According to a recent report from the Wall Street Journal, Disney is broadening its search for a new CEO, extending beyond the four internal candidates previously thought to be in contention. Although there was speculation that Disney might look outside the company, it was largely believed that the final decision would come from the internal pool. However, a significant announcement on October 21st shifted the timeline and strategy, giving Disney more time to identify the right successor.
The announcement revealed that James P. Gorman, previously the chair of Disney’s Succession Planning Committee, would step into the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors following Mark Parker’s departure. Gorman’s larger role now places him at the center of the CEO selection process. In a key statement, Gorman confirmed that Disney had pushed back the planned announcement of a new CEO to “early 2026,” citing the need for a smooth transition ahead of Bob Iger’s contract expiration in December 2026.
The Board's Succession Planning Committee, chaired by Gorman, includes directors Mary T. Barra, Calvin R. McDonald, and Parker (until his departure). The committee has reportedly been considering external candidates as part of its broader search, with Wall Street Journal sources noting that Andrew Wilson, CEO of Electronic Arts, has emerged as a potential contender. As Disney continues to expand its digital footprint within its Experiences division, a leader with a strong tech background would be highly valuable. Disney is working with the executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles to help review and identify additional external candidates, with at least two other names being considered, though they have not been disclosed.
In a separate but related development, the WSJ report also revealed that current Disney CEO Bob Iger had reached out to Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos to inquire about the effectiveness of Netflix’s dual-CEO structure. Iger reportedly asked Sarandos whether such an arrangement might be a good fit for Disney, though it remains unclear if this conversation could influence Disney’s leadership structure moving forward.
With the decision still some years away, all eyes will be on Disney as the company navigates the complexities of succession planning. The new CEO is expected to be named sometime in early 2026.
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