Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro outlines fan-first growth strategy at D23 event

At a media session during Disney’s D23 fan gathering, CEO Josh D’Amaro described his vision of expanding the company through a fan-first philosophy, recalling his first Disney assignment involving Main Street trash-can placement and his habit of walking parks to hear guests and cast members. He argued that leaders must stay directly connected to consumers, a principle that now guides divisions from Walt Disney Imagineering to the studios.

D’Amaro outlined three strategic pillars: delivering premier stories across movies, parks and Broadway; leveraging emerging technology to enhance storytelling; and presenting the business as a unified “One Disney” operation. He credited predecessor Bob Iger for global expansion and pointed to Disney Cruise Line’s new Singapore-based ship, an upcoming Japan vessel, and smaller mid-size ships as major growth drivers. Streaming’s worldwide footprint was also cited as a platform to cross-sell Disney’s portfolio. Finally, he said Disney will keep welcoming diverse fans while reaching new markets through gaming, TikTok and Disney+ collaborations.