The Walt Disney Company has named parks chief Josh D’Amaro as its new chief executive officer (CEO), effective March 18, 2026, replacing the company’s longtime chief executive Bob Iger.
Iger is expected to serve in a senior advisor role through the end of his contract on December 31, 2026.
D’Amaro, who currently serves as president of a corporate unit known as Disney Experiences, will take over the entertainment empire amid a turbulent period.
Studios are grappling with declining television audiences, the rise of generative artificial intelligence, intense scrutiny from U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, regulatory pressure and union unrest.
Disney’s sprawling empire includes the ABC broadcast network, streaming platforms Hulu and Disney+, Marvel Studios, the Star Wars franchise, Pixar and theme parks around the world.
The new CEO expressed his gratitude following the announcement, saying: “I am immensely grateful to the Board of Directors for entrusting me with leadership of a company that means so much to me and to millions of people around the world. »
Iger also welcomed the move and congratulated his designated successor, saying, “Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO. »
Who is Josh D’Amaro?
Josh D’Amaro graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in business administration. Over a decades-long career, D’Amaro held leadership positions within the company in the United States and internationally.
According to Walt Disney Company, the 55-year-old new CEO has worked in finance, business strategy, marketing, creative development and operations.
He joined Disney in 1998 at the Disneyland Resort and his previous roles with the company include president of Disneyland Resort and president of Walt Disney World Resort.
D’Amaro also serves on the national board of directors for Make-A-Wish America, a longtime Disney partner.
