While the competition to succeed Logan Roy may have garnered more attention, the race to replace Bob Iger as the next Disney CEO is underway. ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro, once considered a contender, has reportedly expressed his disinterest in the role. According to Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw, there are various internal candidates in play, including Disney’s Chairperson of Parks and Resorts, Josh D’Amaro, and Co-Chair of Disney Entertainment, Dana Walden, who have been given high-profile roles at recent events to bolster their public profiles.
Though Walden, fellow Co-Chair Alan Bergman, D’Amaro, and Pitaro have been highlighted as the main internal candidates, Pitaro has informed the Disney board of his lack of interest in the position.
They all possess different backgrounds that give the board a range of options without looking outside. It’s hard for any outsider to understand Disney’s distinct culture and its hold on consumers. And there isn’t much time for an outsider to learn if Iger is really leaving at the end of next year.
Pitaro has communicated to both friends and the board that he’s not interested in the role. While Bergman is Walden’s equal in the organizational structure, he has not been viewed as a strong rival for the top job. This brings the focus back to D’Amaro and Walden.
That doesn’t mean the job is certain to go to an internal candidate. When Disney stated that a new CEO would be announced in early 2026, many in Hollywood interpreted this as the company taking time to consider external options.
Although few positions in American business are as prestigious as that of Disney CEO, Pitaro seems committed to leading ESPN during a crucial period in its history. He has been at the forefront of ESPN’s upcoming DTC launch, navigating a failed partnership with Fox and WBD through Venu Sports, and exploring a possible equity deal with the NFL. He may feel that staying at ESPN is crucial to ensure the success of these projects and to avoid adding to the existing uncertainties.
Alternatively, Pitaro might have observed the difficulties faced by Bob Chapek, Iger’s selected successor, who experienced turmoil during his tenure after Iger’s retirement announcement in 2020. Iger’s continued involvement led to significant challenges, resulting in Chapek’s firing by the Disney board in 2022 and Iger’s reinstatement. Given this history, Pitaro’s decision may reflect a preference for caution.
Best of luck to the next Disney CEO, but it seems unlikely that it will be Jimmy Pitaro.
