As Bob Iger’s tenure at the helm of The Walt Disney Company draws closer to its end in 2026, all eyes are on the company’s next potential leader. Dana Walden, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, has recently been slated to speak at the highly anticipated Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference. This move has only deepened speculation that Walden, who has long been considered a leading contender for the coveted position of Disney CEO, could be the one to carry forward Iger’s legacy when his second term comes to an end.
A Closer Look at Iger’s Legacy and the Search for His Successor
Iger’s return to Disney in 2022 after a brief retirement to right the ship during a turbulent period of leadership under Bob Chapek has been widely praised. Known for his bold acquisitions and forward-thinking leadership, Iger’s imprint on the company is undeniable. During his first run as CEO, Iger transformed Disney into a global media powerhouse, orchestrating the acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox. Under his stewardship, Disney also made a major foray into the streaming world with the launch of Disney+, now one of the biggest players in the market.
However, despite these accomplishments, the question of Iger’s successor has loomed large. His announced departure in 2026 means that Disney must soon find someone who can navigate an ever-changing entertainment landscape while maintaining the values and innovation that Iger championed.
The Dana Walden Factor: A Rising Star at Disney
Dana Walden, who oversees Disney’s television content and has helped shape the company’s strategy in the industry’s most competitive space, is often mentioned as a leading candidate to follow Iger. Walden’s calm leadership style and sharp focus on creative production make her one of the most talked-about figures in the running for the CEO position.
Her experience in managing some of the most recognizable names in television, such as ABC, FX Networks, and 20th Television, has given her an impressive track record of successful leadership. Under her watch, Disney’s television division has seen a string of Emmy-winning successes, further solidifying Walden’s position as one of the entertainment industry’s top executives. Still, the question remains whether her expertise in television and creative production can translate to overseeing the vast array of Disney’s other business operations, including theme parks, film, and streaming.
A Potential Political Hitch for Walden?
Walden’s connections to politics, particularly her friendship with Vice President Kamala Harris, could prove to be a potential obstacle. Disney, known for its strict policy of remaining politically neutral, may find itself walking a fine line should Walden’s ties to politics become more pronounced. While Walden’s leadership skills are widely acknowledged, Disney may hesitate to put someone in the CEO role with potential political connections, as it could risk alienating some parts of the company’s diverse and global audience.
However, many within the entertainment industry see Walden’s calm demeanor and business acumen as ideal traits for leading Disney through an increasingly competitive and volatile media landscape. Her creative sensibility and ability to manage top talent make her a logical choice for many insiders who believe she could successfully continue Iger’s transformative leadership.
Josh D’Amaro: An Alternative Path for Disney
While Walden’s name is widely mentioned as a possible successor, there is another prominent figure within Disney who could also be in the running: Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products. D’Amaro has been a key player in the expansion of Disney’s global park business, overseeing major projects such as the creation of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the development of Disney’s international resorts. His leadership in the parks sector has earned him a reputation as one of Disney’s most effective operational leaders.
Though D’Amaro’s focus on parks may have limited his exposure to Disney’s broader corporate operations, his experience in managing one of the company’s largest and most profitable divisions could make him a strong contender for the top job. D’Amaro’s creative leadership within Disney’s parks and resorts, combined with his knowledge of the company’s massive consumer-facing operations, could give him the tools to lead Disney in the next chapter of its journey.
The Other Contenders: Names to Keep an Eye On
Beyond Walden and D’Amaro, other names continue to surface in the discussion about Disney’s future leadership. Alan Bergman, Walden’s co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, has garnered attention for his role in revitalizing Disney’s film division, which includes managing iconic brands like Marvel, Pixar, and Lucasfilm. Bergman’s success with these properties, combined with his operational expertise, makes him an intriguing possibility to lead Disney in the future.
Despite his success at ESPN, Chairman Jimmy Pitaro has downplayed any aspirations for the top role, but some remain curious about his potential candidacy. Pitaro’s oversight of Disney’s sports business could position him as a strong figure in Disney’s global strategy, although his background in sports rather than entertainment might be seen as a limiting factor.
CFO Hugh Johnston, though highly regarded by Disney’s employees and industry insiders, is generally not considered a top contender for the CEO role, given his financial rather than creative background.
The Upcoming Morgan Stanley Conference: What Does Walden’s Speech Mean for Disney’s Future?
As Walden prepares to take center stage at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference, her remarks will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized. This conference has traditionally been a platform for key Disney leaders, including Iger, to discuss the company’s future direction. With Walden’s growing visibility in the media, her participation in this event is seen as a subtle signal that Disney may be preparing to position her as the next leader.
As the 2026 deadline looms, Disney faces a critical moment in its leadership transition. Walden’s potential role in shaping the company’s future, both in terms of creative direction and corporate governance, remains to be seen. But as Iger’s successor inches closer to becoming a reality, the industry will no doubt be watching closely to see how Walden—and other top Disney executives—navigate the shifting tides of global media and entertainment.
