Credit: DisneyIt’s officially March, which means that The Walt Disney Company is less than three weeks away from stepping into the future. Here’s what to know about the change, when it takes effect, and how it could affect the movies, television shows, theme parks, merchandise, characters, and other magical offerings that you love.
The Walt Disney Company Makes a Change
On February 2, 2026, The Walt Disney Company announced that CEO Bob Iger’s second term was coming to a close. Iger returned to the Mouse House in November 2022 after the company ousted his replacement, Bob Chapek. Chapek managed Disney starting in 2020, but struggled to deliver profitability for Disney+ and implemented a quantity-over-quality content strategy that drew ire from fans and entertainment critics alike. Iger returned two years after leaving the company in Chapek’s hands.
Now, after nearly four more years as Chief Executive Officer, Bob Iger has once again named a successor: Josh D’Amaro. The current head of Disney Experiences (including theme parks and the Disney Cruise Line) will take over on March 18, 2026. Dana Walden will report to D’Amaro as President and Chief Creative Officer.
Iger will stay with The Walt Disney Company as a senior advisor and board member, assisting with the executive transition until December 31, 2026.
Disney Under D’Amaro
What will The Walt Disney Company look like under CEO Josh D’Amaro? Without a crystal ball, it’s hard to say. However, early rumors have suggested that D’Amaro has already gained influence over several aspects of the company, potentially forcing Walt Disney Imagineers to rethink the in-development Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom Park and make it bigger and bolder.
D’Amaro is gaining control over Disney at a better time than Chapek, with a profitable streaming service and no global pandemic looming overhead. The company has had several record-breaking films over the last few years, including Lilo & Stitch (2025) and Zootopia 2 (2025).
For his part, D’Amaro hasn’t said much about how he plans to lead the century-old media giant. But one thing’s for sure: When he takes over in 17 days, he’ll have no shortage of opinions from millions of fans who would kill for just one hour in his position.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month.
Disney’s next chapter begins this month. pic.twitter.com/WNV4zEypGd
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) March 1, 2026
What did you think when Bob Iger named Josh D’Amaro as the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company? Inside the Magic would love to hear from you in the comments!