Josh D’Amaro the next CEO of Disney
As artificial intelligence and a wave of consolidation reshape the media sector, Walt Disney appointed theme park chief executive Josh D’Amaro on Tuesday. Ending years of uncertainty about succession and placing a seasoned executive in control.
At the company’s annual investor meeting on March 18, D’Amaro, 54, will succeed Bob Iger, 74. Iger will continue to serve as a senior advisor and board member until his retirement on December 31. He is credited with helping to shape modern Disney through agreements with Pixar, Marvel, and 21st Century Fox.
As president and chief content officer, Disney also appointed Dana Walden, a co-head of entertainment and chief creative officer who shares Iger’s philosophy. He has a long list of critical and commercial successes, and has close relationships with talent.
To avoid another stumble, Disney appointed Morgan Stanley veteran James Gorman as its chairman in 2024 to oversee the search for a CEO. Gorman, who led a smooth transition at the Wall Street bank, joined after the House of Mickey Mouse extended Iger’s term for the fifth time until 2026.
“Josh has demonstrated strong vision for the company and a deep understanding of the creative spirit that makes Disney unique,” Gorman said in a statement Tuesday.
Disney shares fell 0.8% in early trading.
