Microsoft's Xbox Entertainment Studios Axes Nancy Tellem! Will Steven Spielberg's 'Halo' Series Find New Home?

Microsoft has handed out its last wave of 18,000 pink slips to its employees. Just as scheduled, the staff at Xbox Entertainment Studios, including studio chief Nancy Tellem, have been let go, leaving many projects, including the Halo TV series from Steven Spielberg in limbo.  

As we mentioned here, the studio was expecting an estimated 18,000 layoffs in July. CEO Satya Nadella previously explained that this shutdown was all an effort to restructure Microsoft's core business plan. More layoffs were expected before the studio shut its doors and officially closed down for good.

We also mentioned that studio chief Tellem and executive VP Jordan Levin were supposed remain on board, while shopping existing projects to potential buyers. Whether these projects will see in the light of day is a whole different matter. Luckily, AMC stepped in and bought the rights from Xbox for the U.K. drama series, Humans. 

In a previous press statement released by Microsoft, "The reductions happening today are spread across many different business units, and many different countries. We will continue to go through this process in the most thoughtful manner possible, with the deepest respect for affected individuals and recognition of their service to the company."

Now The Hollywood Reporter confirms Tellem and Levin are now part of the final round of layoffs. With projects cancelled, the rights have now been reverted back to the creators.

Tellem has joined the board of e-commerce startup Dot & Bo, while Levin has moved on as a free agent.

According to Variety, Spielberg's Halo appears to still be in limbo, even while a deal is being negotiated with Showtime. Although the project remains to be in the works at Showtime, it has not received a series order.

We wish the discharged employees well and hope they recover with steady employment soon. 

Xbox Entertainment Studios has laid off all its employees, leaving many projects in limbo. Readers, what do you think of this economical situation?