The Walt Disney Company enters a new era in 17 days when Josh D'Amaro becomes CEO on March 18, replacing Bob Iger and taking control of the century-old entertainment giant.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month. pic.twitter.com/WNV4zEypGd
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) March 1, 2026
D'Amaro currently leads Disney Experiences, overseeing the company's theme parks and Disney Cruise Line. Dana Walden will serve as President and Chief Creative Officer, reporting to D'Amaro.
Iger remains with Disney as senior advisor and board member through December 31, 2026, assisting with the executive transition.
Iger's Second Exit
Disney announced D'Amaro's promotion on February 2, 2026, marking the end of Iger's second term as CEO. Iger returned to Disney in November 2022 after the company removed Bob Chapek, who led from 2020 but struggled with Disney+ profitability and implemented a quantity-over-quality content strategy that alienated fans and critics.
Iger's return came two years after initially leaving Disney in Chapek's hands. After nearly four more years as CEO, Iger has now named his successor for the second time.
What D'Amaro Inherits
D'Amaro takes control under better circumstances than Chapek faced. Disney+ is profitable, no global pandemic threatens operations, and recent films, including Lilo & Stitch (2025) and Zootopia 2 (2025), broke box-office records.
Insider rumors suggest D'Amaro already influences company decisions, potentially pushing Walt Disney Imagineers to expand and enhance the in-development Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom Park.
Unclear Direction Under D'Amaro
D'Amaro hasn't publicly detailed his leadership plans for the media giant. With millions of passionate Disney fans scrutinizing every decision, D'Amaro will face no shortage of opinions when he assumes control on March 18.
The transition marks only the second CEO succession in Disney's modern era, following Chapek's brief tenure. Unlike Chapek, D'Amaro enjoys strong fan support for his leadership of Disney Experiences and for his public appearances at parks and D23 events.
What changes D'Amaro brings to Disney's film studios, streaming strategy, theme parks, and creative direction will become clear in the coming months as he establishes his vision distinct from Iger's decades-long influence over the company.
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