LOS ANGELES, June 9 Reuters Walt Disney Co Chief Executive Bob Chapek announced a major leadership shift on Thursday, promoting Dana Walden to chairman of general entertainment content as the company works to build its streaming television efforts.

Walden replaces veteran Hollywood executive Peter Rice, who is leaving Disney. Both executives joined Disney in 2019 when the company acquired entertainment assets from 21st Century Fox.

Sources who spoke with Reuters said Rice, who is wellregarded throughout Hollywood, clashed with Disney39;s senior leadership. His departure was, according to one, a long time coming. A source close to Disney said Rice was deemed not a right fit for the company39;s culture.

Rice did not respond to requests for comment.

The change was announced as Disney and other media companies battle to attract audiences with mustsee hits for their streaming TV platforms such as Disney.

In a statement, Chapek said Walden had a wellearned reputation for championing creative talent and developing programming that captures the cultural zeitgeist.

Walden had been serving as entertainment chair for Walt Disney Television. Her new role expands her oversight to include a broad range of programming for Disney39;s streaming outlets and cable and broadcast networks.

Under her leadership, the company had such hits as ABC39;s Abbott Elementary, the Hulu Original series Only Murders in the Building and the Onyx Collective39;s Academy Awardwinning documentary Summer…