Disney Hires Daria Cercek, Former Co-President at Paramount, as President of Disney Live Action – Theatrical Division

Lauren Shahan

A woman with shoulder-length hair and a black top stands in front of a dark background with "Walt Disney Studios" text on the left.

Disney Hires Daria Cercek, Former Co-President at Paramount, as President of Disney Live Action – Theatrical Division

Daria Cercek, former Co-President of the Motion Picture Group at Paramount Pictures, has been hired by Walt Disney Studios as President of Disney Live Action Theatrical Division.

Daria Cercek Hired as President of Disney Live Action Division

A woman with shoulder-length hair and a black top stands in front of a dark background with "Walt Disney Studios" text on the left.
Source: Deadline and Courtesy

According to Deadline, this new role will see Cercek take on all aspects of Disney Live Action’s theatrical projects, oversee the development and production of films that are inspired by the studio’s extensive collection of stories and characters, and support original projects.

Cercek will report to David Greenbaum who is the current President of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios. Greenbaum commented on Cercek’s new role, stating,

Daria’s unique creative talent, passion for storytelling, and deep experience working with world-class filmmakers fits perfectly with Disney’s mission to create unforgettable cinematic experiences that will stand the test of time.

I am thrilled to welcome her to the team and look forward to the incredible contributions she will undoubtedly make.

David Greenbaum, President of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios

While Cercek was with Paramount Pictures, she was a part of the theatrical efforts that occurred post-pandemic. She assisted in overseeing the release of multiple films, including “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” Smile 2,” “A Quiet Place: Day One,” and “Mean Girls.”

Cercek also spoke about her move to the Walt Disney Studios saying,


Disney has long set the standard for timeless storytelling, bringing to life some of the most beloved characters and stories that have captivated generations of audiences around the world. Like so many, I grew up inspired by the magic of Disney, so it is a true privilege to join Alan Bergman, David, and this incredible team. I look forward to working alongside them, and today’s most visionary filmmakers, to build on the studio’s extraordinary legacy.

Daria Cercek, President of Disney Live Action – Theatrical

Before she joined Paramount Pictures, Cercek held the position of Executive Vice President for Production and Development at New Line Cinema, and before that was Senior Vice President of Production and Development for 20th Century Fox.

In February 2024, Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios joined together under the leadership of Greenbaum.

Some of the upcoming live-action films for Disney and 20th Century include “Snow White,” “The Amateur,” “Lilo & Stitch,” “Freakier Friday,” “Moana” live action, “The Devil Wears Prada” sequel, and “Ice Age 6.”

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