Update: Sad Superbowl Sunday as ESPN to Lay Off 200

We reported that ABC Disney is cutting jobs. Officials at Connecticut-based ESPN say the sports broadcasting network will institute a long-term hiring cut of 200 open jobs and reorganize its work force.

ESPN President George Bodenheimer told employees this week that ESPN had a good year in 2008, put must do more ensure its stability and growth as major advertisers struggle with the bad economy.

ESPN employs about 5,700 people worldwide, including 3,400 at its Bristol headquarters.

A Los Angeles production agency that will offer a West Coast version of “SportsCenter” will be excluded from the hiring freeze.

Construction of a new office building and daycare facility at its Bristol hgadquarters also will continue.