Disney names new CEO as UK streaming shows early lift

After months of speculation and uncertainty, Walt Disney has finally announced its new CEO. The entertainment giant has chosen Josh D’Amaro, the current chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, to take over the reins from Bob Iger at its annual meeting on March 18th.

The decision to appoint D’Amaro as the new CEO comes at a crucial time for Disney, as the company begins to see signs of recovery in its UK streaming business. With the ongoing pandemic causing major disruptions in the entertainment industry, this appointment is seen as a strategic move to steer the company towards a brighter future.

D’Amaro, who has been with Disney for over 20 years, has a wealth of experience and expertise in the company’s theme parks and resorts division. He has played a key role in the success of some of Disney’s most iconic attractions, including the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in driving growth and innovation in the parks and experiences sector.

But D’Amaro’s talents go beyond just theme parks. In his previous role as President of Walt Disney World Resort, he oversaw the successful launch of Disney’s first-ever streaming service, Disney+. This experience will undoubtedly be valuable as the company continues to expand its streaming business globally.

The decision to appoint D’Amaro as the new CEO has been met with widespread approval and excitement. In a statement, Bob Chapek, Disney’s current CEO, praised D’Amaro’s leadership skills and his ability to drive innovation and growth. He also expressed his confidence in D’Amaro’s ability to lead the company through these challenging times.

D’Amaro himself has expressed his gratitude and excitement for the new role, stating that he is “honored and humbled” to be chosen as the next CEO of Disney. He also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead and emphasized the importance of staying true to the company’s core values of storytelling, innovation, and creativity.

As D’Amaro takes over the helm, he will have big shoes to fill. Bob Iger, who has been with Disney for 15 years and served as CEO since 2005, is credited with transforming the company into the global entertainment powerhouse it is today. Under his leadership, Disney acquired major franchises like Marvel, Pixar, and Lucasfilm, and launched successful streaming services like Disney+.

However, Iger’s departure does not mean the end of his involvement with Disney. He will continue to serve as executive chairman and will work closely with D’Amaro to ensure a smooth transition and provide guidance and support.

The appointment of D’Amaro as the new CEO is a clear indication of Disney’s commitment to its long-term success. With his proven track record and deep understanding of the company’s values and culture, D’Amaro is well-equipped to lead Disney into the future. His appointment also sends a positive message to employees, investors, and fans, assuring them that the company is in good hands.

As we look towards the future, there is no doubt that D’Amaro’s leadership will bring new and exciting opportunities for Disney. With his passion for storytelling and innovation, he will continue to build on the company’s legacy and bring magic to audiences around the world.

In conclusion, the appointment of Josh D’Amaro as the new CEO of Disney marks the beginning of a new chapter for the company. With his leadership, experience, and vision, Disney is well-positioned to navigate through these challenging times and emerge stronger than ever. Let’s raise a glass to the future of Disney under the guidance of its new CEO, Josh D’Amaro.