Disney CEO Bob Iger delivered an emotional farewell address at the 2026 shareholders meeting on Wednesday, officially passing the leadership baton to Josh D’Amaro. As Iger prepares to depart after a historic tenure, he expressed gratitude for his time at the helm, stating, “It has meant more to me than I can say.”
In his address, Iger highlighted the transformation that Disney has undergone under his leadership, particularly the expansion of its streaming service, Disney+. As part of his closing remarks, he emphasized the platform's importance in the company's future, stating it was a "pivotal part of our growth strategy."
Josh D’Amaro, previously the chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, will take over the role of CEO, effective immediately. D’Amaro underscored that Disney+ will be the "digital centerpiece" of the company's strategy moving forward, aiming to enhance the platform’s reach and content offerings.
Disney+ has seen significant growth since its launch, becoming a major player in the streaming wars. D’Amaro assured shareholders that under his leadership, the platform will continue to innovate and expand, focusing on original content and exclusive releases that resonate with audiences worldwide.
The transition comes at a crucial time for Disney, as it navigates the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. Iger noted the challenges faced during his tenure, including competition from other streaming services and the need for adaptation in a digital-first world. He expressed confidence in D’Amaro’s vision, saying he is "the right person to lead Disney into its next chapter."
During the meeting, D’Amaro outlined his plans to enhance Disney+ by increasing collaboration with creators and prioritizing diverse storytelling. He stated, “We want to ensure that Disney+ is not just a streaming service, but a cultural phenomenon that engages and inspires our audiences globally.”
Iger’s farewell address was met with heartfelt applause from shareholders, many of whom have witnessed the company’s remarkable growth and transformation during his 15-year tenure. He reflected on the challenges and triumphs, emphasizing the importance of creativity and innovation in maintaining Disney’s legacy.
The departure of Iger marks the end of an era for the iconic entertainment giant. Under his guidance, Disney acquired major assets such as Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, significantly expanding its portfolio and market presence. His leadership style has been characterized by a focus on storytelling and a commitment to maintaining Disney’s core values.
As he prepares to step away from the company, Iger leaves behind a solid foundation for his successor. D’Amaro’s extensive experience in various segments of Disney’s operations positions him well to drive the company forward in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
In closing, Iger expressed his gratitude to Disney employees and shareholders, stating, “I will always be a part of this incredible family. Thank you for this journey, which has been one of the most rewarding of my life.”
As Disney transitions into this new chapter under D’Amaro, all eyes will be on how he steers the company towards a future where Disney+ stands at the forefront of its growth strategy. Investors and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the new CEO implements his vision, especially in a landscape that continues to evolve at a rapid pace.