Pixar Animation Studios Announces Major Leadership Changes With Jonathan Garson as President

Pixar Animation Studios is getting a new president as Jim Morris moves to a president emeritus role on Jan. 4, 2027. Jonathan Garson will take over as the studio's new president to partner with Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter. Alan Bergman, chairman of Disney Entertainment and Studios, announced the changes on Wednesday.

New Roles And Future Projects

In his new job, Garson will manage all production and daily operations for Pixar, including department heads, producers, and post-production. Pixar recently released the billion-dollar hit 'Toy Story 5' and has upcoming original animated films titled 'Gatto' and 'Ghost Market'. Meanwhile, Morris will work as executive producer for 'Incredibles 3', which has a theatrical release planned for June 2028. Morris will also focus on mentoring and talent development across Pixar and Walt Disney Studios, along with new technology initiatives.

Executive Shifts And Past Careers

Jonas Rivera is stepping into an expanded creative executive vice president role to lead filmmakers and development while working closely with Docter and Garson. Garson and Morris will both report directly to Alan Bergman. Morris has spent 21 years at Pixar, serving as president since 2014 after joining the studio in 2005 from Lucasfilm. Under his leadership, Pixar films earned more than $12 billion globally. Garson has worked with Disney for over 30 years and joined Pixar in 2010, previously serving as general manager and leading marketing. Rivera has been with Pixar since 1994, producing hits like 'Inside Out' and 'Inside Out 2'.

Context

Pixar Animation Studios operates as a key subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, known globally for pioneering computer-animated feature films. Leadership changes at major film studios typically happen to plan for future creative directions and smooth executive retirements over multi-year periods. The studio continues to balance ongoing franchise sequels with new original film projects.