In the high-stakes proxy battle between Disney and activist investors led by Nelson Peltz, the main point of contention was the process to find a successor to long-time CEO Bob Iger. Despite Iger’s recent victory over Peltz, the focus has now shifted to the unresolved question of who will take the reins after Iger’s contract ends in 2026.
The board of Disney recently announced that they are reviewing both internal and external candidates with the assistance of a reputable search firm. Among the internal candidates that have emerged as front-runners are Josh D’Amaro, Alan Bergman, Jimmy Pitaro, and Dana Walden.
With Iger’s history of extending his contract multiple times before stepping aside, investors are closely monitoring the succession planning process at Disney. The company’s previous struggles with succession planning have raised concerns among shareholders, who are eager to see a clear and effective process in place.
As speculation continues about Iger’s departure in 2026, experts like David Larcker from Stanford’s Corporate Governance Research Initiative caution that internal “bake-off” processes can be problematic and lead to internal political alliances. The board is keen to avoid any drama surrounding the succession process.
Among the internal candidates, Dana Walden stands out as a relative newcomer to Disney but with a proven track record at Fox. She has already made significant strides in revitalizing Disney’s TV businesses and is focused on transitioning to a streaming-first model.
Alan Bergman, on the other hand, has been a quiet but powerful force at Disney, overseeing the successful movie studios portfolio. Despite recent challenges in the film division, Bergman’s leadership is highly respected within the industry.
Jimmy Pitaro, as chair of ESPN, is preparing to launch the sports network as a full streaming service, drawing on his background in digital media. The upcoming launch is a crucial moment for ESPN and Disney as they navigate the shifting media landscape.
Lastly, Josh D’Amaro has been credited with leading a successful rebound of Disney’s theme parks following the pandemic shutdowns. His focus on innovation and technology has been key to the parks’ resurgence.
As these four internal candidates vie for the top spot at Disney, their performance in addressing the company’s challenges will play a significant role in determining who ultimately succeeds Bob Iger as CEO of the entertainment giant.