Disney’s Urgent Hunt for Bob Iger’s Successor: Six Possible Paths to Leadership
With Bob Iger’s tenure at Disney slated to end in 2026, the company has launched a rigorous search for its next CEO under the leadership of incoming Chairman James Gorman. Known for his seamless succession planning at Morgan Stanley, Gorman has a clear mandate: prevent another leadership debacle like Bob Chapek’s brief and turbulent tenure. As Gorman takes charge, Disney explores six potential strategies to find Iger’s successor.
- More Time for Internal Candidates: 5-1 Odds
The 2026 target for Iger’s departure suggests Disney’s board isn’t entirely convinced that any of the internal candidates—Dana Walden, Josh D’Amaro, Jimmy Pitaro, or Alan Bergman—are fully ready for the top job. Disney may use this time to rotate key executives, broadening their experience across various divisions, much like the roleswap between Tom Staggs and Jay Rasulo a decade ago. This approach could reveal who can handle Disney’s complex operations and bridge any gaps in their current skill sets.
- Promoting an Internal Candidate: 8-1 Odds
The extra time could also give one internal leader the chance to shine. With 2025 critical for Disney’s profitability goals, from stabilizing the streaming sector to revitalizing its parks, an internal candidate who proves themselves in these areas could rise to the top. “What does the next CEO of Disney actually need to be good at?” asks Wharton professor Henning Piezunka, noting that the role may prioritize skills in areas like streaming or parks.
- Bringing in an Outsider: 10-1 Odds
While Disney’s culture often favors insiders, the board hasn’t ruled out an external hire. Potential options like NBA commissioner Adam Silver or NBCUniversal’s Donna Langley have been mentioned. However, leading Disney may require an insider’s touch, as Iger was famously celebrated by fans at the D23 conference this year. Given Disney’s unique place in entertainment, the board must carefully weigh the risks of an outsider unfamiliar with Disney’s distinctive environment.
- The Co-CEO Model: 25-1 Odds
Following Netflix’s example, Disney could consider appointing two CEOs, with each focusing on different areas. While this might work, Piezunka suggests that Disney’s integrated model makes it unlikely. For example, a duo might struggle with the unity Disney has traditionally sought, especially when handling its vast network of divisions. Still, it’s a possibility if the board wants to diversify the expertise at the top.
- Extending Iger’s Tenure: 200-1 Odds
Although Iger’s contract has been extended multiple times, it seems unlikely he’ll stay on. Gorman’s appointment signals the board’s desire for a decisive transition, which Piezunka believes Gorman will want to control directly. Iger, for his part, has stated he “definitely” intends to step down in 2026, putting the onus on Gorman to secure a worthy successor.
- A Radical Move—Sell or Merge Disney: 500-1 Odds
While unlikely, Disney could consider a merger if no suitable candidate emerges. In his autobiography, Iger reflected that if Steve Jobs had been alive, Apple and Disney might have discussed a partnership. Yet, with big tech as one of the few sectors that could afford Disney, such a scenario remains improbable.
Disney faces a delicate balancing act: selecting a leader who can handle both its traditional strengths and evolving challenges. With Gorman’s experience and a board deeply invested in the decision, Disney hopes to avoid past missteps and secure a smooth transition for one of the most iconic roles in media.
SOURCE The Hollywood Reporter
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With Bob Iger’s tenure at Disney slated to end in 2026, the company has launched a rigorous search for its next CEO under the leadership of incoming Chairman James Gorman. Known for his seamless succession planning at Morgan Stanley, Gorman has a clear mandate: prevent another leadership debacle like Bob Chapek’s brief and turbulent tenure. As Gorman takes charge, Disney explores six potential strategies to find Iger’s successor.
- More Time for Internal Candidates: 5-1 Odds
The 2026 target for Iger’s departure suggests Disney’s board isn’t entirely convinced that any of the internal candidates—Dana Walden, Josh D’Amaro, Jimmy Pitaro, or Alan Bergman—are fully ready for the top job. Disney may use this time to rotate key executives, broadening their experience across various divisions, much like the roleswap between Tom Staggs and Jay Rasulo a decade ago. This approach could reveal who can handle Disney’s complex operations and bridge any gaps in their current skill sets.
- Promoting an Internal Candidate: 8-1 Odds
The extra time could also give one internal leader the chance to shine. With 2025 critical for Disney’s profitability goals, from stabilizing the streaming sector to revitalizing its parks, an internal candidate who proves themselves in these areas could rise to the top. “What does the next CEO of Disney actually need to be good at?” asks Wharton professor Henning Piezunka, noting that the role may prioritize skills in areas like streaming or parks.
- Bringing in an Outsider: 10-1 Odds
While Disney’s culture often favors insiders, the board hasn’t ruled out an external hire. Potential options like NBA commissioner Adam Silver or NBCUniversal’s Donna Langley have been mentioned. However, leading Disney may require an insider’s touch, as Iger was famously celebrated by fans at the D23 conference this year. Given Disney’s unique place in entertainment, the board must carefully weigh the risks of an outsider unfamiliar with Disney’s distinctive environment.
- The Co-CEO Model: 25-1 Odds
Following Netflix’s example, Disney could consider appointing two CEOs, with each focusing on different areas. While this might work, Piezunka suggests that Disney’s integrated model makes it unlikely. For example, a duo might struggle with the unity Disney has traditionally sought, especially when handling its vast network of divisions. Still, it’s a possibility if the board wants to diversify the expertise at the top.
- Extending Iger’s Tenure: 200-1 Odds
Although Iger’s contract has been extended multiple times, it seems unlikely he’ll stay on. Gorman’s appointment signals the board’s desire for a decisive transition, which Piezunka believes Gorman will want to control directly. Iger, for his part, has stated he “definitely” intends to step down in 2026, putting the onus on Gorman to secure a worthy successor.
- A Radical Move—Sell or Merge Disney: 500-1 Odds
While unlikely, Disney could consider a merger if no suitable candidate emerges. In his autobiography, Iger reflected that if Steve Jobs had been alive, Apple and Disney might have discussed a partnership. Yet, with big tech as one of the few sectors that could afford Disney, such a scenario remains improbable.
Disney faces a delicate balancing act: selecting a leader who can handle both its traditional strengths and evolving challenges. With Gorman’s experience and a board deeply invested in the decision, Disney hopes to avoid past missteps and secure a smooth transition for one of the most iconic roles in media.
SOURCE The Hollywood Reporter
Share:
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