Dana Walden announces new leaders of Disney Entertainment expansion

Dana Walden, the new President and Chief Creative Officer at The Walt Disney Company, is shaking things up by announcing a fresh leadership structure for Disney Entertainment. This move brings together the streaming, film, television, games, and digital entertainment divisions under one umbrella.

Walden steps into her role alongside Josh D’Amaro, who takes the reins as CEO. Previously serving as Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Walden brings a wealth of experience to her new position.

One of the key changes is the appointment of Debra O’Connell to the role of Chairman of Disney Entertainment Television. In this capacity, she will oversee a variety of television brands, including ABC Entertainment, Disney Branded Television, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content, and creative aspects of both 20th Television and 20th Television Animation, as well as the continued supervision of ABC News and the ABC Owned television stations.

Alan Bergman, who serves as Chairman of Disney Entertainment Studios, maintains his leadership over the company’s film studios, covering production, marketing, and distribution, and shares oversight of Direct-to-Consumer with Walden.

The Direct-to-Consumer division will see Joe Earley and Adam Smith stepping in as Co-Presidents. Together, they will handle strategy and financial performance across Disney+ and Hulu. Earley will also take on the role of Head of Content Strategy for the division. Meanwhile, Smith continues his position as Chief Product and Technology Officer for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, reporting to Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN.

Sean Shoptaw, Executive Vice President (EVP) of Games and Digital Entertainment at Disney, will transition to Disney Entertainment, leading his group under Walden’s supervision. Shoptaw brings with him oversight of the company’s games business and collaboration with Epic Games on a Disney-themed universe within Fortnite.

John Landgraf, Chairman of FX, remains under Walden’s direct leadership within the new structure.

Asad Ayaz, Chief Marketing and Brand Officer at Disney, will oversee marketing teams across all business segments, reporting to both Walden and D’Amaro.

With these new appointments and changes, the cohesion and growth of Disney Entertainment are set to strengthen, leveraging the emotional connection that Disney content has always fostered.