Pixar Announces Leadership Change: Jonathan Garson Named President

Pixar Animation Studios has announced a leadership transition effective January 4, 2027. Jim Morris, who has served as the studio's president for 12 years, will transition into the role of President Emeritus. He will be succeeded by Jonathan Garson, a veteran of Disney for more than 30 years, who will serve as the new president.

Leadership Roles and Reporting Structure

In his new capacity as president, Garson will oversee all production and operations for Pixar, including department heads, producers, and post-production. He will partner with Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter. Both Garson and Morris will report to Alan Bergman, the Chairman of Disney Entertainment Studios.

Jonas Rivera will move into an expanded role as Creative Executive VP. In this position, Rivera will lead filmmakers and development, working closely with both Docter and Garson. Rivera and Docter will both serve as executive producers on each Pixar film.

Background of Incoming and Outgoing Executives

Jim Morris joined Pixar in 2005 and was the studio's second president, following Ed Catmull. Before joining Pixar, Morris had a career at Lucasfilm and ILM, where he served as the general manager for ILM and later as president of Lucas Digital Ltd. During his tenure as president, Pixar's feature films have amassed more than $12 billion at the worldwide box office.

As President Emeritus, Morris will continue to serve as an executive producer on "Incredibles 3," which is scheduled for a theatrical release on June 16, 2028. He will also focus on technology initiatives to support artists and storytellers, as well as talent development and mentoring across Pixar and the broader Walt Disney studio.

Jonathan Garson has been with Disney for more than 30 years and joined Pixar in 2010. Most recently, he served as Pixar's general manager and previously led the studio's franchise and marketing team. Garson has worked closely with Morris and Docter for 16 years.

Executive Statements

Alan Bergman expressed respect for Morris, stating, “Having worked closely with Jim Morris for more than 20 years, I have enormous respect for his leadership and unwavering commitment to Pixar and its people.” Regarding the succession, Bergman said, “As we prepare for his eventual retirement, this transition will ensure a smooth succession for the team.”

Morris stated, “Leading Pixar has been the privilege of a lifetime, and I’m honored to have been a steward of its legacy alongside extraordinary artists, storytellers, and technologists who keep redefining what animation can do and expanding the art of cinema.” He added that he is "thrilled to move into handling a number of special projects, working alongside my friends Pete, Jonathan, and Jonas at Pixar, and of course Alan Bergman."

Garson described the role as a "humbling opportunity" and noted, "Jim has shown me what it looks like to safeguard this culture of quality, innovation, and creative ambition."

Why it matters

This leadership shift comes as Pixar manages a significant upcoming release slate. The studio's most recent release was the billion-dollar hit "Toy Story 5." Upcoming projects include the original animated films "Gatto," arriving in theaters March 5, 2027, and "Ghost Market," arriving March 10, 2028, followed by "Incredibles 3" in June 2028.

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Sources

• deadline.com: Pixar President Change: Jonathan Garson Replaces Jim Morris
• variety.com: Pixar's Jim Morris Named President Emeritus; Jonathan Garson President

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.