Disney Exec Adam Smith Named Sole Leader DTC, Joe Earley To Head TV

Key Points:

• Disney's direct-to-consumer leadership is being streamlined, with Adam Smith named sole Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer, Disney Entertainment, overseeing Disney+, Hulu, and related operations, while Joe Earley moves to lead Disney Entertainment Television Franchise and Content Strategy.
• This leadership change aligns with Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro and CFO Hugh Johnston’s initiative to improve efficiency and productivity amid speculation of a major reorganization and upcoming layoffs within the company.
• Adam Smith, previously Co-President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, will focus on global SVOD business, product development, engineering, and viewer experience, credited with enhancing Disney+ user experience and leading the successful ESPN streaming launch.
• Joe Earley, formerly Co-President of Direct-to-Consumer and head of content strategy, will now oversee content development, production, and creative talent across Disney Entertainment Television, reporting to Debra O’Connell.
• The changes come as Disney transitions from traditional linear TV to streaming services, with the direct-to-consumer division posting its first quarterly profit in mid-2024, nearly five years after Disney+ launched.