Disney has appointed Josh D’Amaro, the current head of its parks division, as the new CEO, succeeding Bob Iger. D’Amaro, who has been overseeing the company’s theme parks, cruises, and resorts since 2020, will become the ninth chief executive in Disney’s long history. The experiences division, under his leadership, has been a significant revenue generator, bringing in $36 billion in annual revenue in fiscal 2025 and employing 185,000 people globally.
At 54 years old, D’Amaro takes the helm at a time when Disney is enjoying success with box office hits like “Zootopia 2” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” and its streaming services are thriving. However, the entertainment industry is facing challenges such as the emergence of generative AI, consolidation of streaming giants, and perceived government interference.
The decision to appoint D’Amaro comes after a previous unsuccessful attempt to find a replacement for Iger, which led to Iger returning to the role in 2022 due to performance issues under his successor, Bob Chapek. Disney’s thorough search process began in 2024 with the help of an external consultant, and Iger will continue as a senior advisor and board member until his retirement at the end of the year.
Amid these transitions, Disney faces scrutiny for its handling of controversial content, including the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following remarks by the host. The company’s interactions with the U.S. government and other media entities have raised concerns about potential interference and censorship in the industry.
As Disney navigates these challenges, internal candidates like D’Amaro and Dana Walden are stepping up as potential successors. D’Amaro’s extensive experience in leading Disney’s investments and partnerships, coupled with Walden’s background in overseeing the company’s streaming and content divisions, position them well for their new roles. Walden will take on the role of chief creative officer, reporting to D’Amaro, as they prepare to assume their positions on March 18.