Pixar Animation Studios will undergo a leadership change on Jan. 4, 2027, as Jonathan Garson is named the studio’s new president. Garson will partner with Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter to oversee all production and operations, including producers, department heads, and post-production.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Alan Bergman, chairman of Disney Entertainment and Studios at The Walt Disney Company. Bergman stated that Garson has "proven to be an exceptional leader with a strong sense of what makes Pixar unique and how its storytelling comes to life in so many ways for fans, and Pete Docter and I are excited for him to step into this role."
Jim Morris, who served as president for 12 of his 21 years at the studio, will transition to a president emeritus role. Morris will continue as executive producer of “Incredibles 3,” which is slated for a June 2028 theatrical release. In his new capacity, Morris will focus on technology initiatives to support artists and storytellers, as well as talent development and mentoring across Pixar and Walt Disney Studios.
Bergman noted that the transition is intended to ensure a "smooth succession" as Morris prepares for his eventual retirement. He described Morris as a "tremendous partner in business" and a "great friend."
Garson, who has been with Disney for more than 30 years, joined Pixar in 2010. He previously served as Pixar’s general manager and led the studio's marketing and franchise team. Garson stated, “Jim has shown me what it looks like to safeguard this culture of quality, innovation, and creative ambition, and I’m extremely grateful to both him and Alan for their trust and support,” and looks forward to working with Docter, Jonas Rivera, and the production leadership team led by Katherine Sarafian and Lindsey Collins.
Morris, who joined Pixar in 2005 after a tenure at Lucasfilm and ILM, was named president in 2014. During his time as president, Pixar’s feature films generated more than $12 billion at the global box office. Morris stated that leading the studio has been the "privilege of a lifetime" and expressed confidence that "Pixar is in very good hands" with Garson.
Additionally, Bergman announced that Jonas Rivera will move into an expanded creative executive VP role. Rivera, who has been with Pixar since 1994, will lead filmmakers and development while working closely with Docter and Garson. Rivera, who has won Oscars for “Inside Out” and “Toy Story 4,” stated he is "deeply honored to step into this new role" and intends to build on the lessons learned from Morris.
