Disney, the entertainment powerhouse that has brought us magical memories for a century, is once again at a crossroads. As the calendar turns to 2025, speculation about major changes within the company has reached a fever pitch. Industry insiders are buzzing with predictions about leadership transitions, executive exits, and how these changes might shape Disney’s future.
While 2024 saw Disney rebound at the box office with hits like Inside Out 2 and Moana 2 and achieve record-breaking financial film milestones, the year also brought its share of challenges.
Related: Bob Iger Admits Disney is ‘Quietly Killing’ Some of Its Films
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened to mixed reviews, sparking debate among fans about the reimagining of Splash Mountain. Despite this, Disney became the first studio to surpass $5 billion globally post-pandemic, reaffirming its dominance in the entertainment industry.
But behind the scenes, leadership questions have dominated discussions. With Bob Iger’s tenure extended through 2026, the company faces mounting pressure to identify his successor. Will 2025 finally be the year Disney unveils its next CEO?
Bob Iger: Steering the Ship
Bob Iger’s return to Disney in 2022 marked a pivotal moment for the company. After stepping back in 2020, Iger was asked to return to stabilize Disney following Bob Chapek’s tumultuous tenure. Originally slated to stay only until the end of 2024, Iger’s contract extension suggests a longer transition period, ensuring his successor has a smooth path forward.
Yet, many experts believe 2025 could be the year Iger steps aside, announcing a new leader to take Disney into its next chapter.
Dana Walden: The Frontrunner or Soon-to-Be Former Executive?
One of the most talked-about candidates for Disney’s top job is Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment. Known for her extensive experience and savvy leadership, Walden has been a driving force behind Disney’s entertainment strategy.
However, industry experts predict she will not only be passed over for the position but will also leave the company when not given the CEO role. According to a recent CNBC report:
Disney has already said it plans to delay naming a new CEO until early 2026, so this prediction assumes the company will slightly move up the announcement. Walden, Disney’s co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, is the ultimate Hollywood insider who many view as the front-runner for the job. The board is taking its time vetting candidates after the handoff from Iger to Bob Chapek in 2020 did not go very well.
A second executive posited that NBCUniversal Entertainment and Studios chairman Donna Langley will be considered for the job as a challenge to Walden and other internal candidates.
Walden’s reputation as a Hollywood powerhouse has made her a top contender, but rumors suggest she may leave Disney if passed over for the CEO role. Such a departure would be a significant blow to the company, given her critical role in shaping Disney’s entertainment content.
The Other Contenders
While Walden is seen as a strong candidate, she’s not the only name in the mix. Alan Bergman, her co-chair at Disney Entertainment, is also in the running, along with Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro and ESPN head Jimmy Pitaro. Additionally, some industry insiders believe Disney might look outside its ranks, with NBCUniversal Entertainment Chairwoman Donna Langley emerging as a potential wildcard candidate.
Choosing the next CEO is no small task. The board’s cautious approach reflects the lessons learned from past transitions, particularly the rocky shift from Iger to Chapek. This time, they aim to get it right.
As the speculation continues, fans and industry experts have shared their opinions. Many see the possibility of Walden becoming Disney’s first female CEO as a groundbreaking moment for the company. Others argue that an outsider could bring fresh ideas and perspectives to reinvigorate Disney’s approach.
With so much at stake, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for Disney. Will the company stay the course with an insider, or will it embrace change with an external leader? As we await Disney’s decision, one thing is certain: the magic is far from over.
Who do you think should lead Disney into its next chapter? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
