Josh D’Amaro assumes control of The Walt Disney Company on March 18, fundamentally reshaping leadership at the entertainment empire after Bob Iger’s nearly four-year return as CEO.
D’Amaro, current head of Disney Experiences overseeing theme parks and Disney Cruise Line, becomes only the second CEO successor in Disney’s modern era. Dana Walden will serve as President and Chief Creative Officer under D’Amaro’s leadership.
Iger will transition to senior advisor and board member, remaining through December 31, 2026, to assist the executive handoff.
Iger’s Second Retirement
Disney announced the succession on February 2, 2026, ending Iger’s second stint as CEO. Iger returned in November 2022 after Disney ousted Bob Chapek, who took over in 2020 but failed to make Disney+ profitable while pursuing a quantity-over-quality content strategy that angered fans and critics.
Iger returned in an overnight takeover two years after leaving Disney to Chapek. After nearly four additional years running the company, Iger has now selected his replacement for the second time.
A Better Starting Position
D’Amaro inherits a stronger Disney than Chapek received. Disney+ is profitable, no pandemic threatens operations, and recent films like Lilo & Stitch (2025) and Zootopia 2 (2025) shattered box office records.
Rumors suggest D’Amaro already wields significant influence, reportedly pushing Imagineers to expand the in-development Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom Park beyond original plans.
An Uncertain Future
D’Amaro hasn’t publicly outlined his strategy for leading the century-old company. Inevitably, millions of passionate Disney fans will scrutinize every decision once he takes control in less than three weeks.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month. pic.twitter.com/WNV4zEypGd
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) March 1, 2026
Unlike Chapek, D’Amaro enters the role with strong fan approval, earned through his leadership of Disney Experiences and his visible presence at parks and D23 events. His theme park background contrasts with Iger’s broader media executive experience, potentially signaling different priorities.
How D’Amaro reshapes Disney’s film production, streaming strategy, theme park investments, and creative direction will emerge in the coming months as he establishes leadership independent from Iger’s decades-long control over the company’s direction and culture.
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