Adam Bonnett is stepping down as executive vice president of original programming at Disney Channels Worldwide to pursue a career as a producer, he announced Friday.
Bonnett — who has been with the cabler for 21 years — will depart next month, with a replacement expected to be named in the next few weeks. The exec currently oversees Disney Channel and Disney XD’s live-action development, along with current original series and movies, and casting and talent relations for both channels. A replacement is expected to be named in the coming weeks.
“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,” Bonnett said in a statement obtained by TheWrap. “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.”
Bonnett’s career at the Disney Channel began in 1997. His career with the network is marked by developing series like “Wizards of Waverly Place,” “Hannah Montana,” “Good Luck Charlie,” “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody,” “The Suite Life on Deck,” “Sonny With a Chance,” “That’s So Raven,” “Lizzie McGuire,” “Even Stevens,” “The Proud Family” and “Kim Possible.” He has also overseen the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise for the last eight years.
Bonnett was promoted to his current role in 2013, previously serving as SVP original programming for Disney Channel.
“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,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide. “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.”