The Messenger Shuts Down Abruptly, Leaving 300 Journalists Jobless

The digital news outlet's sudden closure sparks a class-action lawsuit and criticism of its leadership for failing to communicate and secure funding.

• The Messenger, a digital news outlet, abruptly shut down, laying off 300 journalists without severance or notice, violating New York's WARN Act.
• CEO Jimmy Finkelstein and editor-in-chief Dan Wakeford faced criticism for lack of leadership and communication, leading to a chaotic final days.
• The company burned through its $50 million funding in less than a year, failing to secure additional investments despite last-minute efforts.
• Ex-staffers filed a class-action lawsuit for unpaid wages and benefits, highlighting the sudden loss of health insurance and severance pay.
• The Messenger struggled with a flawed business model, relying on sensationalist content and high salaries, which led to its financial downfall.

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