The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger is considering an early exit from his role. According to The Wall Street Journal, Iger has hinted to close associates that he is ready to leave the top job before his contract expires on 31 December 2026.
Sources say the media mogul has spoken of fatigue from the CEO role and frustration with internal conflicts, including the incident involving ABC host Jimmy Kimmel in September. Iger is said to be planning not only to step down as CEO but also to reduce his involvement in the company’s day-to-day management. Disney’s board of directors had previously confirmed plans to name Iger’s successor “in early 2026”.
A board meeting is scheduled for next week at the company’s Burbank headquarters, where a vote on the next chief executive may take place. “The appointment of the next CEO will be determined by the full board of directors,” said board chairman James Gorman. He also noted that internal candidates are undergoing intensive preparation, including mentoring by Iger himself. The company has not yet disclosed who is on the shortlist. The handover at one of the world’s largest media empires is expected to be one of the industry’s key events in the coming months.