Jonathan Garson has been promoted to president of Pixar Animation Studios, succeeding Jim Morris, who is preparing to retire from the role. The Walt Disney Company announced the leadership change on Wednesday. Garson will assume the position on January 4.
Garson has spent more than 30 years at Disney and most recently served as Pixar’s general manager, following a role leading the studio’s marketing and franchise team. As president, he will oversee production and operations and work alongside chief creative officer Pete Docter. Garson and Morris will report to Alan Bergman, chairman of Disney Entertainment and Studios.
Morris, who has worked at Pixar for 21 years and served as its president for the past 12, will move into the role of president emeritus. He will remain involved as an executive producer on “Incredibles 3,” as well as through talent development, mentorship and technology initiatives. The film is scheduled for release in June 2028.
Disney also promoted Jonas Rivera to executive vice president of creative. He will oversee directors, creative vice presidents, development, casting and content advisement, working in partnership with Docter. Rivera and Docter will serve as executive producers on all Pixar films.
Morris said he would step away from day-to-day responsibilities after 52 years in the industry, while continuing to handle special projects with colleagues at Pixar. He also expressed confidence in Garson’s ability to lead the studio. Garson said he was grateful for the opportunity and looked forward to working with Pixar’s creative and production teams.
Pixar’s upcoming slate includes the original features “Gatto” and “Ghost Market,” followed by “Incredibles 3.”
Sources: IndieWire.