Bob Iger Plans to Leave Disney Early: Who Will Be the Next CEO?. Bob Iger is reportedly ready to step down as Disney’s CEO before his contract ends in 2026. After coming out of retirement to fix the company’s direction, Iger has told friends he is tired of the corporate grind and wants to hand over the keys sooner than expected.
The Disney board is meeting next week to discuss his replacement, with internal favorites Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden at the top of the list. This early exit marks a major shift for the entertainment giant as it tries to find a leader who can finally stick.
Walt Disney Co. Chief Executive Bob Iger has reportedly signaled his intention to step down from the top job earlier than planned, potentially ending his second stint at the helm before his contract expires in December 2026.
According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, Iger has told close associates he is ready to move on from the daily “grind” of corporate management. The Disney board of directors is expected to meet next week at the company’s Burbank headquarters, where a vote on a formal successor is anticipated.
The search for Iger’s replacement has reportedly focused on two internal frontrunners, which we have covered recently, looking at a possible Co-CEO:
- Josh D’Amaro: Chairman of Disney Experiences (Parks, Consumer Products, and Video Games).
- Dana Walden: Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment (Streaming and Television).
While the board, led by former Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman, has kept the process strictly confidential, current speculation favors D’Amaro. Prediction markets currently place his chances of being named the next CEO significantly higher than Walden’s.
Sources say Iger is eager to provide his successor with a “fresh start.” He reportedly feels that remaining until the final day of his contract—December 31, 2026—would hinder the new leader’s ability to establish authority.
The Journal also noted that internal friction influenced Iger’s desire to step back. Specifically, he was reportedly frustrated by recent conflicts at the ABC network, including a controversial brief suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
Iger, 74, has expressed a desire to focus on personal projects. Working with his wife, Willow Bay, on Angel City FC, the women’s soccer team, which they acquired in 2024. Iger is expected to remain in a mentoring role for several months after a successor is named to ensure a smoother transition than the one seen with his previous successor, Bob Chapek
The news comes as Disney continues to navigate a complex media landscape defined by the transition to streaming and traditional television’s decline. Disney shares remained relatively steady following the report, as investors have long anticipated a formal succession plan to stabilize the company’s long-term outlook. Disney’s earnings report is due early next week.
