Pixar Names New President as 12-Year Leader Jim Morris Steps Back

Jonathan Garson will become the next president of Pixar Animation Studios, according to an announcement made by Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman on Wednesday. The leadership transition is set to take effect on Jan. 4, 2027.

The change marks the end of a 12-year tenure for Jim Morris, who started at the studio in 2005 after working at Lucasfilm and ILM. Under his watch, Pixar films have earned more than $12 billion at the worldwide box office. Morris will not leave the company entirely. He will move into a president emeritus role where he continues as executive producer of Incredibles 3. He will also oversee talent development for Pixar and Walt Disney Studios, as well as technology initiatives. Both Garson and Morris will report directly to Bergman.

The restructuring also expands the role of Jonas Rivera. Rivera, who joined Pixar in 1994, will serve as creative executive vice president. He will oversee filmmakers and development while working closely with Garson and chief creative officer Pete Docter. Rivera and Docter will both executive produce every future Pixar feature. Rivera has won Oscars for Inside Out and Toy Story 4.

Garson has been with Disney for more than three decades and joined Pixar in 2010. He previously led the marketing and franchise team before serving as general manager. He has collaborated with Docter and Morris for the last 16 years. In his new capacity, Garson will partner with Docter to oversee all production and operations at the studio.

Bergman described the move as a step toward smooth succession. He noted that Garson has a deep background at both Pixar and Disney and understands what makes the studio unique. Bergman praised Morris for his leadership and commitment to the studio's people.

Morris said he is stepping back from day-to-day operations after 52 years in the film industry. He expressed excitement about handling special projects and working alongside his colleagues. He called Garson a fierce champion of the studio's films, people, and culture.

Pixar released Toy Story 5 this summer, which grossed over $1 billion globally. The studio's next scheduled releases are Gatto next year, followed by Ghost Market and Incredibles 3 in 2028.