Longtime Disney CEO Bob Iger will be replaced by Josh D’Amaro on March 18, 2026. Upon the transition, Iger will continue to serve as Senior Advisor and a member of the Disney Board until his retirement from the company on December 31, 2026.

Bob Iger issued a farewell statement via email to members of D23, the official Disney fan club.

Dear D23 Member,

When I returned to Disney a few years ago, I did so with a deep sense of responsibility to the company, our Cast Members, and the generations of fans who have loved Disney for more than a century. Over two decades as CEO, my focus has always been on protecting what makes Disney special, while helping the company evolve for a changing world.

As I prepare to step down as CEO next month, I wanted to speak directly to the D23 community, the fans who carry Disney’s story forward, pass them between generations, and remind us every day why this company exists in the first place.

During my time in this role, we’ve expanded Disney’s reach and ambition in meaningful ways, from welcoming new creative voices and franchises into the company, to growing our experiences around the world, to investing in the future of storytelling across film, television, parks, and technology. None of this happened because of any one person. It is the result of talented teams, bold creativity, and a shared belief in what Disney can be at its best.

As I think about what comes next for Disney, I do so with the confidence in the leadership ahead. Josh D’Amaro, who many of you know, embodies the spirit of Disney. He has deep respect for our legacy, genuine love for our fans, and an abundance of optimism about the future. He understands that honoring what came before and building what comes next are not competing ideas, but inseparable ones. I know the company will be in thoughtful, capable hands.

Thank you for your passion, your loyalty, and for holding us to the standard that makes Disney so special. It’s the same standard Walt set a century ago, and one that will continue to guide the company long after my time in this role. I’ll always be grateful to have been part of this remarkable story – the Disney family will always be a part of me.

Gratefully,