Bob Iger may be wrapping up his stint as CEO of Disney sooner than anticipated, as reports suggest he is considering stepping down from his role before his contract officially ends on December 31, 2026. According to the Wall Street Journal, Iger has communicated to his associates that he is ready to pull back from day-to-day management, driven by frustrations over recent conflicts at ABC, including a notable incident in September involving the suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
Disney’s board is actively planning for Iger’s succession, with expectations to announce his replacement in early 2026. They are set to meet next week at the Burbank headquarters to discuss potential candidates. Disney Chairman James Gorman has indicated in a proxy statement that the board will be responsible for the appointment, and the meticulous selection process is already underway, with mentorship from Iger being provided to internal candidates.
Current frontrunners for Iger’s position include Josh D’Amaro, who oversees Disney Experiences, and Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment. Analysts note that online betting markets are leaning heavily in favor of D’Amaro as the next CEO.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Iger expressed a desire to allocate more personal time to interests such as sailing on his newly acquired superyacht, the Aquarius, while also aiming to support his wife, Willow Bay, in her role at USC’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Furthermore, he is involved with Angel City FC, a women’s soccer team, reflecting a dedication to diverse ventures beyond Disney.
After returning to the helm in November 2022, following the ousting of Bob Chapek, Iger’s compensation in 2025 reached $45.8 million, which represents an 11.5% increase from the previous year. His earnings package included substantial stock awards and bonuses, emphasizing his high-profile status within the company.
As Iger approaches re-election to Disney’s board in 2026, he will bring his extensive knowledge of the company and its creative ventures, further shaping the future of Disney during this transitional phase. The upcoming meetings and decisions present a pivotal moment, not only for Iger but for the entire Disney organization as it navigates through this significant leadership change. The optimism surrounding Iger’s potential successors indicates a robust future for Disney, poised to continue its legacy in the entertainment industry.