James Pitaro has been named President of ESPN and Co-Chair Disney Media Networks. Pitaro, who has served as Chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media since 2016, replaces John Skipper as ESPN President, who resigned in December after admitting he had a substance abuse problem.
Pitaro built Yahoo Sports prior to leading Disney’s creation of innovative interactive products and services.
“Jimmy is a talented and dedicated leader with the right strategic vision, relentless drive, and passion for sports required to lead the stellar ESPN team at this incredibly dynamic time,” Mr. Iger said. “Jimmy forged his career at the intersection of technology, sports, and media, and his vast experience and keen perspective will be invaluable in taking ESPN into the future. I also want to extend my utmost thanks to George Bodenheimer for serving as Acting Chair of ESPN these past few months; he is a true industry pioneer and helped make ESPN the undisputed leader in sports.”
“As a passionate and lifelong sports fan, I am honored to be joining the ESPN team during such a pivotal time in its storied history,” Mr. Pitaro said. “The appetite for quality sports content across platforms has never been greater, and I am looking forward to working with the talented ESPN team as we continue to redefine the future fan experience.”
