Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson is reportedly under consideration to become Disney’s next CEO, according to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal. As current CEO Bob Iger approaches retirement, Disney is working with executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles to evaluate potential external candidates, with Wilson emerging as a notable name in the mix.
Wilson, who has led EA for over a decade, has gained attention in part due to EA’s successful partnership with Disney on Star Wars game titles, fueling speculation about a closer relationship between the two companies. Past rumors even suggested that Disney was eyeing a potential acquisition of EA, a move that would make Wilson an interesting candidate for the top job. However, EA has declined to comment on these recent reports.
Industry expert Michael Pachter from Wedbush Securities weighed in, suggesting that Wilson could bring strategic value to Disney, particularly in gaming and digital synergies. “Andrew is young enough to replace Iger, has 10 years of CEO experience, and has clearly built a successful business at EA,” said Pachter. He noted the potential integration between EA’s Ultimate Team and ESPN, adding that such synergies might even open doors for Disney in the sports betting space.
However, some analysts question Wilson’s fit for Disney’s multifaceted business model. Disney’s vast portfolio spans movies, theme parks, merchandise, TV, sports, cruises, and gaming—a unique combination that might require a CEO with extensive experience across these sectors. GamesBeat reporter Mike Minotti pointed out that while Wilson excels in gaming, he may lack the depth in other areas of Disney’s expansive operations.
Internally, Disney is also considering prominent executives from within, including co-chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro, and Disney Experiences chairman Josh D’Amaro. With Iger’s contract running through 2026, Disney still has some time to make its choice, but the speculation around Wilson suggests that Disney may be open to bringing in a gaming and tech-savvy leader for its next era.
As the search intensifies, it remains to be seen whether Disney will ultimately lean toward a media veteran or take a bold step with a gaming executive like Wilson at the helm.
