Disney Executive Leaves Company Amid Critical Negotiations

BURBANK, California — Disney‘s Platform Distribution President, who has been with the company for over 20 years, left on Friday as the company prepares for vital negotiations. This departure comes just a week after he participated in a significant event related to ESPN‘s upcoming streaming service.

Sources close to the situation confirmed that Connolly’s exit was unexpected, occurring before the start of crucial discussions with distributors as Disney ramps up for the launch of a new stand-alone streaming service. Disney CEO Bob Iger and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro were among attendees at last week’s upfront presentation.

To fill the leadership void, Sean Breen and Jimmy Zasowski will serve as interim leaders of the Platform Distribution group. John Ourand, a media industry specialist, reported on the development, noting that the exact reasons for Connolly’s departure remain unclear, although speculation about his future has arisen.

Connolly’s role included spearheading negotiations with major distributors, including YouTube TV, which has over 8 million subscribers. This negotiation is especially pressing as the current contract with Disney is set to expire later this year.

In the past two years, Connolly has been integral in negotiations with Charter Communications and DirecTV, following a notable blackout period for Spectrum customers. These negotiations aimed at securing favorable terms for Disney and other associated channels.

Since 2019, Connolly led the Platform Distribution team, reporting directly to top executives within Disney Entertainment. He began his journey with Disney in 2003, rising through various positions before taking the helm of Platform Distribution.

As Disney gears up for the streaming service launch in late summer, the focus will be on maintaining ESPN’s stronghold in the competitive market.