Disney appoints first CTO from Character.AI amid AI-driven media shift

Disney hired Karandeep Anand, former CEO of Character.AI, as its first Chief Technology Officer, effective October 2, reporting to CEO Josh D'Amaro. The move signals Disney's strategic pivot toward AI and technology integration across its entertainment and theme park operations, with several Character.AI technical staff expected to follow. This marks a notable leadership change as Disney adapts to AI-driven industry consolidation.