A The Walt Disney Company executive who revolutionized television production across Latin America is walking away from his role next month. Leo Aranguibel will abandon his position on February 22, 2026, ending a career spanning over two decades at the entertainment corporation, Variety exclusively confirms.
Disney Executive Announces February Departure
Aranguibel has served as vice president and head of production, operations, and strategy at The Walt Disney Company Latin America since joining the House of Mouse in 2005. His February 22 exit marks the conclusion of 20-plus years with Disney, during which his responsibilities expanded beyond Latin America to include EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa) and the U.S. Hispanic market for nearly a decade.
The executive revealed he’s been contemplating departure for an extended period, initially consulting Disney’s HR department about leaving almost two years ago. Recent organizational restructuring accelerated his timeline.
“This is something I have been considering for quite a while. In fact, it was almost two years ago when I first consulted our HR Head about it, and recent structure adjustments in our organization have sped this step up,” Aranguibel explained. “I’ve been with Disney for 20-plus years, not only in Latin America, but also covering EMEA and the U.S. Hispanic market as well for almost a decade, so it’s evident that it’s time for a change.”
Aranguibel told Variety he’s stepping away to take a break and pursue unspecified opportunities, though he’s uncertain about launching significant business ventures.
“I’m not sure if this is my last stop, but as of today, I’m inclined to believe it is,” he said. “Of course, I will remain involved in several creative initiatives, individually as well as alongside family, colleagues and friends. Still, I’m a never-say-never type of guy.”
The Walt Disney Company hasn’t identified who will replace Aranguibel upon his departure.
The Term That Changed the Television Industry
Aranguibel’s most significant industry contribution came through coining “Superseries”—his term for local adaptations of popular international shows. The word became standard industry terminology, demonstrating his influence beyond Disney‘s walls.
His production credits include Latin American adaptations of Desperate Housewives and Grey’s Anatomy. He also helmed biographical series Hasta que te conoci, Selena’s Secret, and Monzon: A Knockout Blow. For Disney specifically, Aranguibel produced Santa Evita and The Boss.
“I feel extremely proud of my career as a whole, and of having been part of teams that led the pace and changes in our region for more than 15 years in a row, with historical achievements,” Aranguibel told Variety. “As we Venezuelans say, ‘Nadie nos puede quitar lo bailado’ – which means, ‘Nobody can take what we have danced away from us.'”
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