Pixar founder John Lasseter to leave Disney role after 'missteps' in wake of MeToo

The studio’s animation chief has worked on every Pixar release to date

John Lasseter is to leave Disney after “missteps” in his behaviour with staff members, the studio has confirmed.

The co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios and Disney’s current animation chief has been demoted to consultant but will step down fully at the end of the year.

This news comes after a six-month “sabbatical” which the 61-year-old undertook following claims that accused the figure of inappropriate workplace conduct in the wake of #MeToo. He issued an apology ”to anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of an unwanted hug” or for any act that made colleagues feel “disrespected or uncomfortable”.

“The last six months have provided an opportunity to reflect on my life, career and personal priorities,” Mr Lasseter said in a statement. “While I remain dedicated to the art of animation and inspired by the creative talent at Pixar and Disney, I have decided the end of this year is the right time to begin focusing on new creative challenges.”

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Mr Lasseter is the creative force behind every one of Pixar’s films. He directed Toy Story, Toy Story 2 and Cars as well as ensured the success of Disney films Frozen and Moana. He became chief creative content of Pixar as well as Disney Animation in 2006.

Disney chief executive Bob Iger praised Mr Lasseter – known for wearing Hawaiian shirts – following news of his departure, citing his vision and assembling storytellers and innovators “to set the standard in animation for generations to come”.

“John had a remarkable tenure at Pixar and Disney Animation,” Mr Iger said, ”reinventing the animation business, taking breathtaking risks, and telling original, high quality stories that will last forever. We are profoundly grateful for his contribution, which included a masterful and remarkable turnaround of The Walt Disney Animation Studios.”

Disney is yet to announce a successor to Mr Lasseter. Pixar’s next film, The Incredibles 2, will be released in the UK next month.

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