Following the announcement of James P. Gorman as the new Chairman of the Board, it has been confirmed when the new Disney CEO will be announced.
New Disney CEO to be Announced in Early 2026
In a press release shared by The Walt Disney Company, Disney confirmed its plans to announce current CEO Bob Iger’s successor in early 2026.
A critical priority before us is to appoint a new CEO, which we now expect to announce in early 2026. This timing reflects the progress the Succession Planning Committee and the Board are making, and will allow ample time for a successful transition before the conclusion of Bob Iger’s contract in December 2026.
James P. Gorman, soon-to-be Disney Chairman of the Board
Gorman is the leader of the committee tasked to find Disney’s next CEO. He is currently the Executive Chairman of Morgan Stanley, but is set to step down from that role as previously announced on December 31, 2024.
Iger returned for a second run as CEO following the firing of his first successor, Bob Chapek. In previous interviews, Iger has admitted being “obsessed” with finding his replacement and called Chapek his “biggest regret.”
The search for the new Disney CEO has reportedly narrowed down to four internal candidates: Dana Walden, Jimmy Pitaro, Alan Bergman, and Josh D’Amaro. Disney said today that it is still reviewing both internal and external candidates.
Iger is set to step down from his role in 2026, once his contract expires. It has already been extended once since he returned in 2022.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.