Bob Iger may step down as Disney CEO before his contract expires on 31st December 2026, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Iger has told associates he plans to step back from daily management before the contract’s end, citing frustration with the demands of the role, the Journal reported Friday.
Sources told the publication Iger is “ready to move on from the grind of being CEO” and was frustrated by conflicts at ABC, including the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel in September over on-air remarks about Charlie Kirk’s killer.
Disney’s board expects to announce Iger’s successor in early 2026 and is scheduled to meet next week at the company’s Burbank headquarters, where directors are expected to vote on the next CEO.
“The appointment of the next CEO will be determined by the full Board, and we currently expect to announce the appointment of the Company’s next CEO in early 2026,” Disney chairman James Gorman said in the company’s 2026 proxy statement filed last week.
Who Will Be the Next Disney CEO?
Disney has not publicly identified candidates but confirmed internal contenders are undergoing preparation including mentorship from Iger, external coaching, and engagement with all board directors.
The two leading candidates are: Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, and Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment.
Iger previously retired as CEO in 2020, handing the position to Bob Chapek, before returning in November 2022 following Chapek’s removal. His current contract was extended multiple times during his tenure.
Leave a comment