Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro Plans Disney+ Super App Transformation

The Walt Disney Company plans to transform Disney+ from a video streaming platform into an integrated fan ecosystem by spring 2027. CEO Josh D'Amaro announced the service will evolve into a super app that combines streaming with games, merchandise, and ticket sales for theme parks and cruises to serve as the digital centerpiece of fan engagement.

D'Amaro stated the shift aims to leverage first-party data to increase personalization, lower subscriber churn, and increase lifetime fan value. He is also weighing the introduction of a free, ad-supported streaming tier to attract new users. These strategic moves follow strong fiscal third-quarter 2026 results, where revenue rose 7% to $25.25 billion, driven largely by record performance in the parks division.

Despite the financial gains, D'Amaro expressed dissatisfaction with the company's stagnant stock price. To stabilize the business, Disney has implemented cost-cutting layoffs at ESPN, Pixar, and National Geographic. Simultaneously, the company faces political pressure from the Trump administration and the Federal Communications Commission, which has opened an early review of Disney's broadcast station licenses over diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and specific ABC programming.