Hello Sunshine reportedly cuts about 30 jobs, roughly 50% of staff

Actress Reese Witherspoon’s production company Hello Sunshine has laid off approximately 30 employees, roughly 50% of its staff, Variety said, citing multiple sources.

The cuts follow Witherspoon’s buyback of Hello Sunshine from Candle Media earlier in October 2026, with support from French media group Mediawan. Hello Sunshine representatives declined Variety’s request for comment.

Earlier cuts under Candle Media

Hello Sunshine had undergone at least 4 earlier rounds of staff reductions under Candle Media. Its former owner closed the company’s kids and animation unit in 2023, then consolidated its live-action operations, including Hello Sunshine’s, into Candle Studios in 2024.

A narrower focus

Variety’s sources said Hello Sunshine is substantially reducing its direct-to-consumer division and will focus primarily on film, television and Reese’s Book Club.

TheWrap described Hello Sunshine’s direct-to-consumer efforts as seeking to turn fans into customers for content and products recommended by Witherspoon. The remaining Hello Sunshine staff work in film and television, the book club, social and digital marketing, and partnerships.

Reese’s Book Club has also become a hub for developing film and television projects. That role connects the book club to the screen production work that sources say will remain a primary focus.