Explaining a layoff without sounding bitter - 9 months and counting

They always ask why I left, and I freeze. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I do not want to blame the company. Do they ask follow-ups?

If a company has been in the news for layoffs, you can mention that. Often the interviewer already knows.

Say it plainly and move on to what you can do. Interviewers usually move on if you do.