Disney+ Canada lays off content chief Stephanie Azam, pulls brakes on originals strategy

Stephanie Azam

Stephanie Azam has been let go as director of content for Disney+ Canada, less than a year after she was appointed to the role.

The veteran Telefilm Canada exec joined Disney in August 2022, following a short stint at MK2 Mile End, the Quebec-based independent distribution firm, to lead Canadian content strategy.

However, Disney has not yet placed a single order for a Canadian original for Disney+, despite some projects put into development, and the Mouse House has reportedly now paused original commissions in Canada.

Azam’s departure comes as part of Disney’s wider restructuring, with CEO Bob Iger seeking to cut around 7,000 jobs and make $3bn in savings.

Jasan Badal, VP and general manager of Disney+ in Canada, is to remain in his role, which he took in October 2021.

Azam spent more than 13 years at Canadian government-owned Telefilm Canada, where she oversaw production financing for English-speaking Canada, joining in 2008 as a marketing and distribution specialist, before being promoted to national director of feature film in 2009, and staying in the role until her move to MK2 Mile End.

News of Azam’s departure was first reported by Variety.