Bob Iger (Shutterstock photo)
Disney CEO Bob Iger Reportedly Set to Retire Before Year Ends
January 30, 2026
The Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger is reportedly set to retire before the end of this year, prior to his employment contract expiration on Dec. 31.
The 74-year-old executive first became CEO of Disney in 2005, becoming executive chairman in 2020 before retiring for the first time on Dec. 31, 2021. He returned as CEO on Nov. 20, 2022, following the dismissal of successor Bob Chapek.
Iger, according to the Wall Street Journal, has told associates he intends to step down and reduce daily involvement before the year’s end, wanting to give his successor a “fresh start.”
Neither Disney nor Iger has publicly commented on the media reports, but the move aligns with prior signals of an “early 2026” successor reveal. If confirmed, this would end Iger’s second stint after overseeing significant major shifts in the industry, including the rise of direct-to-consumer streaming.
The Disney board is reportedly set to meet in February to vote on a successor. Iger may stay on for several months after the announcement to mentor the new CEO and could retain a board or advisory role.
The frontrunner is considered Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences (parks, cruises, consumer products), with another possible successor being Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment with a TV/streaming focus.
Disney reports quarterly fiscal results Feb. 2.
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