Disney’s New Power Play: Who’s Running the Big Entertainment Machine?

The Walt Disney Company has reshuffled its leadership, bringing games and digital media under the same umbrella as film, TV, and streaming. Dana Walden, now President and Chief Creative Officer, is at the helm of this expanded unit called Disney Entertainment. Her role now covers everything from blockbusters to mobile games, and she will oversee a larger team of executives. Alan Bergman stays on as Chairman for the film studios, keeping his hands in production, marketing, and distribution. He will also co‑lead the Direct‑to‑Consumer (DTC) side with Joe Earley and Adam Smith. This partnership aims to tighten strategy across Disney+ and Hulu, making content and tech decisions smoother. Debra OConnell steps up as Chairman of Disney Entertainment Television. She will manage ABC Entertainment, Disney Branded TV, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content, and the creative direction for 20th Television. Her responsibilities also include ABC News and local stations, giving her a wide reach over TV brands.John Landgraf remains Chairman of FX and will continue reporting directly to Walden. He keeps the successful FX brand running while also overseeing Onyx Collective, a growing creative initiative. Sean Shoptaw, previously with Disney Experiences, now heads Games and Digital Entertainment. His team moves into the new entertainment structure to align gaming with streaming, opening doors for collaborations like the upcoming Disney universe in Fortnite. Other leaders adjust as well: Eric Schrier shifts to report to Joe Earley, and Joe Earley moves from DTC President to Co‑President with Adam Smith. The memo hints that Craig Erwich may report to Debra, but this isn’t confirmed. Walden’s memo emphasizes a unified approach: “Fans want to engage with Disney in many ways—on Disney+, in theaters, or through games. ” The new structure is designed to make storytelling more seamless across all platforms and to empower creators. The company’s focus remains on delivering beloved stories wherever fans choose to experience them, reinforcing Disney’s position as a top storytelling brand.