Disney’s Leadership Shuffle: The Entertainment Giant Charts a New Course Amid the Industry Storm
In a move that’s sending ripples through the entertainment world, The Walt Disney Company announced major leadership changes that will reshape its future. The house that Mickey built is getting both a new chairman and, eventually, a new CEO, marking one of the most significant leadership transitions in the company’s recent history.
Breaking Down the Big Changes
James Gorman, currently CEO of Morgan Stanley, will step into the chairman’s role in early 2025, replacing Mark Parker, who served barely a year in the position. This quick turnover—Disney’s fourth board chair in just over three years—highlights the challenges facing one of entertainment’s most iconic companies.
But that’s not all. The company dropped another bombshell: Bob Iger, Disney’s current CEO, will pass the torch to a new leader in early 2026. This timeline finally establishes a firm date for Iger’s much-discussed departure, although some industry observers may view this with caution due to Iger’s history of delayed exits.
Why This Matters
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Disney. The entertainment landscape is shifting like sand under their feet.
- Streaming Success: Disney+ has finally turned profitable, a bright spot in the company’s portfolio
- Movie Challenges: Traditional cinema attendance is declining as viewers increasingly prefer streaming.
- Park Performance: Recent reports show concerning signs of reduced spending at US theme parks.
- TV Troubles: Traditional television, including ESPN and ABC, faces an uncertain future.
The Search for Disney’s Next Leader
Under the direction of incoming chairman Gorman, the succession planning committee is already looking for Iger’s replacement. Several internal candidates are in the running:
- Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, Disney Entertainment co-chairs
- Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN Chairman
- Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman
However, we’re not just looking for internal talent; we’re also considering external candidates.
The Iger Factor
Bob Iger’s relationship with retirement has become something of a Hollywood legend. After stepping down just before the pandemic hit in 2020, he returned in late 2022 to replace Bob Chapek following a troubled period for the company. Under his recent leadership, Disney has:
- Resolved major labor disputes with writers, directors, and actors
- Made Disney+ profitable
- Successfully navigated boardroom challenges
- Partially restored investor confidence
Looking Ahead
Disney faces a critical period as it navigates this transition. The company must balance:
- Maintaining streaming momentum
- Revitalizing park attendance
- Adapting to changing viewer habits
- We are facing competition from emerging entertainment platforms such as TikTok and YouTube.
- The company is preserving its traditional media assets while embracing digital transformation.
As James Gorman prepares to take the helm as chairman, he’ll need to steer Disney through these choppy waters while finding the right captain to replace Iger. The entertainment giant’s future hangs in the balance, and the industry will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds.
The next few years will be crucial for Disney as it works to maintain its magic in an increasingly digital world. With new leadership on the horizon and clear challenges ahead, the company that brought us Mickey Mouse is once again reimagining itself for a new era.
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