Hallmark Shakes Up Workforce with Major Layoffs: What This Means for Your Favorite Shows

Hallmark Media just made a pretty big move—cutting 30 jobs, including the Vice President of Production role once held by Jimmy Holcomb. It’s part of a bigger plan to keep up with the entertainment world, which honestly never stops changing.

They’re also packing up their longtime Studio City headquarters and heading to Burbank. Oh, and Michelle Vicary is back on board—she played a huge part in creating some of Hallmark’s most popular shows. It feels like they’re trying to tap into what made them special in the first place, even as they look ahead.

The Layoffs: A Necessary Evil?

So, Hallmark Media decided to cut 30 jobs across several departments. According to a company spokesperson, it’s all about shifting the workforce to fit what the business needs right now.

Jimmy Holcomb, the now-former Vice President of Production, was among those let go. He’d been a key player, managing the production of Movies of the Week, series, and specials for Hallmark’s channels.

Who is Jimmy Holcomb?

Holcomb wasn’t just another exec—he genuinely drove a lot of Hallmark’s successes. He helped push Hallmark Media into new projects around the world.

One standout example? He worked on *The Watsons Go to Birmingham*, which got funding from Walden Media. His exit definitely signals a shift in how Hallmark is thinking about leadership and the future.

Why the Layoffs?

The entertainment industry is in the middle of a pretty wild transformation, and Hallmark isn’t immune. The company said the layoffs are about rethinking roles and functions to better match what the business needs now.

It’s not easy—layoffs never are—but Hallmark seems to believe this is the way forward if they want to invest in the right areas for the future.

Michelle Vicary’s Return: A Beacon of Hope

One of the more talked-about moves is Michelle Vicary coming back. She’s an industry veteran and helped launch Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama.

Her return feels like a signal that Hallmark wants to reconnect with the kind of programming fans loved. Maybe they’re hoping she can help bring back that spark.

Who is Michelle Vicary?

Vicary was Crown Media’s lead programming and production executive until she left in 2021. She’d been there since the start, helping develop hits like *When Calls the Heart* and *Good Witch*.

She also ran the nine-year stretch of the Emmy-nominated daytime show *Home & Family*. Her experience with Hallmark’s brand runs deep, so her comeback seems like a pretty big deal.

Relocating to Burbank: A Fresh Start

As part of all these changes, Hallmark is leaving its old Ventura Boulevard spot in Studio City. They’re moving into a new building in Burbank, not far from the old NBC lot.

This isn’t just about a change of scenery. It feels like they’re trying to start fresh and put themselves closer to the heart of the entertainment business.

Why Burbank?

Burbank is packed with studios and production companies—it’s kind of the place to be if you’re in TV and film. Hallmark’s move puts them right in the thick of it, which could open up some interesting doors.

It’s also a pretty clear sign that they’re serious about evolving with the times, not just sticking to old habits.

What Lies Ahead for Hallmark?

With all these changes—layoffs, bringing back Michelle Vicary, and moving to Burbank—Hallmark is clearly in a transition. It’s hard to tell exactly where things will land, but they seem determined to adapt.

The Future of Hallmark Programming

With Vicary back in charge of production and original programming, there’s a good chance fans will see more of that classic Hallmark vibe. She’s got a track record for knowing what the audience wants, so maybe she’ll help Hallmark find its groove again while still trying out a few new things.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Hallmark

Hallmark Media’s recent changes signal a fresh start for the company.
The layoffs, though tough, seem to be part of a bigger plan to help Hallmark adapt to the entertainment industry’s shifting demands.

Bringing back Michelle Vicary and relocating to Burbank both hint at a renewed focus on the company’s roots.
At the same time, these moves show Hallmark’s not afraid to shake things up for the future.

As Hallmark moves through this transition, it’ll be worth watching how the changes shape its shows and strategy.
Honestly, it’s hard to imagine Hallmark fading quietly into the background—they’re clearly making moves to stay in the game.