Disney Appoints James Gorman to Lead CEO Succession Planning

Morgan Stanley's executive chairman will oversee the search for Bob Iger's successor, with internal and external candidates under consideration.

Bob Iger returned as Disney CEO in 2022 after his chosen successor, Bob Chapek, was ousted.
Iger's contract has been extended to 2026, with succession planning a top priority for the board.
James Gorman joined Disney's board earlier this year and has experience in succession planning from Morgan Stanley.
The succession planning committee, formed in January 2023, has met six times this fiscal year.
Potential internal candidates include Disney Entertainment co-chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, and ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro.