownership, the company is implementing cost-reduction measures, which may include staff reductions.

As of Q4 2025, Starz reported a total of 17.6 million subscribers in the U.S., marking an increase of 170,000, primarily driven by 12.7 million OTT subscribers. However, the company also reported a Q4 net loss of $20.7 million, reflecting a narrowing of losses post-separation from Lionsgate.

"2025 was a very successful year, one in which we exceeded all of our financial guidance," said CEO Hirsch during the earnings call. "It’s a feat we’re especially proud of amidst the pressures you see happening across the industry."

In preparation for its separation from Lionsgate, Starz had previously laid off 10% of its workforce in 2023. As the company navigates this transition, the emphasis remains on fostering financial stability while managing operational costs.