Bob Iger Reportedly Preparing to Step Down as Disney CEO Before Contract Ends

Bob Iger is reportedly planning to leave the Walt Disney Company before his CEO contract officially expires at the end of the year.

According to a report from the Wall Street Journal on Friday, Iger has told associates that he intends to step down as CEO and “pull back from daily management” prior to the end of his contract, December 31, 2026. Sources told the Journal that Iger has shared with people close to him that he is ready to move on from the demands of leading the company.

Disney’s board of directors has indicated it expects to name Iger’s successor in early 2026. The board is scheduled to meet next week at Disney’s headquarters in Burbank, CA, where it is expected to vote on who will become the company’s next CEO.

“The appointment of the next CEO will be determined by the full Board, and we currently expect to announce the appointment of the Company’s next CEO in early 2026,” said Disney Chairman James Gorman in the company’s 2026 proxy filing released last week.

The company has not identified which executives are being considered, but analysts have identified two leading candidates for the role: Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, who oversees the company’s theme parks, cruises, and consumer products; and Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, responsible for Disney’s global streaming business.

Disney has said that “each internal candidate is going through a rigorous preparation process, including mentorship from Mr. Iger, external coaching and engagement with all Directors.”

Iger first became Disney’s CEO in 2005, succeeding Michael Eisner, and initially led the company for 15 years before stepping down in 2020 in favor of Bob Chapek. However, after Chapek was ousted by the board in November 2022, Iger returned to the role.

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