Bob Iger's Disney CEO Replacement Now Selected as Award Winner

Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, is the latest powerhouse executive to be recognized for her profound influence on the global entertainment industry.

The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced on Monday that Walden will receive the prestigious 2025 International Emmy Founders Award at the 53rd International Emmy Awards gala in New York this November.

The award honors individuals who have made a transformative impact on television worldwide — and it’s sparking fresh rumors that Walden might be Disney’s chosen successor to CEO Bob Iger.

A Career of Hits and Industry Impact

Walden’s career reads like a “who’s who” of iconic television. Before her current role at Disney, she was CEO of Fox Television Group, where she famously propelled Fox Broadcasting from fourth place in ratings to number one.

Her TV credits are staggering: 24, Abbott Elementary, American Horror Story, The Simpsons, Grey’s Anatomy, Homeland, Modern Family, Only Murders in the Building, and many more.

Now, as co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, Walden oversees Disney’s vast global media empire — including Disney+, Hulu, and the company’s television and content businesses worldwide.

Under her watch, Disney+ has expanded to over 150 countries and 40 languages. Just last year, Disney shattered records by winning 60 Emmy Awards, a testament to Walden’s visionary leadership in original programming.

“Dana Walden’s contributions to entertainment are truly remarkable,” said Bruce L. Paisner, president and CEO of the International Academy. “Her leadership has played a pivotal role in influencing the global industry, and we’re proud to honor her.”

Walden’s Emmy Award: A Career Highlight — and More?

Walden called the honor “an extraordinary privilege,” attributing much of her success to the creative teams she collaborates with. But industry watchers are reading between the lines: this award, one previously given to luminaries like Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Shonda Rhimes, signals a growing spotlight on Walden’s leadership — just as Disney approaches a major transition.

Bob Iger, the legendary CEO behind Disney’s blockbuster acquisitions and streaming success, has announced his planned retirement in 2026. Since his return in late 2022, speculation has intensified about who will follow him. And many insiders believe Dana Walden is positioning herself as the logical heir apparent.

Why Dana Walden Could Be Disney’s Next CEO

Walden’s track record in entertainment is virtually unmatched at Disney. She’s a master at talent and content management — two pillars of Disney’s identity. From cultivating Emmy-winning shows to shepherding Disney’s streaming expansion, Walden has demonstrated strategic acumen and creative vision.

Moreover, her poised public appearances and calm leadership style contrast with the tumultuous tenure of Bob Chapek, Iger’s immediate predecessor. Walden’s ability to navigate complex creative ecosystems and foster partnerships has earned her wide respect inside and outside the company.

The Challenges Ahead: Theme Parks, Politics, and the Film Empire

Despite the mounting support, Walden’s path to the top won’t be without hurdles. Unlike Iger, whose background spans theme parks, film studios, and media networks, Walden’s expertise centers primarily on television and streaming.

She has comparatively limited operational experience with Disney’s global parks and resorts — a financial powerhouse that comprises a significant portion of Disney’s revenue.

Additionally, some within Disney have expressed concern about Walden’s political connections. Her ties to figures like Vice President Kamala Harris have raised questions about how Disney, traditionally cautious about overt political affiliations, might navigate potential backlash in a polarized environment.

Meanwhile, other internal contenders lurk. Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, wields substantial influence with his track record in managing Disney’s sprawling resorts and spearheading major expansions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment alongside Walden, is another heavyweight with a strong foothold in film franchises like Marvel and Pixar.

Each candidate brings unique strengths, making the board’s decision a complex balancing act between creative leadership, operational prowess, and corporate governance.

What Walden’s Morgan Stanley Speech Could Reveal

As the clock ticks toward Iger’s 2026 exit, Walden’s upcoming Morgan Stanley conference appearance on March 4 is highly anticipated. Industry insiders view this as more than just a routine presentation — it’s a chance for Walden to showcase her vision for Disney’s future amid rapidly shifting entertainment landscapes.

Will she highlight new content strategies? Streaming innovations? Digital advertising expansions? Or perhaps a plan to deepen Disney’s global footprint? Whatever she shares will be closely scrutinized for clues about how she would lead the company.

The Stakes Are High for Disney and Walden

Disney is at a crossroads. The media and entertainment industries are evolving faster than ever, with streaming wars, technological disruption, and changing consumer behaviors demanding nimble, forward-thinking leadership.

Bob Iger’s legacy is monumental, but the next leader must balance creative excellence with operational agility — and a keen eye on profitability and global growth.

Dana Walden’s Emmy Founders Award cements her status as a powerhouse in storytelling and content innovation. Whether that translates into the CEO’s chair remains to be seen, but the pieces are falling into place.

If chosen, Walden would become one of the most powerful women in entertainment history, tasked with steering Disney through its next chapter.

Dana Walden’s 2025 International Emmy Founders Award is more than just an accolade — it’s a symbol of her growing influence at Disney and in the wider industry. As the company prepares for a leadership transition, all eyes will be on Walden’s moves, her Morgan Stanley keynote, and how she shapes Disney’s future.

The stage is set for Dana Walden. Now, it’s time to watch the show unfold.