HBCU Graduate Ayo Davis Named President of Disney Branded Television

Ayo Davis has been promoted to president of Disney Branded Television.

Davis, a graduate of Dillard University, succeeds Gary Marsh. For the past year, Marsh has served as president and chief creative officer of Disney Branded Television. Now, Marsh is stepping down to launch his own production company. He secured a multi-year deal with Disney General Entertainment to create content for the company’s streaming platforms. Marsh will end his 33-year tenure at the end of 2021.

Disney announced Davis’ promotion on September 23rd. Davis will report to the Chairman of Disney General Entertainment (DGE), Peter Rice.

“Ayo is a focused leader with impeccable creative instincts who’s excelled in every role she’s held at Disney,” Rice shared in a statement. “Her creative eye for talent has made a meaningful impact in front of and behind the camera, from iconic shows across our networks that were defined by their casting choices to building a roster of creative talent that will redefine family programming at Disney Branded Television. She’s the absolute perfect person to lead the team at a time they are broadening their remit to develop more family programming across streaming and cable distribution. I’m excited to watch all she will accomplish.”

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Disney Taps Ayo Davis as President of Disney Branded Television

Last year, Davis was appointed to the role of executive vice president of creative development and strategy under Gary Marsh. In her newly-created role, she oversaw programming for Disney Branded Television platforms such as Disney Plus and Disney Channel.

As the President of Disney Branded Television, Davis will oversee content programming for families, kids, teens, and tweens. She will be responsible for the strategy, development, and production of Disney XD, Disney Junior, and Disney Channel.

“I am beyond grateful to Peter Rice and Gary Marsh for their extraordinary leadership, support and mentorship,” added Davis. “It’s a tremendous honor to continue Gary’s legacy of delighting kids and families through Disney Branded TV’s unparalleled storytelling, and it’s an amazing time for kids and family programming.

Many people are thrilled to work with Davis in this new leadership role. While at Disney, she’s been able to create meaningful partnerships and attract high-caliber projects. She’s brought more diverse stories to the table and has strengthened the brand’s reputation. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Ayo has been making an impact at Disney for nearly two decades.

“We have been working with Ayo over the past year on scripted and unscripted series, and she’s second to none as a partner and collaborator,” says Chris McCumber, Blumhouse TV President. “She has impeccable taste, great creative instincts, and she’s a generous human being. Her new appointment is well deserved.”