Pixar names Jonathan Garson president; Jim Morris moves to emeritus
Seven Lights
Disney announced on Wednesday that Jonathan Garson will become president of Pixar Animation Studios on January 4, 2027, succeeding Jim Morris, who has led the studio for 12 years and will take the title of president emeritus.
Mr Garson brings more than 30 years at Disney to the post. He most recently served as Pixar’s general manager after leading the studio’s marketing and franchise team. The role will put him in charge of production and operations at the animation studio, working alongside chief creative officer Pete Docter, who continues to lead the company that made “Toy Story” and “Inside Out”.
Jonas Rivera, a producer on several of the studio’s pictures, steps into an expanded creative executive vice-president role leading filmmakers and development, working closely with both Mr Docter and Mr Garson.
Mr Morris has been with Pixar for 21 years. Disney said he will remain involved as executive producer of “Incredibles 3”, which is due in theatres on June 16, 2028, and will continue to focus on talent development, mentorship and technology initiatives across Pixar and the wider Walt Disney studio operation.
“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,” said Alan Bergman, Disney Entertainment co-chairman, in a statement. “As we prepare for his eventual retirement, this transition will ensure a smooth succession for the team.” Mr Bergman called Mr Garson “an exceptional leader with a strong sense of what makes Pixar unique”. Sixteen of Mr Garson’s Disney years were spent working with Pixar filmmakers and creative teams.
The announcement was disclosed by the parent company on Wednesday afternoon and reported by trade publications. Deadline reported the January 4, 2027 effective date; Variety and The Hollywood Reporter detailed the emeritus arrangement and Mr Rivera’s expanded brief.
The studio’s creative direction remains Mr Docter’s; the presidency governs the production machinery around it. Both men will report to Mr Bergman, as the Pixar president has historically done.
Mr Garson and Mr Morris will work together through the transition period before the handover takes effect at the start of next year.