Changes are brewing at Walt Disney Animation Studios as Jennifer Lee returns to direct and write the third and fourth 'Frozen' movies while Jared Bush of 'Encanto' takes over as CCO.
- September 21, 2024
AceShowbiz - The highly successful "Frozen" franchise from Disney is poised for further expansion, and significant changes are taking place behind the scenes. Jennifer Lee, former Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of Walt Disney Animation Studios, will be stepping down from her executive role to direct and write "Frozen 3". She will also co-write "Frozen 4" with Marc Smith.
Lee's transition marks a change from her previous declaration that she would not take charge of "Frozen 3". Her tenure as CCO since 2018 has included contributions to recent hits "Encanto" and "Raya and the Last Dragon". However, she is returning to her storytelling roots, having been the creative force behind the original "Frozen" film.
In a statement, Lee expressed her excitement, saying, "I am so grateful to Bob Iger and Alan Bergman for supporting my decision to return to filmmaking full-time." She emphasized the privilege of collaborating with the studio's talented artists and storytellers.
Meanwhile, Academy Award-winning "Encanto" filmmaker Jared Bush has been appointed as the new CCO of Walt Disney Animation Studios. Bush, who previously won an Oscar for "Zootopia" and served as a writer on "Moana", has an impressive track record in animation.
"Jared Bush is an incredible filmmaker and a talented executive," said Disney Entertainment co-chair Alan Bergman. "I am thrilled that he'll be taking the reins of this storied studio."
