Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Josh D’Amaro Takes Over as Disney CEO, Launches ‘One Disney’ Push

The handoff pairs a parks-rooted chief with a consolidated creative structure under Dana Walden to drive a unified One Disney strategy.

Overview

  • D’Amaro formally became CEO at Disney’s March 18 shareholder meeting, as Bob Iger shifted to a senior advisor role and will remain on the board through year-end 2026.
  • In first-day remarks, D’Amaro outlined a One Disney framework centered on intellectual property, fans and storytelling, with Disney+ set to evolve into the company’s digital centerpiece.
  • Disney created a new President and Chief Creative Officer role for Dana Walden, who will oversee film, streaming, television and games, while Debra O’Connell was named chair of Disney Entertainment Television.
  • Joe Earley and Adam Smith were appointed co-presidents of Direct-to-Consumer, taking charge of the strategy and financial performance of Disney+ and Hulu within a more unified structure.
  • Financial continuity was underscored by CFO Hugh Johnston’s contract extension to Jan. 31, 2029 and reiterated guidance for double-digit EPS growth in 2026 and 2027, as the parks-led Experiences unit—reported as 57% of last year’s profit—shapes D’Amaro’s mandate and early fan reactions focus on pricing and sequel-heavy content.