For years, the top job at Disney has seen its share of drama, but the last six years have been particularly turbulent – almost like an episode of the HBO show Succession. Bob Iger led Disney to huge financial success and oversaw major company purchases, then stepped down as CEO in 2020, appointing Bob Chapek as his replacement. This transition happened right before the COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread closures of Disney’s theme parks, movie productions, and other operations. Since then, things have been unstable, with Chapek ultimately being removed and Iger returning as CEO.
The situation at Disney has shifted again. According to The Wall Street Journal, Bob Iger plans to step down as CEO before his contract ends, likely sometime in 2026. He’s reportedly become tired of the demands of the job, including public disagreements like the one involving Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension. While Disney and Iger haven’t confirmed this report, the story is still developing.
Bob Iger Set to Leave Disney Early, With Successor Still Not Named
Bob Iger stepping down now feels natural considering the circumstances of his return. He wasn’t originally intended to stay long-term, and his comeback in 2022 followed dissatisfaction with the previous CEO. From the start, his role was meant to be temporary – initially around two years – with a clear focus on developing a plan for his successor, something he began working on four years ago.
Fans are interested in Bob Iger’s return as Disney CEO, but Wall Street is watching even more closely. Disney’s stock price has fallen significantly from its peak in 2021—from $197 to its current value of $112.80. Recent reporting by the LA Times revealed that Disney Chairman James P. Gorman was given the responsibility of finding a successor when he became chairman.
The search for Disney’s next CEO is still ongoing, but several executives are considered top contenders. Josh D’Amaro, who leads Disney’s parks and resorts, is widely seen as a strong possibility. Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment, is also a potential candidate, though some reports suggest her involvement in ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel could create challenges. Alan Bergman, Walden’s co-chair, and Jimmy Pitaro, head of ESPN, are also being considered for the role.
Disney plans to announce Bob Iger’s replacement as CEO around the beginning of 2026. We might learn who that person is at their shareholder meeting on March 18th.
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2026-01-31 02:10