Disney Leadership Shift: Gorman as Chairman in 2025

In a significant leadership announcement today, Disney confirmed that James Gorman, former CEO of Morgan Stanley, will assume the position of chairman in 2025. This move comes amid a crucial period for Disney as the company directly addresses its succession planning – a topic that has surfaced frequently in discussions surrounding the future of the organization, especially in light of Bob Iger's tenure. Gorman, who has been spearheading this succession strategy since August, brings a strong track record free from controversies that plagued previous Disney leadership transitions. His strategic ascent is aimed at addressing the pressing question: Who will replace Bob Iger? While Disney hasn't disclosed any internal or external candidates publicly, there is speculation surrounding the four key executives currently reporting directly to Iger – specifically those overseeing Parks, TV, Movies, and ESPN. This secrecy has kept the rumor mill running as industry insiders eagerly await the upcoming earnings report. Although Disney faced challenges in film production, recent successes, particularly at the Emmy Awards and in television performance, have positioned it slightly better, highlighting the mixed reviews on its Parks division and the ongoing transformation of ESPN toward a direct-to-consumer model. With these changes, Disney is navigating an intriguing yet uncertain landscape, and Gorman's arrival at the helm signals a pivotal moment in shaping the company's future.