Disney President Dana Walden Discusses Late-Night and 'Moana' Box Office

Disney President and Chief Creative Officer Dana Walden has indicated that discussions are ongoing regarding the future of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on ABC. Speaking at Bloomberg's Screentime event on a Thursday morning, Walden acknowledged the complexities of the late-night television landscape, stating, "It's a very challenging daypart, late-night." She further elaborated that while Jimmy Kimmel is performing exceptionally well, with his ratings showing an increase, the overall late-night segment presents significant challenges. Walden's comments suggest a desire to retain Kimmel's show, but the specifics of any renewal agreement remain to be finalized. The conversation also touched upon the performance of Disney's recent live-action adaptation of "Moana," which did not meet box office expectations. Walden attributed the film's struggles to a variety of factors, including the inherent difficulty in translating beloved animated features into live-action formats. She noted that audiences often have deeply ingrained expectations for animated characters and stories, which can be challenging to replicate in a live-action setting. The original animated "Moana," released in 2016, was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $687 million worldwide and earning two Academy Award nominations. The live-action version, announced in 2023 with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson attached to produce and potentially star, aims to recapture the magic of the original. However, Walden's remarks suggest that the initial box office performance has been a point of concern for the studio. She emphasized that the creative process for live-action adaptations of animated films requires careful consideration of audience nostalgia and the unique visual elements that define the original works. The live-action "Moana" is slated for release in 2026. Walden's dual focus on the enduring appeal of late-night hosts like Kimmel and the strategic challenges of major film releases highlights the multifaceted nature of content strategy within the Walt Disney Company. The company continues to navigate evolving viewer habits and the competitive entertainment market, seeking to balance established successes with new creative endeavors. Her insights provide a glimpse into the executive-level considerations shaping Disney's programming and film slate.