Adam Bonnett, the head of original programming for Disney Channels Worldwide is leaving the company after 21 years to become a producer,
Adam Bonnett, the executive vice president of original programming, and who has been overseeing all live-action development and current original series and movies for the Disney Channel (DStv 303) and Disney XD (DStv 304) as well as casting and talent relations for these two channels, will be leaving Disney in November.
Disney will name a replacement during November.
Adam Bonnet joined the Disney Channel in 1997 and was promoted to his current executive vice-president position in 2013 after he previously had the position of senior vice-president for original programming for the Disney Channel.
"The demand for programming content across many platforms is at an all-time high so this is the right time for me to explore producing opportunities, something I've dreamt about forever," says Adam Bonnett.
"I'm lucky to have had the benefit of a fulfilling career at Disney Channel working with many amazingly talented people. As I transition to an exciting new career chapter, it's with unending gratitude to my longtime mentor Gary Marsh as well as Nancy Kanter for both their inspiring leadership and friendship throughout the years."
Gary Marsh, Disney Channels Worldwide president and chief creative officer says "Adam's own well-developed sense of humor and his exceptional understanding of what makes kids laugh has helped Disney Channel deliver decades of entertaining and iconic shows".
"But it's his compassion and humanity that has helped us deliver these same stories with heart. We're truly going to miss him and look forward to being first in line to work with him as a producer."
Nancy Kanter, the executive vice-president for content and creative strategy at Disney Channels Worldwide and the general manager of Disney Junior Worldwide, says "Over the last 18 months as Adam and I have had a chance to work closely together I have learned more than I could have ever imagined about how to make smart, funny and heartfelt television for kids".
"He has been a guiding light and fount of truly limitless inspiration and knowledge. I look forward to continuing to have the opportunity to tap into his imagination for a long time to come."