When It Comes To Leading Disney, Who Will Replace Bob Iger?

TV & Film

Jan 24

The curtain is closing on an era of the Walt Disney Company’s leadership as Bob Iger’s contract expires at the end of 2026. This time, Iger is planning on a more permanent departure from the role, reportedly coaching and working closely with the potential candidates to replace him. Disney recently filed a proxy statement regarding what happened in 2025, board meeting dates for the new year, and the salaries of Iger and colleagues. Following the filing, Disney chairman James Gorman said they “currently expect to announce the appointment of the Company’s next CEO in early 2026.” According to the Los Angeles Times, there are four main contenders in this race.

Disney has kept a tight lid on specific deliberations. All four candidates are internal, bringing different experiences that can collectively benefit the company's operations.

RELATED:

Featured

Should 'Gravity Falls' Get a Sequel? Exploring The Possibilities For A New Series

Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro is high on the list, reportedly a Wall Street favorite. Dana Walden, executive of television and streaming, is not too far behind D’Amaro on the list; should Walden be selected, she would be the first female CEO of the company. Alan Bergman, film studio head, and Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN chairman, are the final two names on the list.

Image Source: Fox Business

Even without Iger’s coaching, the potential candidate will not be thrown into the deep end. In the proxy, it explained, “The Succession Planning Committee is focused on positioning the new CEO for long-term success at the Company by, among other things, surrounding the new CEO with a team of senior executives who can work together to lead the Company into the future.” Media analyst Robert Fishman pointed out, “They must prove to investors that the value of their premium content and theme parks is meaningful. Investors need confidence that their streaming pivot, which is well underway, will have a big payoff — more than what investors can appreciate today.”

CultureSlate: Made by humans, for humans

Please consider supporting our AI-free content via our Patreon page.

READ NEXT:

Featured