News

What They’re Saying About Disney’s Leadership Change

Written by Joshua Posted February 3rd, 2026

Earlier today, Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden were named Disney’s CEO and President & CCO, respectively. We’ve already talked about the leadership change, so I won’t rehash that here. Instead, I wanted to pull together a collection of quotes from Disney’s past and present power players. These weren’t lifted from press releases. They were all shared on social media, which makes them feel a lot more organic. I especially liked the words from Bruce Vaughan and Michael Eisner.

Josh D’Amaro

Incoming CEO of The Walt Disney Company

“The most important part of Disney will always be the people. I have had the pleasure of working with tens of thousands of Cast, Imagineers, and employees over the years… and it is because of them and the millions of Disney fans around the world that I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to lead this extraordinary company.

“Congratulations to Dana Walden for becoming the company’s first-ever President and Chief Creative Officer for The Walt Disney Company. I look forward to working more closely with you as we continue to cultivate and share our powerful stories to Disney fans around the world.

“The remarkable foundation Robert Iger built over the last 20 years inspires all of us. As we look to Disney’s next era of innovation, creativity, and growth, I’m excited for the future and honored to stand alongside the best storytellers on earth.”

Dana Walden

Incoming President and Chief Creative Officer of the Walt Disney Company

“I’m honored to be named Disney’s first President and Chief Creative Officer and to work with our outstanding next CEO Josh D’Amaro and my brilliant colleagues Alan Bergman, Jimmy Pitaro, and Asad Ayaz. This is a dream job for me – I’m grateful to Robert Iger and the Disney board for this opportunity to build on Disney’s wonderful legacy and carry our creative endeavors into the future.”

Bob Iger

CEO of The Walt Disney Company

“Congratulations to Disney’s next CEO Josh D’Amaro! He is an exceptional leader and the right person to lead Disney into the future. And congratulations to Dana Walden, who will become the company’s President and Chief Creative Officer. I’m excited for you both!

Asad Ayaz

Chief Marketing and Brand Officer of The Walt Disney Company

“The future is in good hands. Congratulations to our new CEO, Josh D’Amaro, and to Disney’s first Chief Creative Officer, Dana Walden. One of my favorite photos with our leaders (from the ‘24 Disney Halloween costume contest!).”

Bruce Vaughn

President & Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Imagineering

“Congratulations to Josh D’Amaro on being named the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

“Josh has long been one of Imagineering’s most genuine champions — someone with strong creative instincts who truly understands the power of story, place, and emotional connection. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with him, and I’m personally grateful that almost three years ago he invited me back to lead Imagineering again. It’s a decision that speaks to his belief in creativity, collaboration, and the people who bring these worlds to life.

“With Dana Walden serving as President and Chief Creative Officer, Josh has an accomplished creative leader helping steward the company’s storytelling as it continues to evolve across platforms and generations.

“I’m also deeply grateful to Bob Iger, whose leadership and belief in creativity helped build the foundation we stand on today.

“The road ahead is an exciting one — and Walt Disney Imagineering is ready.”

Michael Eisner

CEO of The Walt Disney Company (1984–2005)

“Congratulations to Josh D’Amaro for becoming the CEO of the Walt Disney Company, and congratulations to Chairman James Gorman for making such a wise pick as well as promoting Dana Walden to president and chief creative officer. My advice to Josh is continue Bob Iger’s strategy that creativity will handle profits, always protect the brand, and keep close the words of Walt Disney: ‘We love to entertain kings and queens, but the vital thing to remember is this—every guest receives the VIP treatment.’ Good luck.”

Jeff Vahle

President of the Walt Disney World Resort

“Josh D’Amaro is the real deal – someone who genuinely connects with people, with strong leadership and a passion to carry Disney into the future. And as you can see from this photo, he is not afraid to have a little fun at work.

“All of us at Walt Disney World congratulate Josh and send our best wishes as he begins his journey as CEO of The Walt Disney Company.”