JUST REVEALED: 700 Experts Vote on Who Should Be Disney’s Next CEO

The hunt for the next CEO of the Walt Disney Company is well underway. The years-long search is expected to end in early 2026, and now experts are weighing in.

Although many names have been discussed, Bloomberg’s latest polls have placed a popular name as the likely successor, with a few surprise nods.

Josh D’Amaro’s name keeps coming to the forefront in the Disney CEO discussions. In Bloomberg’s latest polls, the question of the next CEO was raised. The top answer was Chairperson of Disney Parks and Resorts Josh D’Amaro, and this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this.

Bloomberg asked more than 700 industry experts who they think will win the “real-life Game of Thrones” succession battle. In the results, D’Amaro won the top spot with 212 votes. Dana Walden, entertainment co-head, took the second spot with 159 votes.

The biggest surprise was that Bob Iger, the current CEO, received 126 votes, indicating that several experts don’t expect him to step away from the role. Iger began his CEO tenure in 2005 before stepping away in 2020. That year, Bob Chapek took over the role before being removed from it in 2022. Iger stepped back into the role during the tumultuous time, and they confirmed in 2024 that his contract would expire in 2026. They have since reiterated that Iger would step down from the role, although this poll makes it clear that some experts remain unsure.

During Bloomberg’s previous poll, Dana Walden took the top spot, and the publication noted “this poll reflects the growing conventional wisdom in Hollywood.” D’Amaro has been considered the frontrunner for several months now, although tensions have allegedly been high.  D’Amaro’s understanding of Disney culture is said to have set him apart from others in the race.

According to “people with knowledge on the matter,” his three decades of experience with the company are said to have played a role in his cultural knowledge. D’Amaro is also supposedly well-liked by those who run Disney’s film and TV units. D’Amaro has also operated as the face of the company in several capacities, especially at events like D23, where big Disney news announcements are often shared regarding the parks and entertainment sectors of the company.

Disney has yet to share exactly when the successor will be announced, but we are gearing up for an early to mid-2026 announcement. Be sure to keep following AllEars for more Disney news and updates.

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Who do you want to see become the CEO? Tell us in the comments!