After 12 years leading Pixar, Morris stepping back as emeritus; studio taps Jonathan Garson as president

Leadership changes take effect

Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman announced that Garson will become Pixar’s president and Morris will move to president emeritus. The changes are scheduled to begin Jan. 4, 2027.

Docter will continue as chief creative officer. Rivera’s expanded role will include oversight of filmmakers and development, working closely with Garson and Docter. Both Garson and Morris will report to Bergman.

Garson takes on studio oversight

Garson will partner with Docter to oversee Pixar’s production and operations. He has worked at Disney for more than three decades and joined Pixar in 2010. He has collaborated with Docter and Morris for the past 16 years. Most recently, Garson served as Pixar’s general manager, after previously leading its marketing and franchise team.

Morris retains studio projects

Morris will remain executive producer of Incredibles 3. His emeritus work will also include talent development at Pixar and across Walt Disney Studios, as well as technology initiatives.

Morris became Pixar president 12 years ago, after joining the company in 2005 following a lengthy period at Lucasfilm and ILM. During his tenure, Pixar films earned more than $12 billion at the worldwide box office.

Bergman and Morris reflect

Bergman said he had worked closely with Morris for more than 20 years and praised his leadership and commitment to Pixar. He said the transition would support a smooth succession as Morris approaches retirement.

Morris described leading Pixar as “the privilege of a lifetime,” and said that after 52 years in the business he would step back from day-to-day duties. He said he was pleased to take on special projects and expressed confidence in Garson’s leadership.