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Josh D’Amaro to Succeed Bob Iger as Disney CEO on March 18, 2026

The incoming leader signals focus on parks growth, unified creative control, responsible use of AI under investor scrutiny.

Overview

  • Dana Walden will become President and Chief Creative Officer on March 18, centralizing creative oversight across film, TV and streaming.
  • Bob Iger will step back from day‑to‑day duties on March 18 and remain an employee and advisor through the end of 2026.
  • In a joint ABC interview, D’Amaro described himself as a “big risk taker,” highlighting the planned Disneyland Abu Dhabi project and embracing AI as a tool for creators.
  • Recent results showed record quarterly revenue of about $10 billion for parks and cruises and sharply higher streaming profits, though shares fell roughly 7% earlier this week.
  • D’Amaro was chosen after an extensive board‑run search that considered internal and external candidates, with reporting indicating organizational continuity for leaders such as Alan Bergman and James Pitaro.