NEED TO KNOW
- Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger is reportedly planning to step down from his position in 2026, according to The Wall Street Journal
- Iger previously served as Disney’s CEO from 2005 to 2020, and he returned to the role in November 2022 after Bob Chapek’s short run as CEO
- A spokesperson for Disney did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment
Bob Iger, the executive who served as CEO of the Walt Disney Company from 2005 to 2020 and returned to the role in November 2022, is reportedly planning to step down this year.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, Jan. 30, that Iger, 74, has told people in his circle that he plans to “pull back from daily management” and step down as CEO before the end of his contract, which is Dec. 31, 2026, citing anonymous sources.
Citing anonymous sources, WSJ reported that Iger has told “people close to him that he is ready to move on from the grind of being CEO.”
A spokesperson for Disney did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
Back in 2024, Disney said it anticipated announcing a new CEO to replace Iger by early 2026, Variety reported at the time.
Noam Galai/Getty
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Iger was the company’s seventh CEO. He initially took over the position after Michael Eisner’s retirement in 2005.
When Iger first stepped down in February 2020 he described the moment as “the optimal time to transition to a new CEO.” Iger remained as the company’s chairman of the board through 2021, when his contract with Disney ended.
Bob Chapek, who previously worked as Disney’s chairman of its amusement parks, succeeded Iger. However, Disney announced on Nov. 21, 2022, that Chapek, 66, had stepped away and ushered Iger back in. When Iger returned to the position, the company noted that he only agreed to be CEO for two additional years.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty
“I am extremely optimistic for the future of this great company and thrilled to be asked by the Board to return as its CEO,” Iger said in a 2022 statement. “Disney and its incomparable brands and franchises hold a special place in the hearts of so many people around the globe — most especially in the hearts of our employees, whose dedication to this company and its mission is an inspiration.”
“I am deeply honored to be asked to again lead this remarkable team, with a clear mission focused on creative excellence to inspire generations through unrivaled, bold storytelling,” he added at the time.
Read the full article here
