EXCLUSIVE: Walt Disney Studios has named Daria Cercek to become President, Disney Live Action – Theatrical. She will report to David Greenbaum, President of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios. She will leave her post as Co-President, Motion Picture Group at Paramount Pictures, where with Michael Ireland she steered the studio’s film slates.
With the impending appointment of Skydance leadership at Paramount Global, I’d heard for some time that the well-regarded Cercek was being courted for a top post at Disney, and I’m told this has now transpired with the full support of Paramount President/CEO Brian Robbins. Ireland will run the division at Paramount.
In her new role, Cercek will be responsible for spearheading all aspects of Disney Live Action’s theatrical slate, driving the development and production of films inspired by the studio’s iconic stories and characters, and championing original projects. Reporting to Cercek will be Sam Dickerman, EVP, Production; Allison Erlikhman, SVP, Production; and Jessica Virtue, SVP Production.
“Daria’s unique creative talent, passion for storytelling and deep experience working with world class filmmakers fits perfectly with Disney’s mission to create unforgettable cinematic experiences that will stand the test of time,” said David Greenbaum, President Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios, in confirming the move. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the team and look forward to the incredible contributions she will undoubtedly make.”
Said Cercek, “Disney has long set the standard for timeless storytelling, bringing to life some of the most beloved characters and stories that have captivated generations of audiences around the world. Like so many, I grew up inspired by the magic of Disney, so it is a true privilege to join Alan Bergman, David, and this incredible team. I look forward to working alongside them, and today’s most visionary filmmakers, to build on the studio’s extraordinary legacy.”
During her tenure at Paramount Pictures, Cercek has been an integral force behind the studio’s highly successful theatrical efforts post-pandemic. Most recently, together with Ireland, Cercek oversaw the releases of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, which has earned a franchise-best $478.6M to-date, launching the franchise to over $1.2B total in worldwide box office gross; Gladiator II; Smile 2; A Quiet Place: Day One; IF; Bob Marley: One Love; and Mean Girls. Prior to that, Cercek ushered the theatrical releases of Scream VI; The Lost City; Sonic the Hedgehog 2; Mission: Impossible; and Smile.
Prior to joining Paramount Pictures, Cercek served as Executive Vice President, Production and Development for New Line Cinema, and before that she served as Senior Vice President of Production and Development for 20th Century Fox.
Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios combined forces in February 2024 under Greenbaum’s leadership. Remaining in their roles and reporting to Greenbaum, Steve Asbell will continue to lead 20th Century Studios and Vanessa Morrison will continue to lead Disney live action projects for streaming.
The combined upcoming slates include Snow White, The Amateur, Lilo & Stitch, Freakier Friday, Deliver Me From Evil, Avatar, Tron: Ares, Predator: Badlands, Send Help, The Devil Wears Prada sequel, Moana live action, the first-ever Bluey animated feature film, and Ice Age 6.
