Disney has appointed Josh D’Amaro, the current head of its parks division, to take over as the company’s CEO following Bob Iger’s tenure. D’Amaro, who has been overseeing Disney’s theme parks, cruises, and resorts since 2020, will become the ninth CEO in the company’s long history. The experiences division led by D’Amaro has been a significant revenue generator for Disney, raking in $36 billion in annual revenue in fiscal 2025 and employing 185,000 people globally.
Taking the helm at a time of prosperity for Disney, with successful box office hits like “Zootopia 2” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” as well as a thriving streaming business, D’Amaro faces challenges amidst industry uncertainties. Factors such as the emergence of generative AI, consolidation within the streaming industry, and concerns over government interventions in entertainment companies have added complexity to the landscape.
This leadership transition follows a previous failed attempt to replace Iger four years ago, which led to his return to the CEO position due to performance issues under his successor, Bob Chapek. Disney’s meticulous search for its next CEO began in 2024, spearheaded by Gorman, who was enlisted to lead the effort after the establishment of a succession planning committee in 2023. Iger will continue to serve as a senior advisor and board member until his retirement at the end of the year.
Amidst this change, Disney faces scrutiny and turmoil, with past controversies involving the company’s decisions attracting attention. Recent incidents, such as the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following comments made by the host, sparked criticism and raised questions about external influences on entertainment content. The company’s interactions with government entities and the media industry have been subject to scrutiny, particularly in light of potential regulatory implications.
The internal selection of D’Amaro as CEO aligns with expectations of an internal candidate succeeding Iger. D’Amaro’s extensive experience with Disney, dating back to 1998, positions him well to lead the company’s diverse entertainment ventures. Alongside Dana Walden, who has been instrumental in overseeing Disney’s streaming business, D’Amaro will navigate the challenges and opportunities inherent in leading a multifaceted entertainment conglomerate.
As Disney transitions to new leadership under D’Amaro and Walden, effective March 18, the company aims to leverage their expertise in driving its continued growth and innovation across its various divisions. This strategic move underscores Disney’s commitment to internal talent development and succession planning within its corporate structure.
