Media Industry Layoffs: Gaming Site Restart Shuts Down Editorial, TikTok Cuts 250 in Nashville

The media industry saw significant job cuts this week, with gaming website Restart laying off its entire editorial team and TikTok eliminating 250 positions at its Nashville office. Restart, a Walmart-sponsored gaming site operated by content marketing agency Moonrock, announced the layoffs on Friday via former editor-in-chief Brandy Berthelson, who confirmed the move on social media. The site, launched in late 2024, had aimed to provide independent gaming coverage but has now ceased editorial operations, with other staffers also posting about their dismissals.

Separately, TikTok laid off 250 employees at its Nashville office, which includes content moderation functions. The company did not provide a detailed reason for the cuts, but the move is part of broader restructuring efforts. The Nashville office closure marks a significant reduction in TikTok's U.S. footprint, though the company continues to operate other facilities. These layoffs come amid ongoing challenges in the media and tech sectors, where companies are reassessing costs and priorities.

In related regulatory news, the Trump administration's FCC voted to eliminate the TV ownership cap, a move that could allow larger media consolidation. Advocacy groups have criticized the decision, saying it will enable 'Trump-aligned billionaires' to acquire more stations. This regulatory change, while not a direct layoff, signals a shift in media industry dynamics that could impact employment and ownership structures.