Pixar Names Jonathan Garson President Effective January 2027

More than $12 billion in worldwide box office revenue accumulated during the tenure of outgoing Pixar Animation Studios president Jim Morris. That financial record frames the leadership transition announced Wednesday, in which Jonathan Garson will assume the presidency on Jan. 4, 2027. Morris, who has spent 21 years at the studio, will move into a new position as president emeritus.

Alan Bergman, chairman of Disney Entertainment and Studios at The Walt Disney Company, made the announcement. He described the move as a preparation step for Morris’ eventual retirement. Bergman noted that both Garson and Morris will report directly to him. He praised Garson for understanding the studio’s identity and its method of connecting with audiences through storytelling.

Garson’s new role includes direct oversight of producers, department heads, and post-production. He will work alongside Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter to manage the studio’s operations. Garson has been with Disney for more than 30 years and joined Pixar in 2010. He previously served as general manager before leading the marketing and franchise team. The studio recently released "Toy Story 5," a billion-dollar hit, and has two original features, "Gatto" and "Ghost Market," scheduled for release.

Morris will remain involved in specific projects and strategic initiatives. He will continue as executive producer on "Incredibles 3," which is set for release in June 2028. His other duties will include mentoring and talent development at Pixar and Walt Disney Studios, along with technology initiatives designed to support artists and storytellers. Morris said that after 52 years in the industry, he will step away from daily management to focus on special projects.

The announcement also includes an expanded role for Jonas Rivera, who will serve as creative executive vice president. Rivera will lead filmmakers and development, working closely with Docter and Garson. He joined Pixar in 1994 as the studio’s first production intern and has worked on nearly every release since. His credits include Oscar wins for "Inside Out" and "Toy Story 4," as well as an executive producer role on "Inside Out 2," the studio’s biggest worldwide hit.

Garson credited Morris with setting standards for innovation and creative ambition. He expressed intent to collaborate with the production leadership team, including Katherine Sarafian and Lindsey Collins. Morris endorsed Garson as a committed advocate for the studio’s films and culture. Rivera stated that he will draw on Morris’ guidance while supporting the studio’s artists through the leadership change.