Yahoo Lifestyle Disney Hires Paramount’s Daria Cercek to Lead Film Studio’s Live-Action Division
Walt Disney Studios has appointed Daria Cercek as president of the studio’s theatrical live-action division. She will report to David Greenbaum, president of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios.
Cercek is joining Disney from Paramount, where she served as co-president of the studio’s motion picture group. In her new role, Cercek will be spearheading all aspects of Disney Live Action’s theatrical slate, responsible for the development and production of films inspired by the studio’s vast library of stories and characters, as well as backing original projects.
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“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,” Greenbaum said in a statement. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the team and look forward to the incredible contributions she will undoubtedly make.”
Disney overhauled much of its live-action division in February 2024 as Sean Bailey exited as president after 15 years and Greenbaum, Searchlight’s former chief, was appointed to the newly created role of head of Live Action and 20th Century Studios. As part of the shakeup, Disney merged two film divisions live action (responsible for remakes and spinoffs of the studio’s classics) and 20th Century Studios (formerly known as Fox, which Disney bought in 2019).
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. Executive VP of production Sam Dickerman and senior VPs of production Allison Erlikhman and Jessica Virtue will report to Cercek.
During her tenure at Paramount Pictures, Cercek and co-president Mike Ireland oversaw the studio’s film slate from development to release, including “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” “Gladiator 2,” “Smile 2,” “A Quiet Place: Day One” and “The Lost City.” She’s also worked in production and development at New Line Cinema and 20th Century Fox.
“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,” Cercek said in a statement. “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.”
Among the titles on Disney and 20th Century’s live action slate in 2025 and beyond include “Snow White,” “Lilo & Stitch,” “Freakier Friday” “The Devil Wears Prada” sequel and the live-action “Moana” remake. Deadline first reported the news of Cercek’s hiring.
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