In November 2022, The Walt Disney Company dropped a bombshell as they announced Bob Chapek, 62, would be stepping down as CEO of the company, while Robert A. Iger, 71, would return to run the company, effective immediately.
“We thank Bob Chapek for his service,” Susan Arnold, the board chair, said in a statement. “The board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an increasingly complex period of industry transformation Bob Iger is uniquely situated to lead the company through this pivotal period.”
Mr. Iger previously served as Disney’s CEO from 2005 to 2020 and is considered one of the best leaders in Hollywood history, especially amongst the Disney community. He agreed to a two-year contract.
Who Will Take Over As Disney CEO?
Since Bob Iger only agreed to a two-year contract, many are wondering who will take his place once the time comes. Many Disney fans are hoping for Josh D’Amaro, Chairperson of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, to take over, however, the latest reports are hinting at someone else.
Adam Silver, Commissioner of the National Basketball Association, is reportedly a top candidate to replace Mr. Iger as the chief executive officer for the Walt Disney Company when his contract is up, according to FOX.
Reports have also stated that Dana Walden, Disney’s entertainment co-chair and Kevin Mayer, a former Disney executive and CEO of TikTok are in talks of replacing Bob Iger.
It is important to state that those wishing for Josh D’Amaro do still have hope as Disney insiders have told Fox Business that other possible internal contenders are still on the table, including Alan Bergman, the other co-chair of entertainment, and Josh D’Amaro.
At this time, there is no confirmation as to who will take over as CEO once Bob Iger‘s contract ends, but these are the top names in the mix.
Bob Iger Thrilled To Be Back As Disney CEO
Before the news broke that Bob Iger would be returning as CEO, he sent out an email to Disney employees, announcing his return to the company.
“It is with an incredible sense of gratitude and humility -and, I must admit, a bit of amazement -that I write to you this evening with the news that I am returning to The Walt Disney Company as Chief Executive Officer,” Iger began his email by saying.
The 71-year-old continued to highlight some of the profits and growth across the company, explaining, “When I look at the creative success of our teams across our Studios, Disney General Entertainment, ESPN and International, the rapid growth of our streaming services, the phenomenal reimagining and rebound of our Parks, the continued great work of ABC News, and so many other achievements across our businesses, I am in awe of your accomplishments and I am excited to embark with you on many new endeavors.”
“I know this company has asked so much of you during the past three years, and these times certainly remain quite challenging, but as you have heard me say before, I am an optimist, and if I learned one thing from my years at Disney, it is that even in the face of uncertainty -perhaps especially in the face of uncertainty – our employees and Cast Members achieve the impossible,” Iger continued in his email to Disney employees.
“Disney holds a special place in the hearts of people around the globe thanks to you, and your dedication to this company and its mission to bring joy to people through great storytelling is an inspiration to me every single day,” he concluded.
