Daria Cercek Exits Paramount to Head Disney Live Action Theatrical

Daria Cercek is exiting her post at Paramount Pictures to head Disney’s Live Action Theatrical division. She will report to David Greenbaum, president of Disney Live Action features and 20th Century Studios.

In the role, she will oversee Disney’s live-action theatrical slate. She joins the company after serving as the co-president of Motion Picture Group at Paramount Pictures with Mike Ireland since 2021.

Cercek has plenty of experience managing a theatrical slate of big-budgeted productions, after overseeing titles like Gladiator II and the Mission: Impossible movies during her Paramount tenure. Along with the studio’s most recent release, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, other titles include box office successes Scream VI and The Lost City.

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Cercek, a Brown University graduate, previously held posts at New Line and 20th Century. She exits Paramount as Paramount Global is anticipating the imminent close of the merger with Skydance.

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.”

Disney’s live-action theatrical slate is largely made up of live-action versions of the studio’s classic animations. Upcoming releases include Snow White and Lilo & Stitch.

“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 Greenbaum. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the team and look forward to the incredible contributions she will undoubtedly make.”