Sep 23, 2021

Disney Channels Boss Gary Marsh to Step Down, Move to Production Deal

After 33 years at Disney, Gary Marsh is stepping down. However, Marsh, who has been responsible for Disney Channels for many years, will remain in Disney's orbit.

Marsh will develop content for all Disney streaming and linear platforms, including projects based on existing Disney properties, under a multi-year production deal. Titles include two new films in the “Descendants” series and a prequel to “Beauty and the Beast,” “Tink,” “School for Sensitive Souls,” and “Witch Mountain.”

Marsh, who is stepping down at the end of this year, began discussing a move with Disney two and a half years ago. Ultimately, he stayed on while Disney acquired Fox. His current title is President and Chief Creative Officer of Disney Branded Television, which produces Disney-branded channels and Disney+ content.

Marsh joined the Disney Channel in 1988 as executive director of original programming and rose through the ranks as the channel's reach and prestige grew. He eventually became responsible for programming for all Disney-branded channels, including Disney Junior.

Marsh was responsible for many hits, including Phineas and Ferb, Gravity Falls, The Proud Family, The House of Owls, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Doc McStuffins, Elena of Avalor, and Sofia the First. He has directed productions of live-action and animated series.

In a statement, he said:

For 33 years, I have worked with the best in television. The stories we've told, the music we've created, the stars we've discovered, the franchises we've built, have all entertained and engaged millions of children and families around the world. Thanks to the reach of Disney's streaming platform, these stories, along with all the new stories I look forward to telling, will live forever in the hearts and minds of future generations. What better time to join the ranks of production than at a time as fascinating and creatively stimulating as this one.”

Marsh's departure comes as Disney shifts its focus from linear TV to streaming and the relative importance of the network declines. The company closed its international channels last year.