In an intriguing appearance on the “Let’s Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripa” podcast, the esteemed Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, delved into his ongoing quest to find a suitable successor. “Obsessed” might be an understatement, as Iger candidly shared how finding the ideal candidate to take on the colossal mantle at Disney has become his foremost priority.
During his engaging chat with Ripa, Iger also touched upon various lighter topics, such as his wife Willow Bay’s reaction to his fleeting presidential ambitions, playing host to legendary musicians Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, and receiving an honorary knighthood prior to Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. Nonetheless, the conversation inevitably steered back to the pressing issue of Disney’s future leadership.
Addressing his obsession with identifying a successor, Iger emphasized the critical nature of this mission, both for the company’s sustained growth and for his own plans to retire gracefully. “It’s actually something that I’m obviously very focused on, not just because of the past, but because I’d like to retire again and I’d like to leave the company in great hands,” Iger remarked. While the CEO vets elite candidates, he confidently affirmed the search’s importance to both him and the Disney board.
One topic left no room for speculation: Iger’s sons are out of the running for the vaunted role. Despite their interest in parts of Disney’s vast empire, Iger clarified that the next CEO would not come from his immediate family.
Reflecting on his storied tenure, Iger’s journey with Disney started in 2005 and included multiple transitions of power. He announced his initial retirement in 2020, with Bob Chapek as his successor, only to return as CEO in late 2022 after Chapek’s subsequent dismissal. With Iger’s contract now extended through December 2026, he remains determined to secure a worthy heir soon, with current division heads Dana Walden, Alan Bergman, Jimmy Pitaro, and Josh D’Amaro being speculated as frontrunners.
As a fan and reader, what are your thoughts on Iger’s dedicated search for a successor? Do you have any potential candidates in mind, or do you believe one of the speculated choices is the ideal fit? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Source: WDW News Today
